Hello,

I am Ryan Shindler, a rising junior at the University of Pittsburgh. I am currently pursuing a double major in Political Science and Psychology. My long-term goal is to attend law school after graduating from Pitt, and eventually work as a lawyer. While I know that most of the people attending this program are business majors, I have always cut against the grain by following my passion for politics. Though my formal decision to study politics is relatively recent, my interest in the field has been longstanding. From an early age, I found myself fascinated by the workings of American politics, and as I grew older, this interest only deepened. My enthusiasm is not limited to American politics alone; I find global politics and the political systems of foreign countries equally compelling. This broader interest is one of the main reasons why I am incredibly excited about my upcoming internship in Dublin. I will be working in the Dáil Éireann for Deputy Bernard Durkan TD, which is the lower chamber of the Oireachtas, the Irish Parliament. This internship presents a unique opportunity to immerse myself in the Irish system of governance and politics, providing a rich comparative perspective against the American system with which I am more familiar. During my time in Dublin, I aim to achieve several goals. Firstly, I hope to gain invaluable experience in a foreign policy system. Understanding how different countries govern and navigate political challenges is crucial for a well-rounded perspective in political science. I am particularly interested in observing how Irish politicians strategize, negotiate, and implement their policies. This hands-on experience will be instrumental in enhancing my understanding of political strategy and governance. Additionally, I am eager to absorb the nuances of the Irish political system. This includes learning about the legislative process, the role of various political parties, and the interaction between different branches of government. By comparing these aspects to the American political system, I hope to identify both the unique features and common challenges faced by both countries. This comparative analysis will be invaluable in my future studies and career. Moreover, I aim to connect with various Irish politicians and government workers. Networking with professionals in the field will provide deeper insights into how the Irish system functions and the day-to-day realities of working in politics. These connections could also lead to future opportunities and collaborations, further enriching my professional journey. I am super stoked to embark on this internship. It represents not only a chance to broaden my academic and professional horizons but also an opportunity to deepen my appreciation for global politics. I look forward to learning, growing, and sharing my experiences with my peers upon my return.

Personally, I am incredibly excited to experience living abroad, as I have lived my entire life in the state of Pennsylvania. Born and raised in Philadelphia, I have always had a deep appreciation for my home city. Its rich history and vibrant culture have shaped my identity. However, I also feel that it’s time to broaden my horizons and step outside my comfort zone. This sense of adventure is what led me to choose the Dublin program for this trip. While I have visited Ireland before with my family and enjoyed the experience immensely, living there for an extended period will be a completely different and enriching experience. I chose Dublin not only because of my positive past experiences but also due to practical reasons. Unfortunately, I can only speak English fluently, so for my first experience living abroad, I wanted to make the language barrier as manageable as possible. Ireland, with its English-speaking population, presents an ideal opportunity to immerse myself in a new culture without the added stress of a language barrier. This will allow me to focus more on absorbing the cultural, social, and political nuances of the country. During my time in Dublin, I hope to immerse myself fully in Irish culture. I plan to explore the city’s historical landmarks, enjoy traditional music and dance, and participate in local festivals and events. Engaging with the local community and learning about their customs and way of life will help me gain a deeper understanding of Ireland’s rich cultural heritage. This cultural immersion is an essential part of my goal to get the most out of this program. One of the aspects I am looking forward to the most is meeting new people. Since I do not know anyone prior to my participation in this program, I hope to make friends with both fellow Americans and Irish locals. Building these connections will not only enhance my experience but also provide me with diverse perspectives and lifelong friendships. I believe that interacting with people from different backgrounds and cultures will broaden my worldview and enrich my personal and professional life. My biggest personal goal for the program is to maintain a relaxed and open-minded attitude. Living in a new country will inevitably come with its challenges and surprises. However, I am determined not to stress myself out and instead go with the flow while I am abroad. I recognize that many things will be beyond my control, and it’s best to adopt a flexible mindset and roll with the punches. By embracing this attitude, I hope to make the most of every opportunity and enjoy my time in Ireland to the fullest. This program in Dublin represents a significant step in my journey of personal growth and global understanding. I am eager to embrace the adventures and learning experiences that lie ahead, and I look forward to sharing my journey with new friends and fellow participants.