Internship Questions and Answers
This section deals with questions you may have, as a student, considering participation in an internship in another country or looking for more information about what exactly is involved in a foreign programme and what would be expected of you.
How will my employer behave towards me ?
• You will have a wonderful experience and make many new friends through your “colleagues” in your host company.
• Your work colleagues will treat you with every respect and they will understand that it will take you one or two weeks before you have the confidence to ask questions and feel like a member of staff.
• Internships Ireland specialise in offering internships to students from other countries so we understand exactly how you are feeling during the first week or two, so don’t worry.
• Everything will be great as long as you make the effort to speak in English and do your very best at all times.
Where are the internships located in Ireland ?
Currently most internships are located in Dublin, although we work with host companies across Ireland, so please let us know if you are interested in a particular town or region.
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What sort of internships are available ?
Internships Ireland offers placement programmes in most sectors such as; Administration, Marketing, Business Development, Market Research, Human Resources, Travel & Tourism, Banking & Finance and IT.
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Will I be paid for the internship ?
No, candidates participating in the Professional Internship Program will not be paid for the internship. It is a voluntary non-paid training period. However some host companies may offer to contribute towards your local transport costs and other host companies may decide to offer you additional benefits, but this is entirely at their discretion.
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If the work placement is not paid by the host company how can I finance my internship in Ireland ?
Trainees can ask for financial help or scholarships if they participate in an internship in Ireland. Please ask your tutor or internships advisor, in your University or College, how you can apply for financial assistance. Your program may qualify for the EU Funded Leonardo scholarship and/or other regional government backed grants.
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What kind of hours will I be working ?
We would advise you to do the same working hours as staff in the company, which is usually from 09.00- 17.30 Monday to Friday with one hour for lunch.
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What type assignments will I be given ?
This will be based on your capability to assimilate and learn new material, your level of English, and your general enthusiasm for getting involved in various different projects. The more open minded and focused you are, the more responsibility you are likely to be given. You are there to learn, work along with the permanent staff and assist them in their daily tasks.
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Can I expect an interview by the host company ?
Yes, most likely. As you are probably based outside Ireland at the time of your application, most companies opt for a telephone interview to ensure your level of English is sufficient and find out a little about your background. It is also an opportunity to explain what will be expected of you and for you to ask you a few questions in return.
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What happens if I am not happy with my internship ?
Firstly try to explain your concerns to your manager as it may be a simple question of readjusting your work responsibilities or other internal matters. Alternatively, we at Internships Ireland will become involved with the host company and yourself to try and find a solution to the situation so you can successfully complete your internship. However, if a satisfactory resolution is not achieved, we will endeavour to locate a new internship for you.
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Can my host company sack me ?
Yes, however, only in extreme circumstances would this happen and typically only in the event of gross misconduct. Internships Ireland would be obliged to formally interview both the host company and yourself as to establish the reason for the dismissal and report back to your academic institution after which a decision would be made to offer you a new internship or not.
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What clothes do I need to bring for the placement ?
You need to bring smart formal clothes for your placement. Jeans and trainers are not allowed. You should bring a few neat, well presented shirts, trousers and shoes. Females should also bring reserved skirts and males should bring at least one tie.
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How much does it cost to do an internship ?
Our internships service at Internships Ireland is very affordable compared to the cost of enrolling in other educational programs and the results can be invaluable in the successful continuation of your studies and further career. Please contact us via email or phone for a specific price.
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How do I sign up ?
Please apply by using our online registration form or ring us for further instructions.
How to find out more ?
For more information contact Internships Ireland by email or call +353 1 8395546. You can also register your interest online now and we will contact you by return.