From Dublin to NYC: Saoirse Duffy’s Journey in E-Commerce, Fashion, and Life in the Big Apple

Starting her career with a global business background, Saoirse Duffy always had aspirations of breaking into the luxury fashion industry. When the opportunity arose to work as an E-Commerce and Digital Marketing Associate with a luxury fashion retailer in New York City, she jumped at the opportunity. Having previously spent time in Paris, she brought great international experience to the role but notes that working in Soho brought its own unique energy. It was really cool to be based there, Saoirse told us. She especially enjoyed the culture of her office, sharing, in her own words, that it did not have that ‘stuck up office vibe’, appreciating the departure from a traditional corporate environment. 

Daily tasks were straightforward, but the highlight was getting to work closely with the CEO, who was actively involved in the company’s day-to-day operations. It was very “cool to be involved in top-level discussions” Saoirse commented. Over time, Saoirse’s responsibilities grew, from designing newsletters to collaborating with multiple managers and departments, all under the guidance of a supportive mentor. She names helping out with a big photoshoot as the highlight of her role. 

Saoirse’s evenings often ended with a walk from Soho to Grand Central, where she would catch the train to her apartment in Queens. Living in Astoria was a “nice break from the city” she adds. Admitting “the city is tough when you start out”, emphasizing the importance of joining groups and building connections. Outside of work, Saoirse found community through sports and cultural groups including playing Gaelic football at the O’Donovan Rossa Irish Football club in Queens, joining the Irish network and becoming part of the board, and joining walking groups all throughout the city. Another highlight of Saoirse’s J-1 year was reaching the senior championship final with her GAA team. She played the final game right before she left for Ireland and is so grateful for all the girls she met through that team. 

Commenting on the Irish connection, Saoirse says she was “blown away by the amount of Irish connections and Irish pubs”. Even with these connections, the American work life is still different, she notes. “Be prepared for a change from Ireland” she advises future J-1s. That being said, Saoirse 

would not change her experience saying that “New York is definitely a place to put yourself outside your comfort zone” and she did just that. Though she mentions she wishes she got to travel more, she recommends using both grace periods and any bank holidays to make the most of the J-1.

Her advice to newcomers was clear: patience and persistence are key. Saoirse secured her role  through LinkedIn’s Easy Apply feature, but she  reminds others that luck also plays a role. She encouraged taking full advantage of available resources, highlighting the support offered by Rian. 

As her J-1 year came to a close, Saoirse reflected 

on how her experience has shaped her professionally and personally. The confidence she gained, along with the exposure to a diverse and ambitious environment, prepare her for her next step–a new role with Google in Ireland. She credits her time in the U.S. with giving her an edge in digital marking and adaptability in cross-cultural settings. 

For Saoirse, her J-1 experience was not just a career stepping stone but a transformative year of growth, learning, and adventure. When asked to sum up her time in a few words, she said it “definitely feels like a movie” and “everything’s a bit surreal”.