E-Journal (25 Sep)

**this is for school purposes, but i decided to upload it anyway**

Embarking on this 10 weeks of internship in Athlone, Ireland has been great and I consider it as a once in a lifetime experience. Being my first ever overseas trip away from family for a long period of time and in fact my first experience on a plane, it has provided me with a new outlook to my life and the world.

First and foremost, these 2 weeks has taught me independence in terms of my weekly financial budgeting as well as taking care of my own well being. Back in Singapore, my parents would be the ones handling it. But still, I am managing well regardless if I am fasting. Fasting condition in Athlone seems to be less challenging than in Singapore. Probably it is due to the climate which makes me perspire less.

Although it may be a hassle to find Halal food, I have been coping fine. My survival strategy is to “play around” with what I have and “never say die”.

The weather in Athlone is definitely much colder than Singapore’s. However, it rains erratically similarly like Singapore. Initially, getting use to the temperature difference was a bit of a problem for me. In order to keep myself warm, I bought myself a thicker jacket and now, after 2 weeks has past, I am better adjusting to the cold rainy weather.

Secondly, for work, I am currently attached to the International Office of Athlone Institute of Technology (AIT). Tasks assigned have been manageable. Tasks ranges from creating an updated database of their students and universities arrangements records, attending to students’ enquiries, collecting post, fax overseas letters as well as bringing new students on a school tour.

Overall, these 2 weeks has taught me many valuable lessons. In fact, I have learnt more than I expected I would. I have learnt to be more confident, especially since I was interacting with the International students more often and being independent is essential as most of the time. Example: once tasks are assigned, I would be left alone to complete them without much guidance.

Another learning point is that, I have learnt to be more patient particularly since some of the International students had difficulties in speaking and understanding English.

I even discover that the working culture in AIT is different than in Singapore. The staffs are much more friendly and people-centered. They would go-all-out to attend to each student. My supervisor and colleagues would have a one-to-one meeting with the students to address their problems or concerns. Most importantly, the working environment is much informal and relaxed unlike Singapore where the lower position staff would rarely communicate or even lunch with their supervisors. In the office, I would address both my colleagues and supervisor by their first name and this has definitely ease in my adjusting to the foreign environment and feeling welcomed in AIT.

The terms, “perseverance and determination” are the best words to describe my experience in Athlone. I believe as long I have a strong determination and perseverance, I can get through these 10 weeks of internship regardless of any obstacles that I may face and so far, 2 weeks has past. Without doubt, I am looking forward for my next 8 – 9 weeks as I am enthusiastic in discovering more of Ireland during the weekends by visiting Dublin and Galway. Also, I am keen in joining the school tours to the other county in Ireland where aplenty opportunities of interacting with International students lies ahead. In all, I personally do not regret choosing Ireland as my OSIP choice as I am certainly enjoying my internship experience here in Athlone.