Hello! My name is Cole Perkins, and I am a second-year student studying Psychology with a minor in Anthropology here at Pitt from Naples, Florida. I am currently in Belfast, Northern Ireland, for the Spring 2026 term studying at Queen’s University Belfast.
Despite a snowy beginning and a semester marked by significant changes, I have already made lasting memories and formed friendships that will stay with me for life. As a psychology student, I am taking two psychology courses as well as one anthropology course. I am taking a Forensic Psychology class as well as a class on Ageing and its relation to the brain and human behavior. For anthropology, I am taking a class called Society, Death, and Disease, which has been very interesting!
Beyond coursework, I have had the chance to explore the local culture and what the city of Belfast has to offer. During the first few weeks here, I have been to places like City Hall, Cathedral Quarter, and the Titanic Quarter, to name a few. Each area is unique and has much to offer. When getting here in early January, the city still kept up its winter decorations, which made where I was going to be living for the next five months feel like home.
I have truly enjoyed living in Belfast, immersing myself in local traditions and gaining a deeper appreciation for Irish culture. I am especially looking forward to experiencing St. Patrick’s Day here and witnessing the community traditions that accompany the celebration. When looking at study abroad options, Belfast intrigued me due to the high-quality education I would receive from a Russell Group institution, as well as the location.
I look forward to seeing what else I get to experience here in Belfast and beyond. I have truly been enjoying my study abroad experience, immersing myself in the local culture and meeting local students at Queen’s University.
Cheers!
Cole Perkins