My first week in Dublin has been one of the most memorable experiences of my life. I arrived on Monday, marking my very first time traveling abroad. As my plane landed, I felt overwhelmed by a mix of emotions: hope, joy, fear, excitement, and curiosity all at once. There were so many unknowns ahead of me, but as soon as I stepped foot in Ireland, I had a feeling everything was going to be alright.
One of the first things that stood out to me was the beauty of the country. From the vivid green landscapes to the energy of Dublin’s city center, there was something incredible to see everywhere I looked. Throughout the week, I began getting into the swing of things and exploring both the city and the surrounding areas.
One of my favorite experiences thus far was hiking along the Howth Cliffs with my new friends. The views of the sea were breathtaking, and it was unlike any landscape I had seen before. I also spent time exploring Dublin’s city center, experiencing the culture and lively atmosphere that make the city so unique. Another highlight was visiting Glendalough, which may have been the most beautiful place I have seen so far. I also had the opportunity to visit Kilkenny, a city rich with history and character that gave me an even deeper appreciation for the country.
While the places themselves have been incredible, my favorite part of the experience so far has been talking with local people. Every conversation seems to teach me something new about Irish culture, history, and daily life. Did you know that the Irish word for road is “bóthar”, which translates roughly to “cow trail.” Historically, cows naturally navigated hills by following the easiest contours of the landscape rather than moving in straight lines. As roads were developed and trees were cut down over time, many followed these same winding paths. As a result, rural Irish roads remain famously narrow and curving.
Another milestone this week was taking my first solo journey to Blackrock. While it is located relatively close to campus, it still felt significant because I navigated there entirely on my own. The experience gave me a sense of independence and confidence while also helping me feel more immersed in my new environment. Moments like these have made Dublin feel less like a place I am visiting and more like a place I am beginning to understand.
Next week, I will begin my internship at Basecamp, a specialist outdoor company focused on hiking, camping, and adventure travel with a strong emphasis on sustainability, quality, and real-world performance. Through this internship, I will be working within the outdoor recreation industry, which focuses on providing products, services, and experiences that encourage people to enjoy the outdoors.
To be successful in the outdoor industry, several key skills and strengths are necessary. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are important because professionals must understand customer needs, build relationships, and provide knowledgeable recommendations. Adaptability and problem-solving abilities are also essential, as outdoor businesses often face changing consumer trends, seasonal demand, and evolving environmental considerations. Additionally, a genuine appreciation for outdoor recreation can help professionals better understand the products, services, and experiences that customers value.
From a business perspective, analytical and financial skills are becoming increasingly important within the industry. Outdoor companies must carefully manage inventory, forecast demand, evaluate sales performance, and make strategic decisions to remain competitive. Understanding data, budgeting, and business operations allows companies to balance customer satisfaction with profitability while supporting long-term growth.
There are also competencies that may be especially important in Ireland specifically. Sustainability and environmental stewardship are highly valued, particularly within the outdoor industry, where businesses often emphasize protecting the natural landscapes that attract customers in the first place. Additionally, Ireland’s strong sense of community and relationship-building influences the way many businesses operate. During my first week, I have already noticed how friendly and welcoming people are, and how much value is placed on genuine conversation and personal connections. Developing cultural awareness, strong interpersonal skills, and an understanding of sustainable business practices will be important competencies as I begin my internship and continue learning about both the industry and Irish business culture.
As I reflect on my first week in Dublin, I am grateful for everything I have experienced so far. From navigating my first international journey to exploring Ireland’s landscapes, history, and culture, every day has brought something new to learn. This week has already challenged me to grow more independent and adaptable, and I am excited to see what lies ahead. With my internship beginning next week, I look forward to applying these experiences while continuing to learn about both the outdoor industry and Irish culture.
