How a simple email led to a career in Ireland

My 4-Year Journey at NED College: From Student to Communication & Marketing Director

How I Got Here.

I had every intention of posting regularly about my experience at NED College, the English language school market in Ireland, marketing, leadership, and more.

However, I must admit that procrastination got the better of me, and I couldn’t maintain a consistent flow of posts.

But today, I’m finally back! And before I begin this second attempt, I decided to share a bit of my journey since joining NED.

Curious to know how it all started?

It’s a long story, but one I’m proud to tell.

And don’t worry, I’ll try to keep it short. Or at least give you some breaks along the way.

So, grab a coffee or tea, get a snack, and come along – I promise it’ll be worth it!

Back in February 2020, I was an English student at NED, eager to find my first job in my field here in Ireland. It was my first international experience, and the excitement was real!

One day, I decided to respond to a school newsletter with some positive feedback – nothing more than that. To my surprise, I received a response from Luna, the Marketing Manager at the time, thanking me for the kind words.

Naturally, I took the opportunity to introduce myself, share a bit of my professional background, and – of course – ask if there were any job openings.

While there weren’t any positions available then, Luna was kind enough to keep my resume on file, with some lovely compliments about my profile.

Fast forward to March 2020: I was searching for jobs online when I stumbled upon a vacancy at NED, precisely the role I had been looking for. Without hesitation, I applied for the position and emailed Luna expressing my interest.

Shortly after, I received a response thanking me, and a few days later, I was invited for my first interview.

Happiness and nerves were running high!

But, as fate would have it, things took an unexpected turn.

On March 12, 2020, the Irish government announced the closure of schools, universities, and other public spaces due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The result? The hiring process was put on hold.

Patience and perseverance became my new best friends.

On May 14, 2020, I sent Luna a follow-up email to check in on the situation. The next day, she responded with an update: unfortunately, the process needed to be paused due to the pandemic.

Life goes on! More patience, more hope.

During my wait for that dream job, I didn’t just sit around. I was preparing myself!

While waiting for the process to restart, I focused on studying and improving my English at NED College. I was determined to enhance my skills and make myself the best candidate possible.

At the same time, I worked in a warehouse to support myself.

So, I wasn’t just waiting, I was actively preparing and working to get closer to my goal.

July 7, 2020: I received another email from Luna! My eyes lit up. The country was slowly recovering, and the school had plans to reopen. I was invited for a second interview on July 13, the following Monday.

I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude!

The interview went well, and the next day, I was invited to complete the final step: the highly anticipated test.

But my patience was tested yet again.

I had to wait for Luna to return from her holidays to receive the final result.

And so, once again, I found myself battling anxiety.

But I held on to faith.

I completed the test, submitted it on time, and waited for a response.

A month passed, and still nothing...

August 24: I decided to send another email – persistence is key, right?

On August 25, 2020, I received a response:

We’re evaluating your tasks alongside other candidates; I’ll have a final answer by the end of the week.

AUGUST 26, 2020:

I got a phone call and then an email from Luna:

Welcome to the team!

It was afternoon, and I was at home. I was hit with a whirlwind of emotions – pure happiness, nerves, and excitement. All I could do was smile and thank her!

After such a long process, I had done it.

I made it!

September 1, 2020

My first official day as a Social Media Specialist & Social Activities Organizer at NED Training Centre - currently NED College. Yes, it was quite the title, but my joy was even bigger!

September 2024

Yes, this text has been sitting unfinished for quite some time. I’m only picking it up again now, after a long journey full of adventures.

A lot has happened, and time has flown by.

There’s been growth, learning, headaches. Sleepless nights, my mind buzzing with ideas in the middle of the night.

Evolution!

September 2024 marks four years of my time with NED College!

There have been many stages along the way, and many challenges too, but every step has been worth it.

Over time, I moved through different positions to get to where I am today.

I started as a Social Media Specialist & Social Activities Organizer, then became a Content Creator.

After that, I moved into Communication and Marketing Supervisor, then Manager, and finally, Director.

Imagine how much I’ve invested in myself to get here—countless hours of learning, adapting and growing in each role. Every step was essential for my development.

I invite you to check out my professional timeline at NED on my LinkedIn profile because it's about time I wrapped up this story.

I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to still be here today, for the professional I’ve become, and for the person I’ve evolved into.

Special thanks to some key people who were part of my journey at NED: Luna Cabeza Rieu , Sandro Rezende, Adriana Kawano , Kiko Ferri, David Russell and my brilliant Communication & Marketing team – everyone who has been part of this!

I remain committed to giving my best for the company’s growth, sharing what I’ve learned from life’s hustle, and contributing to the development of both people and leadership.

As our slogan says:

A new journey is (always) about to begin.