Freie Universität Berlin

My internship at the UCD Psychosis Lab was an incredibly enriching and inspiring experience. From the very beginning, I was warmly welcomed into the team and had the opportunity to actively contribute to various research projects. The atmosphere in the lab was not only professional but also highly collegial, which significantly enhanced my learning experience.

During my internship, I had the opportunity to participate in a poster presentation, which provided me with valuable insights into scientific communication and the presentation of my work. Additionally, I was regularly involved in postgraduate seminars, which helped me deepen my theoretical knowledge and engage in discussions with other early-career researchers.

Another highlight was my involvement in two systematic reviews, which allowed me to gain valuable experience in literature research, data analysis, and academic writing. I particularly appreciated the close collaboration with PhD colleagues, who not only shared their expertise but also created a supportive and motivating learning environment.

The University College Dublin (UCD) impressed me with its excellent infrastructure and open, academic atmosphere. Dublin, as a city, offers a perfect mix of cultural and academic opportunities, making my stay even more enjoyable. The city is beautiful and offers plenty of nature—from green parks to breathtaking coastal landscapes that are perfect for excursions and relaxation.

I was particularly positively surprised by the weather in Dublin. If you are used to Berlin’s climate, you will find Dublin’s weather quite pleasant. The weather changes frequently, which is something I appreciate as even after a rain shower, the sun often comes out again. Most importantly: the sky is not grey the whole time as in Berlin.

However, there are also some challenges in Dublin. The public transport system is not very well developed, so I bought a bicycle on my first day to be more flexible. Additionally, rent is very expensive, but I found a good solution by paying a fee to Hosting Power, which helped me secure a nice place to stay. Another issue is that many Irish houses, like those in England, are poorly insulated. If the heating is not strong enough or the room is not well insulated, it can get quite cold—something to keep in mind when looking for accommodation.

If you visit Dublin, you should definitely explore the surrounding areas. Highly recommended are Howth, a beautiful peninsula with spectacular cliff walks, as well as Bray and Wicklow, which offer fantastic hiking and nature experiences. A trip to Galway or the Cliffs of Moher is also absolutely worth it.

What stood out to me the most was the Irish people. They are incredibly friendly, helpful, and open. Whether at university, in cafés, or on the street, I always had warm and relaxed conversations. Their openness makes it very easy to feel comfortable in Dublin and to quickly make new connections.

Overall, my internship at the UCD Psychosis Lab was an amazing experience that helped me grow both academically and personally. I would have stayed longer if I had more time and I am sure I will return.

Tips for other Interns

Visa Application

Not necessary

Apartment Search

Draft.ie or Hosting Power (for the latter you pay a fee but you are guaranteed a place)

Insurance

DAAD (38€ per month)

Telephone-/Internet

Not necessary if you have a EU-wide tariff

Bank/account

Not necessary as you can pay everywhere with the girocard without any additional fees