Let’s hear from some of our International staff who have already made the move to Ireland.

Kulsoom Ghias, from India, Dietitian, Galway University Hospital

“My top tip for people moving to Ireland is to embrace the local culture and connect with the community. Irish people are known for their friendliness and warmth, so take the time to get to know your neighbours, join local clubs or organisations, and immerse yourself in the Irish way of life. It will greatly enrich your experience.”

Dr Zulfiqar Ali, ED Physician, Letterkenny University Hospital

“The culture is great in the hospital, both professionally and outside, socially. People are great, I just love it here. If you intend to raise a family, I would strongly advise that you come here and do it. I have two kids myself, five and two, and they go to school here. The schools are very multi-cultural. I do not feel alienated here at all. Once you come here, trust me, your heart will be conquered.”

Thandolwenkosi Moyo, from Johannesburg, South Africa, Staff Nurse, Tallaght University Hospital

“I advise overseas nurses to join African WhatsApp groups and Facebook pages to prepare for the whole process in order to succeed, it helps by knowing what you need and speed up the process. If you are moving from another country like I did, prepare for the RCSI exams or adaptation since the nursing background is totally different in Ireland. Doing this preparation in advance will give you a better idea what to expect and give you some confidence when you get here.”

Jakub Hlasny, from Slovakia, Lead Consultant Anaesthetist

“Everyone is very kind here and within a few months I knew I wanted to stay – for myself, for my personal development, my skills and my knowledge. It’s great here because I have a nice work-life balance. I have all the support I need. I can spend enough time with my family and still be passionate about my work. We have three kids, two at school. Their English level was very poor, just a few sentences. In four months, they can speak, they can understand English and they have a lot of new friends from different countries and cultures now.”

Biji Chandi, CNM 2, Tallaght University Hospital, from Kerala, India

“Ireland is home of endless beauty, dynamic culture with great people. Lots of freedom you are responsible and it is safe.

I made the move as I wanted a better life for both myself and my family. The education system is fantastic, make sure to register your children for school as soon as possible. Always make sure you carry a coat and umbrella!”

Christian Schael, from Germany, CNM3 Renal, Tallaght University Hospital

“Being from Germany I like clear structures and processes, Ireland in comparison is quite relaxed. I wish somebody had told me the true meaning of ‘you’re grand’ – it basically means ‘don’t panic, it will get sorted… eventually’. Be patient and don’t be too hard on yourself. Have a cup of tea, watch Father Ted (Irish TV show) and you will be grand. And don’t hesitate to ask for help if you’re stuck.”

Ashitosh Waidande, Clinical Nurse Manager 2 (CNM 2), University Hospital Galway (UHG), from India

“I joined University Hospital Galway in theatre in 2005, having completed my basic nursing training from Wanless Hospital College of Nursing in India. I worked in India for three years in a multi-speciality hospital. I arrived at UHG at an exciting time when the major theatre department was expanding its capacity and adding more surgical specialities. I have acquired a range of experience in theatre specialities like general surgery, urology, cardiothoracic surgery, vascular surgery, occasionally anaesthesia, and robotic surgery. During my time here I have completed a number of academic postgraduate courses. The most recent one is a higher diploma in perioperative practice through our academic partner NUI Galway and it was supported by UHG.”

Aoife Raja, from the United States of America, SHO, Midlands Regional Hospital, Portlaoise

“Ireland is a country full of culture, beautiful scenery, historic castles, amazing food, beautiful sense of community and much more. Working in Ireland has allowed me not only to strengthen my knowledge and skills as a physician, but also grow as a person due to the open and understanding nature of the society. When it comes to a work-life balance, Ireland is a country where one can easily attain a peaceful balance, thus allowing you to achieve happiness in all aspects of life. One will always have support on their workplace, whether from your team, consultants, and medical manpower.”

Matilda Regan, from Sweden, Clinical Skills Facilitator, University Hospital Kerry (UHK)

“I’m from Sweden but I’ve been living here for 13 years. It’s definitely a culture shock. I found everyone was so happy to see you, they wanted to know everything about you in detail. At home we wouldn’t care who you are. Everyone is so interested in your life here. I think I’ve become a much more open person. The first time I walked down the street I met an old man. He stopped me and said ‘oh you are new here’ and basically asked me my life story. But then I got to know that this is the whole culture here. I find now that everyone is so friendly and you just feel so much more connected to people. And I find that I want to get to know people. So yes, it has changed me. I’m not this ice-cold Swede anymore.”