While more than halfway through my study abroad experience at Queen’s University in Belfast, I have begun to reflect on the academic and social communities I have gained here.
Academically, I have been able to connect with my professors in a meaningful way in the Psychology department as well as my Archaeology professor. For psychology, I have gotten to know my guest lecturers in my Forensic Psychology course during small group discussions, which made me appreciate their careers and insight into the weekly lecture topics. For my Ageing course, another course that incorporates small group discussions, I have gotten to know more about my professor as well as insight into his research on Parkinson’s on a professional level, as he connects with other universities in the United Kingdom as well as the Republic of Ireland.
Image is of the McClay Library at Queen’s. I utilize this space with my peers to study and accomplish my assignments.
Alongside building a close-knit academic community with my professors, I have also formed meaningful relationships with both local students and fellow study abroad peers from the United States. Connecting with other international students has provided a sense of comfort and shared understanding, while my relationships with local students have been equally valuable, giving me consistent support and familiarity within my different course modules.
Beyond my academic network, I have also built meaningful social connections with locals in everyday settings. For example, at the Student Union coffee shop, the staff now recognize me and often take the time to ask how I am doing. These small but genuine interactions have made a strong impression, reflecting the warmth and friendliness I have consistently experienced from people throughout Northern Ireland.
Spring at Queen’s University!
Overall, I am deeply appreciative of both the professional and social connections I have developed at Queen’s University Belfast thus far, and I look forward to building on these relationships as examinations approach and the semester draws to a close in the coming weeks.