Hello! My name is Heather. I am a third-year at Pitt, pursuing a dual degree in Accounting and Neuroscience. I am currently in Belfast, Northern Ireland and studying at Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) for the Fall 2026 semester. I was initially drawn to QUB because of its top-notch curriculum, especially in business, so I was…
Tag: Belfast
Lessons Learned in Belfast: Inside the Classroom
I got home from my study abroad program a little over a week ago and have had ample time to sit with what I have learned during my time in Belfast. In my first blog post, I touched on some of the reasons why I thought this program would be beneficial to me. However, there…
Reflecting on Five Transformative Months Abroad in Northern Ireland
Hello! My name is Cole Perkins, and I wanted to say one final hello as I close this incredible chapter of my life in Northern Ireland. For geographical orientation, I have added a map of Ireland and the surrounding area with a pin for Belfast. (Picture from Britannica) I include this picture because, when my…
Cultural Learning in Northern Ireland: What to Expect
My program came to a close today, but I have a few days of independent travel to reflect on my experiences and all that I’ve learned. The two aspects I was most looking forward to while studying abroad were cultural immersion and gaining practical knowledge in my field. Today, I’m going to explore the former….
Goodbye Belfast!
It has been just two weeks since we left Belfast, but it feels like much longer. The Social Roots of Medical Innovation program was truly one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. Belfast was a city completely unknown to me, and this program was not at all what I expected, in the best way…
Beyond Belfast
On the final day of the two-week program Social Roots of Medical Innovation, we visited the Antrim Coast and Giant’s Causeway. We took in the beautiful sights, the expanse of fields and contrast between the greenery and cliffs by the clear water, the breeze against the warmth of the sun, the sounds of sheep and…
Farewell to Belfast
A full week has passed since I left Northern Ireland for the States. The Social Roots of Medical Innovation – Frederick Firsts Program has been one of the most meaningful and well-rounded experiences of my life. I have learned so much culturally, socially, academically, and internally. The experience focused on community care and its importance…
Renee in Belfast: Bye, Pittsburgh!
Hello! My name is Renee Arlotti, and I am preparing to enter my final semester at Pitt. I am an FHC Psychology major completing minors in Spanish and Applied Developmental Psychology, as well as a certificate in Public & Professional Writing. I currently work at a psychiatric hospital, and my future plans include getting a…
Narratives in Belfast
Throughout the week in Belfast, we explored different narratives of the history of Belfast and Northern Ireland through guided tours, museum visits, and guest talks. Through these experiences, I learned different perspectives and powerful stories about The Troubles, a 30 year sectarian conflict. By simply listening, watching, and reflecting within the physical landscape and environment…
A Scenic Farewell to Belfast
I’m back home after being in Belfast, Northern Ireland. I have been reflecting on the places I visited and the experiences I had throughout this study abroad program. Although the trip was different from what I expected, it still provided an opportunity to learn about Northern Ireland’s history and culture. As the trip came to…