Finally!
I have finally arrived in Dublin after the seemingly harrowing six hour plane ride from Philadelphia. I have never traveled alone internationally before, so this was definitely a nerve-wracking experience. I did not truly realize just how independent and alone I was until I said goodbye to my parents and they walked in the opposite direction. Just me, myself, and I along for this journey!
After collecting my luggage, I walked aimlessly around the taxi area scanning my surroundings, considering my next move. I watched as people courageously flagged down taxi’s, contemplating whether or not I was capable if I had to to the same. I was surprised when someone tapped on my shoulder asking me a question about where he was going. I scratched my head attempting to formulate a coherent answer, because I had no idea how to help, being confused as ever myself. It did not take long before we realized we were both headed to the same place–University College, Dublin. Narrowly escaping confusion, we put our heads together and conquered the taxi system, making it safely to UCD’s campus.
Since arriving at UCD early Monday morning, it has been roughly 1 1/2 days. I am gradually adjusting to my new environment, although I know the acclimatization grow easier with more time. Today all of the students gathered for an orientation meeting during which we discussed life in Dublin, safety protocols, transportation, and housing before talking about what we should expect in the early stages of our internships. It was exciting to be in one room with all of the other students participating in this program, everyone eager to embark on this new and unique experience.
Starting a week from today, next Tuesday, I will begin my internship with the Irish Catholic Newspaper, Ireland’s largest and best-selling religious newspaper. I anticipate a busy work environment, assisting my colleagues in research, interviews, proof-reading, and writing about various human interest features and their relation to the Church, the Dublin and larger Irish community, as well as the wider world. I am thrilled to have this opportunity to gain a wholistic and well-rounded experience in journalism as I can implement the skills that I will soon develop into my future career opportunities.
This journalism experience will require particular strengths and skills from me in order to succeed within this position. Unsurprisingly, I must demonstrate keen reading and writing skills. As a Creative Writing Minor, I have taken various extensive writing courses at Pitt that I believe have contributed to my preparedness for this position. I trust in the strength of my writing and attention to detail. I am genuinely excited to do any proofreading asked of me as well. My roommates during the fall and spring semesters will oftentimes come to me before submitting essays and papers, allowing me to proofread before submitting–and they know I love doing it.
Besides the obvious academic requirement of strong reading and writing skills, I will also need to demonstrate effective verbal communication skills. Journalism is centralized around gathering information, and then using either written or verbal communication skills to convey that news to a larger audience. It is crucial that I am able to articulate my thoughts, ideas, and concerns on a persistent basis with my Supervisor, colleagues, and potential interviewees in order to accurately and efficiently deliver the news. Journalism also calls for tremendous collaboration and teamwork. While some tasks I may complete solo, I anticipate working with a group of highly motivated individuals toward one common goal that is carrying out the mission statement of the Irish Catholic. Verbal communication skills will be especially crucial for me to assimilate to as jargon and verbiage differs here in Ireland than in the U.S. Irish people speak with accents, sometimes thick, that may be difficult to understand at times. I also may not initially comprehend certain jokes and jabs. It will be crucial throughout this internship to speak up for myself and ask questions. If I do not understand instructions, I must ask for clarification. We even discussed this in orientation today–how it will never hurt to ask someone to repeat themselves. I believe that this aspect will be especially challenging for me as I oftentimes do not choose to speak up for myself. That will have to change!
Tomorrow, I look forward to traveling to the office for the first time to discuss my role and expectations with my Supervisor. I am quite nervous, as I have never had professional experience quite like this before. But, I remain optimistic and open-minded. I know that this internship will be an incredible experience and I am excited to get started!