Internship at Atlantic
Over the past few months, Jolien Wouters from the Thomas More University of Applied Science, Mechelen, Belgium has made the most of her internship at Atlantic. Not only did she make a very valuable contribution to the team but she also took a deep dive into life on the west coast of Ireland. In this post, you will gain an insight into what her stint here has meant to her in her own words:
“Galway is the ideal city for people who like a city-like feeling in a small environment. Everything you need is only a walk away: shops, pubs, restaurants, gyms…
While the city itself doesn’t offer an overwhelming number of activities, it’s the stunning natural surroundings that truly make Galway special.
Keep in mind that not everything is easily reachable by public transport, so renting a car is often the best way to explore. One example of the breathtaking nature near Galway is Connemara National Park.
As you drive into the park and see the sunlight reflecting off the mountains and shimmering on the lake, the landscape looks so surreal that it feels like a giant green screen—you feel like the main character in a beautiful, cinematic moment. Even the occasional traffic jam caused by sheep on the road adds to the charm and uniqueness of the experience.
Another highlight is the incredible Cliffs of Moher, located about two hours from Galway. Standing at the edge of a 120-metre-high cliff and watching the powerful Atlantic waves crash against the rocks below fills you with an indescribable rush of adrenaline. It’s a moment you won’t forget.
Life in Galway is quiet, slow-paced, and welcoming. The city is home to many communities from around the world, and people are always happy to help.
At times, I find myself needing more distractions than I do at home; I can feel lonely or bored more easily, but I think that’s a common part of any Erasmus experience. It’s also because your needs and routines shift when you’re away from home. It’s important to remember that while you might feel lonely at times, you’re never truly alone.
One of the biggest challenges of living in Ireland is managing your budget. The cost of living can be high, especially for students, and it requires careful planning. However, this challenge comes with a valuable lesson: it teaches you how to handle your finances, which is a crucial part of growing up and gaining independence. This is one of the many reasons why an Erasmus experience is so worthwhile: it helps you grow, become more self-reliant, and learn important life skills.
My internship at Atlantic has been an incredible opportunity that helped me discover the career path I want to pursue. Being a receptionist, there was far more than just handling paperwork—I was the first person students met, making that all-important first impression. I supported them with their needs, provided tourist information, and managed a variety of essential administrative tasks.
The school entrusted me with real responsibilities, which made me feel valued and respected. I wasn’t treated like a stereotypical intern, but rather as a member of the team. It was a supportive and welcoming work environment that I truly enjoyed being part of.”
We would like to thank Jolien for her outstanding work and hope she will come visit us soon :)!