Skip

A temporary new home with urban flair and a rugged coast

20 Jan 2025

Three months in Dublin – a stay that not only expanded her horizons, but which also shaped her learning environment. Leandra Engels is doing her work placement with our company as part of a work-study programme in business administration and media and communications with a focus on communication management. Within the framework of a partnership between her university (DHBW) in Ravensburg and the Dublin Business School (DBS), she spent a semester in Ireland. She reports on her experiences, the progress she has made in English, Ireland’s relaxed culture, and the challenges she faces.

Leandra Engels

How did you end up spending a semester abroad, and why did you choose Ireland?

One of my biggest motivations was the opportunity to foster my personal and academic growth in a new learning environment. At the Business School in Dublin I was able to develop my English language skills while at the same time expanding my knowledge of the fields of business and media. The coursework covered a wide range of topics, including creativity, innovation, entrepreneurship, management and even camerawork.

In addition to the academic work, another key factor was my desire to escape from my daily routine. I wanted to use these three months from mid-September to Christmas 2024 to get to know new people, experience new things, and simply gain a new perspective on life. I’ve always been fascinated by Ireland, its unique culture and its magnificent landscapes. The thought of getting to know this country up close fascinated me.

Can you tell me three things that are better in Ireland than at home?

I have been impressed by the laid-back attitude of the Irish. People here approach everything calmly and with a sense of humour – they don’t let the craziness of daily life get to them. I also love how you are close to nature here: you can get out of the city and find yourself in the middle of untouched landscapes in a matter of minutes. A third thing is the amazing range of cultural activities on offer – I particularly appreciate the many live music evenings in pubs. The atmosphere they create is unbelievable. Ireland is a perfect combination of nature, culture and personal development, and it offers so much more than academic knowledge.

A view of the Cliffs of Moher
A view of the Cliffs of Moher

Is there anything that you are sure you won’t miss after you return?

Yes – Irish bread, or should I say, toast. I’m afraid they cannot compete with the variety of German bread.

Guinness, burgers or fish and chips: what were the culinary highlights for you?

My culinary highlight was definitely freshly caught fish. There is a little fishing village northeast of Dublin that has turned into a popular destination. It offers a chance to escape the city’s hustle and bustle and enjoy excellent fish on a little peninsula in an idyllic environment. In particular, fish and chips in this picturesque setting offered me an unforgettable culinary experience.

What were the highlights of your stay in terms of Ireland's natural beauty?

Dublin offers a fantastic combination of urban life and direct proximity to nature. Places like the cliffs on the Howth peninsula and the Wicklow Mountains are simply magical. I also visited the Cliffs of Moher, another great example of the natural variety offered by the Irish landscape.

A view of the Cliffs of Moher

The temple Bar in Dublin
The temple Bar in Dublin

Do you have a special tip for any of our colleagues who might like to visit Dublin – a particular landmark, restaurant, etc.?

Anyone who comes to Dublin absolutely must be sure to experience the pub culture. My personal tip: Sheehan’s, a lesser known yet very charming pub in the city centre. Every Sunday from 8 to 11 in the evening they offer outstanding live music – a mix of traditional Irish music and pub classics that reflects Dublin’s true soul. And those who are interested in the history of Irish beer should pay a visit to the Guinness Storehouse. This interactive exhibition not only provides some interesting insights, but its Gravity Bar affords breathtaking views of the city of Dublin.

The temple Bar in Dublin

leandra-engels-dublin-1900x1069-4

Different countries, different customs: what are some of the (cultural) differences that you have experienced in your new learning and working environment?

I have been particularly struck by the relaxed and friendly manner of the Irish. Be it in daily life or at university, they place a huge emphasis on personal dialogue, and the overall atmosphere is very relaxed. The work environment feels less formal, and that helps to create a good atmosphere for learning.

What do you think you will take with you from Ireland for your future career?
In Ireland they strike a good balance between hard work and relaxation – they show that it is possible to stay focused and work together in an atmosphere that is open. This has been a valuable lesson, and one that I will hold onto in my future career.

More articles from this category: