Philip Corrigan

Photos

Phillip was born and raised in Dublin City but was drawn to the west coast because of his love of the great outdoors. He has a Bachelor's degree in Multimedia from Dublin City University and is a videographer and photographer by trade. He loves working with our students teaching them video, and photography and helping them communicate through mixed media.

His passions are hiking, cycling, ocean swimming, and being creative. When he is not jumping in the ocean or taking photographs he can be found writing and performing music and busking in cities throughout Ireland outside of program time.

What is your favorite travel memory?

My favorite travel memory is exploring Morocco and discovering new music, landscapes, food, and cultures. Every day of the trip held a completely different adventure and it was never predictable.

I also enjoyed the freedom and excitement of traveling between Indonesian islands on a scooter for a summer.

How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?

I have definitely grown as a person working with the team and students at Irish Gap Year. I have a better understanding of group dynamics and pay attention to the different ways that each student learns and expresses themselves.

I have also learned a lot from my co-workers as we all have different passions and skills to bring to the table.

What is the best story you've heard from a return student?

I have heard many stories of how the Adventure and Leadership program and the Arts and Culture program prepared students for college. One student told me how they feel better equipped to move out of their parents' house to study and move in with people their own age. They felt much more confident with the day-to-day runnings of living independently.

If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?

I would do the European Expedition program as it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience with a great mix of travel, culture, history, and outdoor adventure.

Traveling by rail, road, yacht, and ferry from the north of Europe to the south all while building confidence and friendships would make for an unforgettable trip.

What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?

Irish Gap Year puts in a big effort to ensure that each student has the best experience possible and genuinely cares about their well-being. Before, during, and after the program, a great relationship is developed between the team and the students building trust, communication, and having many unique experiences and adventures.

I was especially proud of the team for dealing with the obstacles of Covid 19 so effectively, being flexible, organized, and keeping a sense of humor whenever a spanner got thrown in the works.

What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?

Good communication is key for a successful company. There is a great culture of respect between staff and students in Irish Gap Year, which encourages people to let their opinions be known and always feel listened to.

This keeps morale high and, most importantly, ensures everyone is having a great time.