By Cormac, Software Engineer
From my earliest days, Galway has been my home – a place that feels like a page straight out of a fairytale. Situated on the mesmerizing west coast of Ireland, Galway is most famous for its vibrant cultural, breathtaking landscapes, and strong sense of Irish heritage and community. Its tapestry woven with contrasting shades of sweeping green landscapes and dark blue embrace of the ocean coastline. This city breathes life into every corner, celebrating diversity and warmth. While all of this holds true, let me tell you even more about my beloved city and what I enjoy most.
Cycling is more than a hobby; it’s a passion that allows me to intimately explore Galway’s beauty– and let me tell you, that is one of the best ways to see the area. I start my rides from just outside the city’s center, passing by rows of vibrant green trees that line the paths through suburban neighborhoods, where my closest friends and family live.
The distinct vibe of downtown Galway becomes apparent as I hear the live music performances of street artists, a daily celebration that adds an aura of joy to the city. The bustling streets teem with a melting pot of individuals, from local artisans and community members to tourists from across Ireland and the world, alongside university students, creating an energetic, diverse community.
A visit to my favorite local restaurant for traditional Irish meals and fresh seafood is a cherished routine, often coinciding with the unexpected delight of stumbling upon city-hosted festivals, like the Galway Arts Festival or the Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival. If feeling particularly energetic, I extend my ride onwards the coastline, perhaps indulging in a beach swim, or savoring the breathtaking views of the ocean from nearby historic landmarks like the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, and Connemara National Park.
Because of all the above reasons, I knew I wanted to stay in Galway for university, and perhaps longer after that. As I contemplated my professional trajectory, my growing appreciation for technology became increasingly apparent. Galway is a hub for many innovative tech companies and universities. My journey into the world of technology began during my university years, studying Computer Engineering at the National University of Ireland, Galway. I had the opportunity to participate in Fidelity’s internship program, despite my previous association with the company primarily in financial services. It unveiled a treasure trove of technology opportunities that I had always known about Fidelity from a financial services perspective but was thrilled to learn about the abundance of technology opportunities offered by the firm. Fidelity’s program offered hands-on opportunities to develop skills and gain exposure within the technology group. It was great to be surrounded by so many other technologists in my home city. I was excited about pursuing a career in technology after this experience.
Fidelity drew me in again when I was accepted into their graduate program, leading me to Dublin. The transition to this larger city was nerve-racking, leaving behind the familiar comfort of home. Yet, the Dublin office, though different, felt strangely reminiscent of Galway, offering a warm and welcoming environment.
After spending a year in Dublin, the pandemic altered our work dynamics, prompting a return to Galway for remote work. Now, as a full-time software engineer on Fidelity’s Advanced Process Solutions (APS) team, I’m back in the arms of my beloved city, reconnecting with friends and family. The decision to remain in Galway, despite the experience in Dublin, came from a rediscovered love for the ease of navigation, the affordability of housing, and the strong sense of community both in the city and within Fidelity.
For any technologist considering a change of scenery, I cannot recommend enough the place I’ve always considered home – Galway. Check out our open tech roles in Galway here today to learn more.
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