Caitlin Murphy

My name is Caitlin Murphy, I am 20 years old and currently in my second year of International Business studies at Maynooth University, where my chosen module area is Entrepreneurship. Alongside my studies, I started my own beauty business from home in early 2025, which has given me valuable hands-on experience in customer service, marketing, communication, and managing a business independently. I first trained in brows and lashes with Lashdolls and later expanded my skills by training in nails in County Laois.

I promote my business mainly through Instagram, where I create and share content showcasing my work and interact directly with clients. During my first year in university, guest speaker Áine Kennedy spoke to our class, which really changed my perspective on business and strengthened my interest in entrepreneurship and my course. Since then, I have become very interested in growing brands and would love to work in an environment similar to The Smooth Company.

I am confident, hardworking, and have strong communication skills, and I hope to gain valuable experience and further develop my skills through a placement opportunity.

Alongside running my own beauty business, I have also worked as a waitress in a hotel for the past four years. Through this role, I have developed strong customer service, communication, and teamwork skills while working in a fast-paced environment. I have experience dealing with customers professionally, handling busy situations under pressure, and ensuring guests receive a positive experience.

Managing both my job and my studies has strengthened my time management, organisation, and ability to work independently. In addition, running my own beauty business since early 2025 has given me hands-on experience in social media marketing, client communication, appointment management, and content creation.

I am in my second year of International business In Maynooth University