J-1 Experiences: Matthew Cosgrave
J-1 Hopeful for Career Changing Experience
Matthew Crosgrave, a recent graduate from the National University of Ireland, Galway, has found it easy to “slide into home” both in Boston and the biotechnology industry as he begins his J-1 year.
Following many years as a chef in Dublin, Matthew approached our team hoping to obtain a J-1 visa after going back to school to pursue Plant and Agricultural Biosciences with the ultimate goal of a career change. We at Rian, of course, enthusiastically agreed to sponsor his visa and welcomed Matthew to Boston just last month and continue to support him in finding work as he pursues this new path.
Early into his J-1 experience, Matthew Cosgrave looks forward to obtaining opportunities in the Biotechnology industry. The industry is booming in Boston, so Matthew was extremely excited to start his year to advance his knowledge and experience in Biotechnology. Matthew is specifically interested in working in food and sustainable agriculture. He was also excited to spend time in a U.S. city where he can experience a different culture.
Matthew graduated from National University of Ireland, Galway this summer and knew he wanted to apply for the J-1 visa. He explained that he thought Boston would be both a great hub for his specific major. His enthusiasm transferred to his application. He said he went “overboard” preparing to apply for the visa. The work he did beforehand made the application quick and easy, and made it easy for Rian to accept. This enthusiasm continued when he found out his visa was accepted. He wanted to arrive in the U.S. with a head start in finding an internship. One big aspect of this was being prepared for interviews. He acknowledged that the first few interviews were a little bumpy. So, he was glad he started doing preparation before his arrival in the United States. After he completed the initial interviews, he became much more confident in his own experience and ability to interview well.
He was extremely motivated because he believes that working in the United States sets him up to work almost anywhere in Europe. This is a huge advantage of the visa. As he’s in the process of getting an internship at a biotech startup company, he thinks the experience of working at a startup will give him a big advantage in the European job market. He noted that this industry was filled with connections, and he wants to utilize these connections to the best of his ability. By working at a startup, Matthew believes that he might not have one expected and specific role but will be able to learn more through different experiences within the startup.
When discussing the work environment that he’s encountered so far, he’s found a supportive place in the biotech industry in Boston. He notes that many people are “open and willing to help” which is a major advantage when temporarily moving to a city abroad. His first few weeks have been busy and great. He’s been getting all of his documentation planned and has continued to seek work. As he fills out his last few forms for his internship, he’s excited about his placement and to start work. He’s been doing his work at different hotspots around Boston. He loves going to coffee shops and also has been taking advantage of the Boston Public Library. The Public Library has become one of his favorite places in the city and he thinks it’s an amazing supportive place for all different kinds of people to convene in Boston.
As he looks to the rest of his year in the United States, he’s hoping to visit his sister in St. Louis for Thanksgiving, New York City and also would like to visit some National Parks out West if time allows. He’s also excited to go to different sporting events and has even inquired about joining some friendly Boston hockey leagues.