Intern Abroad in Ireland with AIFS Abroad

I first came across AIFS' Summer Internship Program in Galway through my school's study abroad portal and immediately thought the program looked too good to be true. Between the catered internship placement, the provided housing accommodations, and supportive staff planning incredible-looking group excursions, I thought that there had to be a downfall. I could not have been more wrong!

I chose to apply for their program in Galway because of the opportunity to explore an English-speaking country that had opportunities for an internship in my major (psychology). The program coordinator, Karen, did an amazing job helping me get placed with an internship in my field of study, planning tons of super fun group outings (Irish dance class was one of my favorites), and being a reliable source of support throughout the eight weeks. Even before the program started in early June, the pre-departure staff worked seamlessly to help my family and I prepare for this big adventure. AIFS took care of everything - from transportation from the airport, setting up housing accommodations (where everyone had their own room and bathroom), working to find the best internship placement for every individual student, and - as I said before - planning 10+ group outings for us to experience as a group of new friends.

This summer, I made 30 new friends that I otherwise never would have crossed paths with and still talk to them to this day (almost two months post-program)! I gained so much confidence navigating a new city by myself, making so many new friends, expanding my professional network, and learning about a new culture. There were definitely ups and downs, as the jet lag and initial nerves about being with a big group of new people did get the best of my emotions at first, but after opening myself up to new experiences and talking to new people, I learned that we were really all in the same boat.

I'd recommend AIFS Abroad to anyone looking to push themselves to grow in a supportive environment, wants to meet amazing new people, and explore the world!

I chose AIFS because I liked the amount of guidance they offered while abroad, compared to other companies my university partnered with. I chose the Dublin, Ireland program, and felt supported by staff when debating which internship would be the best fit for me. One of my favorite experiences was the Causey Farm trip, which was planned by AIFS. It was a great way to get close to my roommates (there were eight of us total), and it was a great way to experience Irish music, dance, food, and landscape. I became very close with my roommates after that trip, and am confident that I have made some lifelong friends in them. I'd recommend AIFS to anyone who wants to live or intern abroad, but is intimidated by the idea of doing it alone.

I interned abroad in Galway, Ireland in the summer of 2024. AIFS provided me with lots of services and support, which is why I chose to go abroad with them. AIFS provided me with a lot of support during the interview process. They arranged my interviews for me. They also provided me with a service to learn about my top five strengths and how they can help me during my internship. During my program, AIFS provided me with a location coordinator. She was super helpful! She answered any questions and assisted me in any way she could. I also was not alone during my internship. I had about 20 interns in my program. Having other interns provided me with a great community and friendships. AIFS arranged my housing and provided lots of different excursions. AIFS was super helpful and made my experience great!

Interning in Galway was the best thing I ever chose to do! As a social work major I never thought I would have the opportunity to work abroad because social issues are different based on countries and regions. However, AIFS was able to guarantee a position for me in a Domestic Abuse Service through COPE Galway where I was able to use my knowledge from the U.S to help those in need in Ireland. There was not a social worker in the service, so I was able to bring a different perspective that worked really well in the environment. Even though our two countries have differences I was able to use those to my advantage and gain a wonderful experience working abroad that I can take with me in my future practice. If you are thinking about Interning but not sure that it will work with your major, don't worry! The staff is willing to work with you and find a program that fits you best, but if Galway is on your mind they have SO many options and I know you will find your fit.

Best of luck!

Where do I even begin?! Galway is, hands down, my favorite place ever! The city isn't crazy & chaotic, like Dublin & London, but still exciting, beautiful & lively. People are performing music all over the streets all hours of the day, which adds a perfectly authentic vibe. The pubs are so much fun and the shops are cute to shop around in. The Tiny Traders Village on the weekends was also great if you're like me & enjoy buying from local crafters! The nightlife is great! There's not many clubs, but the pubs are amazing and so much fun anyway, so I didn't mind missing out on clubs. Additionally, the locals are some of the kindest & most welcoming people ever! I never had a single bad interaction with anyone!

Galway's location advisor, Karen, is also amazing! She is so fun to hang out with, and so helpful all of the time. There's nothing you can't talk to her about. She is so welcoming & loving, which really helped with my homesickness.

I was also able to do traveling on the weekends around the day trips Karen planned for us (Aran Islands & Connemara)! I was able to solo travel to London & the Cliffs of Moher, as well as going on group trips to Edinburgh, Scotland & Nantes, France. While the distance to a nearby airport isn't the best, it really isn't that big of a deal & honestly adds to the experience.

I would recommend Galway to absolutely anyone. If you want a TRUE Irish experience, choose Galway! I had the best summer of my life here, and I'm so sad it went by so fast! However, I fully intend to come back upon finishing my degree to turn Galway into my permanent home. :)

PS - when you come here, go to Salthill beach & jump off the diving board!! So much fun!

Studying abroad in Galway was the best experience of my life. If you are looking for a beautiful, charming and fun city to live in, you've found it in Galway. This city is now my favorite place in the world and I tell everyone I meet that they have to go at some point in their lives.
The program itself was such a great experience and helped me grow both professionally and personally. The internship I was placed into was perfect for what I needed I learned so much from my supervisor. Additionally, the friends and connections I made while in Galway will last a lifetime.

Also, the location coordinator, Karen is the best and will make your experience abroad endlessly better.

I can't imagine going anywhere else! Galway is truely such a unique and amazing city with so many places to go and things to see. I really think that the small town vibe of the city made me love it even more as I really knew my way around the city after the first couple of weeks. My program also had around 20 people, which meant that we all got to know each other very well and we all became close friends. I also loved my internship placement and thought it was a perfect fit for what I was looking for!

I absolutely loved my experience in Galway! It's such a unique place to study abroad in and I am so grateful I chose this location. My internship placement was so amazing and I was excited to go to work everyday. Exploring the city with other interns in the program was so much fun and the city is so welcoming and safe. The group is usually smaller here which helped me create close relationships with the other students. I cannot recommend this location and program enough. The program staff, Karen, is awesome! I promise you will love it here!