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Esther’s Internship in Ireland: Social Work, Culture & New Connections
CATEGORY: Internship - Social Work
COUNTRY: Ireland
READING TIME: 5 minutes
Esther, a passionate social work student specializing in elder care, spent three transformative months interning at a care home in Ireland. Her journey was filled with personal and professional growth, meaningful connections with the elderly, and a deep dive into Irish culture—from cozy pub nights to scenic coastal adventures.
Yes, I am 30. After many disappointments and rejections regarding my wish to do an internship abroad because of my age, my dream finally came true. It was important to me to go abroad before finishing my bachelor's degree. Ireland was recommended to me, and it turned out to be the best decision.
My work abroad
I am studying Social Work with a specialization in working with older adults. Initially, it was challenging to find a suitable internship in this field. However, a local placement organization in Ireland was able to help me secure a position. Eventually, I ended up at a care home, not in nursing but in a department responsible for organizing various leisure activities.
I truly thrived in this role and was able to deepen my specialization. Working with older adults is very close to my heart, and this internship brought me closer to my goal of working abroad.
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An image by Esther of the St. Patrick's Cathedral
Leisure and time off during my internship abroad in Ireland
Besides work, I thoroughly enjoyed my free time in Ireland. The nightlife, the pubs, and the cheerful people left a lasting impression on me. Some highlights of my stay included exploring the Howth peninsula and visiting the “Wonderlights” in Marlay Park.
Spending time with my colleagues after work also contributed to making me feel at home quickly. I met many wonderful people and enjoyed every single day in Ireland.
The time went by far too quickly, but I was able to gather so many impressions and learn a lot about another culture. The entire process of placement and organization went smoothly, and I felt very well supported throughout.
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Ireland's magical coastline)
Dublin's famous city centre near the Temple Bar
My irish host family
My host mother was an incredibly kind person, and we got along very well. She was always there to help me with any questions and gave me great tips for trips and hidden gems to visit. I lived in a shared-living arrangement at her house, taking care of myself. However, we sometimes shared meals and talked about our days.
Conclusion of my internship in Dublin
For everyone who thinks it’s too late to try something new at 29 or 30 years old: it’s not! I’m so glad I didn’t give up and seized the opportunity to do this internship. Even though I couldn’t go to Australia because my internship wasn’t mandatory and I participated in a European program, I was supported and encouraged by my university.
This decision allowed me to learn so many new things and strengthened my desire to work abroad.
My advice to future interns: Meet new people, take as many photos as possible, and don’t schedule your bachelor’s thesis deadline right after returning home.
Wishing you all a wonderful experience.
Written by Esther from Germany (Intern in Ireland with StudentsGoAbroad)
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