After spending my first week in Dublin, I can already feel myself starting to settle in and get the hang of navigating the city. I’m gradually getting better at understanding how everything works here, from mastering the bus system to picking up on local social norms. The initial couple of days required some adjustment, mostly due to the significant differences from what I’m used to back home, but I’m quickly catching on and trying to make the best out of it.

I’ve had the pleasure of meeting a lot of amazing new people, and I’m really excited to continue expanding my social circle. So far, we’ve been introduced to Gaelic sports, which was an incredibly fun and unique experience. We also took some fantastic trips to Glendalough, Kilkenny, and Bray. Exploring these places has been a great way to learn more about Irish culture and history. In addition to our excursions, we’ve also been trying out various spots in Dublin’s city center. From the cafes to the pubs, there’s always something new and interesting to discover. I’m looking forward to many more adventures and to continue immersing myself in everything Dublin has to offer.

However, now that the first week is over, it is time for me to start my internship and figure out a new schedule. Even though the first few days have been really fun, my internship is the real reason for my trip to Dublin and I am hoping that I will get a lot out of it. My company is called the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland, (RCSI), which is a company that deals with medical education and training in Ireland and abroad. It was founded in 1784 to train surgeons, and it is now one of the oldest educational and professional institutes that helps train undergraduates and postgraduates in the healthcare professions. It also includes a research institute that is one of Ireland’s leading research centers. They also have educational fields in Radiology, Dentistry, Sports & Exercise Medicine and the school of Postgraduate Studies. 

As for the industry I will be working in, my work will be centered around the finance and accounting fields. The official name for my position is called the “Finance Team Intern”, and my main jobs will include financial reporting in preparation for funding agencies, grants assistance, and balance sheet reconciliation support. I am very excited to be doing this work and I feel as if it will prepare me well for any finance or accounting jobs in the future. Jobs in these industries are currently very much in need, and these fields are so important for every single company. 

To be successful in the finance and accounting industry, several key skills and strengths are crucial to have. First off, strong analytical skills are important for interpreting financial data and financial reporting, which are big parts of my responsibilities. Attention to detail is also critical, as even small errors can have consequences. Additionally, being skillful in various accounting software and financial tools is important for efficiency and accuracy, such as using excel or a balance sheet. Good communication skills are always good to have when trying to explain financial information clearly to clients or colleagues. Furthermore, a solid understanding of financial regulations and standards is needed for compliance in all financial matters. Lastly, time management and organizational skills help in managing multiple tasks and deadlines, which is often required in this fast-paced industry. 

To be successful in the finance and accounting industries in Ireland, I found when researching that several competencies unique to the country are particularly important and somewhat different in Ireland’s market. First of all, a deep understanding of Ireland’s tax laws and regulations is crucial, as the country’s tax system can be quite specific. Familiarity with Irish financial reporting standards, which may differ from those in other countries, is also important. Additionally, being knowledgeable about the European Union’s financial regulations is beneficial, given Ireland’s membership in the EU and its implications for financial practices.

Overall, I am very excited to start my internship tomorrow and to learn more about the finance and accounting industries. I think it is crucial to get some experience outside of the classroom in order to figure out what you want to do and to help prepare yourself for what’s to come after school. I am confident that this internship will prove to be useful and very helpful in the long run, and I look forward to developing the skills that will make me be successful in these fields.