Sheila Fernandez, senior Java developer at Fenergo, tells us why she chose Ireland as a place to live and work, and how easy it was to learn the Irish accent.
Where are you from?
I’m from Asturias, in the north-west of Spain. It’s rainy and green, just like Ireland, and very different from the idea of Spain that people usually have. However, I lived in Madrid for the last four years, much bigger, drier and with a stressful style of life that only big cities have.
How long have you been in Ireland?
I have been here since September.
Why did you move here?
The situation is Spain is not very good at the moment. Despite having really good jobs there, my partner and I thought it was time for a change.
What work do you do?
I am a senior Java developer. I’m in charge of developing a Java enterprise edition of an important piece of Fenergo’s application for investment banks and capital market firms, and introducing continuous integration in it.
How would you describe your working environment?
In Fenergo, there is a really great programme for people that have just joined the company. So from the very first moment you arrive, you have a really good impression of what they are doing and how they manage everything. Also, all my colleagues have shown to be hard workers and very nice people.
What do you like most about your job?
I like that my job is very challenging, and for the first time I have the freedom to input into the design of the enterprise solution, giving me the opportunity to learn and acquire deeper knowledge about JEE frameworks and technologies.
Was it difficult to adjust to living and working in Ireland?
Not really. Maybe at the beginning. It’s kind of difficult to rent a place but once you have that, it is quite easy to get used to living here. Irish people are really kind and welcoming.
What surprised you about moving to Ireland?
Honestly, it is just like what I expected. I might say that I thought it would be harder to get used to the Irish accent.
How does your working life help to make you feel at home here?
All my colleagues are really nice and welcoming and there is a really good working environment, so it helps a lot to make me feel at home. Fenergo ensures the teams work collaboratively so I get to meet a lot of different people from right across the organisation.
What do you like most about your adopted home?
That it is an unexplored zone for my partner and me, so we are planning to visit every part of the island. Also there are a lot of activities in the city and nearby, so we will never be bored.
