New York or Nowhere: Ciara McCabe’s Unforgettable J-1 Journey
“It’s New York or Nowhere.” For many, this statement rings true, and for Ciara McCabe, an Irish graduate on Rian’s J-1 program, it’s especially poignant. “I never want to leave,” she shared with us as she wrapped up her year in New York this September.
Following the completion of her Bachelors in Communication, Advertising, and Marketing at Ulster University, Ciara set off to the Big Apple. Due to her hard work, she was able to find a job quickly at a global knowledge services company working in their marketing department. Interestingly, the company also has offices in Dublin which was a comforting connection for Ciara, offering her ties to home despite being so far away.
With a view of the Empire State Building, her office environment was hard to beat. Working with mostly Americans, Ciara was “given a real insight into corporate America” which she has always heard a lot about. She is positive that her experience in the States will help her in the future and notes that her job offered her the opportunity to try a variety of roles within the scope of her degree and position, which she was grateful for.
Beyond her professional growth, Ciara fully embraced the New York lifestyle. From after work drinks on Thursdays to running the Brooklyn Half Marathon, she loved every season the city had to offer. Her weekends were packed with adventures, exploring nearby cities like Boston and Philadelphia, and even flying off to Nashville and Florida on those longer weekends.
Despite the excitement, she acknowledges the bittersweet feeling of homesickness that comes with being so far from home. It “helps you feel less homesick”, she explains, highlighting her love for the Irish community in Woodlawn, where she lived and the local ladies GAA team, O’Donovan Rossa, which she joined. It “has been great for making friends and getting into a routine out here”, Ciara adds.
As for support from Rian, “anytime I had a question, they got back really quickly” Ciara explained. Even small questions, they were always prompt to respond which was great to be able to rely on. Ciara offers practical advice for future Rian J-1s: “say yes to everything from the start”. She encourages future visitors to put themselves out there, embrace opportunities, and not stress too much about job hunting. “If you put in the work, you will get one” Ciara commented when discussing her own job search experience.
As Ciara prepares to return to Ireland, she recognizes the challenges that may come with adjusting back to a slower pace of life. However, she leaves with memories, friendships, and skills that will undoubtedly shape her future. “I fit ten years in one year”, Ciara reflected, encapsulating the whirlwind of her J-1 experience.