My name is Gabriel Ferreira Pinto. I have a degree in Chemistry from the Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU). I came to Ireland as soon as I finished my undergraduate degree. After several searches of possible exchange destinations I chose Ireland for the feasibility of studying English and working. The initial planning was to stay only 1 year, but renewed for two more years. In 2012 when I came my English student visa was 1 year. After 3 years as an English student, to continue on the Island I would have to renew with a postgraduate or undergraduate degree. As the value of a post was very high in my area I decided to return to Brazil to do a master’s degree. I returned to Brazil in 2015 and spent my master’s degree at the Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU). It was very difficult to get used to life in Brazil, since when I came back I looked for ways to return to Europe. I then went after my Italian citizenship right. In March 2019 I was recognized as an Italian citizen, so I decided to go back to Ireland to look for a job in my area.
When did you arrive in Ireland and how long did you stay?
As an English student from 2012 to 2015. I moved back in May 2019 as a European to look for chemistry jobs.
What do you think of the lifestyle of the cities where you have lived?
I lived for 3 years in Dublin. Dublin’s biggest problem is the cost of living. By the time I lived there it was difficult to get accommodation, nowadays it is much worse. Nevertheless, I was very fond of living in Dublin. It is a city with many job opportunities. Dublin is a city with many things to do with various parks, museums and pubs.
As soon as I came back I stayed for 3 months in Limerick. It is a city with a much lower cost of living than in Dublin but it is a city with a bad reputation in Ireland because it is the city with the largest number of unemployed people using government benefits. Despite its bad reputation Limerick is a good city and has some English language exchange schools. For those coming to Ireland now it may be a good option to consider studying English.
I’m currently living in Sligo because I got a job at a pharmaceutical company. I’m really enjoying the city. It is a small town with 19 thousand inhabitants. The quality of life here is very good, it has some beaches to visit, several supermarkets and shopping centers.
How does the lifestyle differ from the Brazilian way of life?
The lifestyle in Ireland is very different from Brazil. Social inequality is much smaller. It is much safer than living in Brazil.
What is the difference between the Irish and the Brazilians?
I think Brazilians are more open than the Irish. The customs of Brazilians are different too, we have coffee. The Irish have tea.
What is the best part of living in Ireland?
Quality of life, safety and ease of travel.
What are some of the things you dislike most about living in Ireland?
Weather – of course!
Where is the place you like to visit in Ireland and why?
Cliffs of Moher and Galway. I love to go to the Cliffs, there is a very good energy and the place is beautiful. Galway is a very beautiful city to visit, especially during the Christmas season which has the Christmas Market and some attractions in the city center.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of moving to Ireland?
Plan your trip well and ask questions about people who have lived in Ireland or still live. If you have European ancestry look for your rights as it makes life much easier here on Emerald Island.
