Alan Brennan

I received my Morrison Visa in 1993. At the time, I was living at home with my family in Galway and attending college at UCG. When the opportunity to apply for the visa arose, I knew I had to take it. I had previously visited the U.S. on vacation and spent a summer on a J1 visa, where I got my first real taste of what life could be like in America.

“The sheer scale of opportunities available to new graduates was eye-opening, and of course, the blue skies and sunshine didn’t hurt either. It was that sense of possibility that ultimately inspired me to apply for the Morrison Visa.”

I initially landed in Boston, where I was surrounded by friends from Galway, making the transition much smoother. Over time, my journey led me to Baltimore, Maryland, where I eventually settled and built my life.

My early days in Boston were filled with adventure, excitement, and plenty of memorable moments. I still remember the weekly ritual of lining up to call home on a Sunday when international phone rates were cheaper, something that seems almost unimaginable now in the age of instant communication. I also took full advantage of everything the city had to offer, attending concerts and events that would never have been an option back in Galway.

While I was fortunate to have a strong foundation, a solid education and a support system of friends, finding that first professional job was my biggest challenge. I knew I had the skills and determination, but breaking into my field required persistence. I had to be stubborn in my search, but eventually, the right opportunity came along, and from there, I was able to build a career.

“Moving to the U.S. changed the course of my life in ways I could never have anticipated.”

Here, I met my wife, and together we built a life and a family that continues to thrive in Baltimore today. The Morrison Visa didn’t just give me the chance to work, it gave me the foundation for a future, one filled with opportunities, growth, and the ability to contribute to society in the best way I could.

The Morrison Visa Program was a life-changing opportunity. It allowed me to come to the U.S., work in my field, and establish a life for myself and my family. Without it, I don’t know where my path would have led. I am still deeply grateful today for the doors it opened, and I hope that others in the future will have similar opportunities to take a chance, work hard, and build a better life.