Living the Chicago Dream: Bradley’s J-1 Graduate Visa Experience
Bradley Walsh had aspirations to live in Chicago even before graduating from the National College of Ireland. He said, “I had never been to Chicago, but heard great things and I always wanted to go”. The Rian J-1 Graduate Visa Program allowed the perfect opportunity for him to live out his Chicago dream. Where many Irish graduates stay in Ireland after completing their degrees, Bradley noted that “I wanted to step out of my comfort zone and challenge myself”. Even further, he decided to go to Chicago without knowing anyone stating “I wanted to go by myself and see what I was capable of”. With this in mind, the J1 Graduate visa was a “no brainer” for Bradley.
Bradley’s application process was very smooth as he already had experience with obtaining a visa through the J1 summer visa program. Although he noted “Rian made the application process a lot easier this time around”. The process was very straightforward and “everyone at Rian was really helpful” especially our Program Director, Jude Clarke who “was available to help when I needed”. Upon arrival to the US, Bradley made his own luck and seamlessly transitioned to living in Chicago. “There is a huge Irish community in Chicago, I got involved in Irish networks right away which was helpful for meeting people”. He explained through his connections he easily found accommodation and a roommate to live with.
Bradley also used his network to secure his position as an Inside Sales Junior Associate at EOS IT Management Solutions, a global tech company headquartered back home in Co Down. While Bradley explained that the job search was stressful at the beginning, using the Irish network in Chicago helped immensely, “I would go to Irish organizations and network in person…I was there so much everyone knew me”. As he made more and more connections, the job search became easier. He said “I had three job offers…I met my current employer, EOS, through the Irish network and I was hired”. When describing his job, Bradley said “I support multiple accounts in the US and progress them internally and externally…I communicate with clients, engineers, and do a lot of coordination”. Working with clients like Coca Cola and Harley Davidson has been “very rewarding” for him. Bradley talked glowingly about his experience so far, “I really enjoy it, I wanted to work for a company that supports my career development really well, there is really good progression within the company”. Bradley will have the amazing opportunity to continue his work with EOS back in Ireland.
Outside of work, Bradley made the most of his time in Chicago. He got to know the city by frequenting Irish pubs, especially for trivia nights, going to the lakefront, trying new restaurants and playing recreational soccer. He said “Every week I am going to something new”. Bradley exclaimed “I love Chicago, I think it’s the best city in America especially for young people”. He especially enjoyed the weather, “It gets cold in the winter but I like having the four seasons” although “summers are the best”. One thing that surprised him was that “everyone is very friendly and down to earth and look after each other”. While Bradley spent most of his time embracing Chicago, he spent a week in Austin for work and traveled locally to Milwaukee and to the University of Notre Dame for a football game. Before his time in the US is up, Bradley will be visiting Virginia and North Carolina, even attending a wedding!
As Bradley’s time on the J1 Grad visa comes to an end, he reflected on his time so far. He said the best part of his experience has been “all of the people that I have met” and noted “my job has been very rewarding”. Overall, he feels a sense of accomplishment, “I did it all on my own, I’m fulfilling my dream of living in Chicago and it has all worked out.” Professionally, Bradley says “I have developed professional skills I will take with me throughout my career”. For Bradley, the J1 graduate visa has been life changing, “I came out of this experience with a job, tons of friends, it’s the best choice I could have made”. When asked if he had any advice for future Rian J1 program participants, Bradley highly recommended the experience and emphasized “there is a limited chance to do it, you’ll have a big competitive edge going back to Ireland and building your resume”. With his remaining time on the visa, Bradley plans on enjoying every day he has left in Chicago and making the most of all the city has to offer. Rian is so glad Bradley has had such an amazing experience on his J1 graduate visa and wishes him the best of luck back in Ireland.