Sir, – I write to you out of frustration and sadness. Like so many other Irish graduates, it appears that I am destined for the shores of some other land, rather than the place which I call home.
I did all the right things. Having studied Law at UCC, I graduated with a 2.1. Believing that this three-year degree might not suffice, I decided to complete a Masters degree in my chosen discipline. I am now left in the unfortunate position of not wanting to be either a solicitor or barrister. Rejection letters from past, alternative job applications have oft-stated my lack of “real-life” experience. My struggle is against the idea that one must now work for free in order to gain the experience necessary for meaningful employment.
Letters after your name, though they don’t come cheap, won’t earn you a living, it seems.
So, to my family and friends, who supported me through years of schooling and third-level education, it is with a heavy heart that I contemplate leaving. It feels like I have let you down. And to a Government that allowed my home, my country, exhaust itself of opportunities for young graduates such as myself – I have no problem in bidding you adieu. – Yours, etc,