Elena, Museum Intern in Ireland

Elena, a Museum Intern in Ireland, spent two months living and working in Dublin. We asked her to share some insights into how her internship went.

Where did you intern in Ireland?

I worked in a print and art gallery in the Dublin city center, where I assisted the manager and director with daily operations. My tasks included managing inventory, checking and cataloguing prints, assisting customers with sales, preparing shipments, sending exhibition invitations, and creating promotional materials, such as posters. I was also involved in organizing exhibition openings, helping with planning, setup, and communication. Overall, I supported all the key activities that keep a gallery running smoothly.

What motivated you to choose this museum internship abroad?

I chose this program because I wanted an international experience that was professional rather than academic. I strongly believe that working abroad is one of the best ways to step out of your comfort zone, challenge yourself, and truly discover your abilities. Being in a completely different environment from my everyday life pushed me to grow both personally and professionally.

Do you have any favorite memories from your time in Ireland?

One of the biggest highlights of my experience was the relationship I built with my colleagues and my supervisor, who was also the gallery director. We created a work environment that was both friendly and professional, where my ideas were valued, and I was included in discussions and decision-making processes just like the rest of the team. From my very first day, I was encouraged to share my opinions honestly, which made me feel respected and confident.

Another unforgettable moment was the opening day of an exhibition that I helped organize and install. That day, I met the artist whose works were being displayed and had the chance to speak with many visitors from all over the world. I connected with people working in the field I hope to enter one day and received so much advice for my career that it became a meaningful networking and learning experience. It was definitely the best day of my two months at the gallery.

How well do you feel World Endeavors handled setting up your internship?

World Endeavors supported me throughout the entire process of finding an internship abroad, carefully matching me with a position in Dublin that aligned with my interests, academic background, and career goals. They didn’t just place me in a company: they made sure it was the right fit for my skills and aspirations. They also prepared me for interviews, boosted my confidence, and provided constant guidance before and during the internship. Knowing they were always available for questions or concerns made me feel supported and secure throughout the whole journey.

What practical experience did you gain as a museum intern in Ireland that you can take with you into the future?

This internship confirmed that I want to pursue a career in the artistic and museum field.  It gave me first-hand insight into how such institutions function. I learned about internal dynamics, exhibition planning, event organization, and daily operational tasks. These are practical skills that will be extremely useful in my future career.

Experiencing the work environment directly helped me understand that this is truly the path I want to follow. Rather than just an idea, it has now become a clear goal, and this experience played a decisive role in shaping that certainty.

On a personal level, this experience taught me that I am capable of adapting and succeeding in a new environment, such as a foreign city. Working abroad gave me confidence in myself and showed me that I have what it takes to face challenges independently. Professionally, I learned the right attitude, communication style, and level of professionalism required in the artistic and museum sector.