Summer is undoubtedly the best time of the year. Finally, the days become longer, the sun shines everywhere, the energy feels different, more joy, more time to spend outdoors and let our body absorb all the vitamin D we can from the sun.

Summer is wonderful without a doubt, but this summer is very special because, in this season that inspires enjoying the sunshine all the time, I must write my thesis to be able to earn my master’s degree at Queen's. I decided to stay in Belfast to do the dissertation, considering that here I am going to find the resources I need to be able to do a good job, and also because I did not want to miss out on the beauty of this city in all its seasons.

Below are some of the cosy places that I have found in the city to write my dissertation; and also where I can allow myself to have break spaces to maintain an adequate balance for my wellbeing.

Take a tour of the McClay Library

Queen’s spaces: The SU, Graduate School, and the McClay Library

The university offers the best spaces to concentrate on writing your dissertation, where you can study individually or even book group study spaces to study with your friends. A haven of silence and concentration, the library offers access to vast academic resources that facilitate deep and rigorous research.

Also remember that at this time, many other students will also be writing their dissertations in the library, so always be aware of the library's occupancy level before going.

Visit the Queen's virtual tour for a full 360 view of the library

In the Graduate School, there are spaces designed for collaborative study and the exchange of ideas, this is without a doubt my favourite way to study when I am surrounded by my friends. Likewise, the Students' Union provides a more relaxed environment where it is possible to chat with colleagues in a less formal environment. This diversity of spaces fosters a perfect balance between intensive study and dynamic collaboration.

The break: Botanic Gardens

Without a doubt, writing the dissertation requires time and concentration. But don't forget that you should always take breaks and rest your mind to maintain a good balance. If you decide to study on campus, Botanic Gardens is the perfect space to take a break and enjoy the summer at the same time. When I study with my friends, we always come to this place to have our lunch, enjoy the sun a little, and eat some ice cream. We rest and then return to our work.

A well-deserved ice cream after writing 2 lines of my dissertation

Study spaces in your accommodation

It is always possible to study in the comfort of your home. Some people find it good to study from their rooms, but there are others, like me, who find it impossible to study when they have a bed next to them, because between writing and sleeping, which is more attractive?? However, in your accommodation, you will likely be able to find many individual or group study spaces.

In these spaces, you can concentrate, get inspired, and even enjoy a type of comfort similar to that of your room (you don't have to wear sneakers when you can wear slippers). In addition, you can return whenever you feel like it to your apartment for some coffee, or even interact with your neighbours who will surely be studying just like you.

Find out more about accommodation at Queen's

The break: Go for a walk and enjoy the sun

My accommodation is in the city centre, and my breaks often involve walking through this beautiful part of the city, or even sitting for a while on the grass in the City Hall gardens. While I walk (by myself or with someone) I try to clear my mind of everything, give myself time to de-stress, and encourage myself to continue writing.

Coffee shops are always a good option

Since beginning my dissertation, I have become an expert coffee shop hunter in Belfast. Some of the ones I have found do not offer the perfect concentration space for studying, however, I would highlight many for this type of activity.

First, if what you want is to study, I would try not to go to chain coffee shops. They are always the most crowded, also remember that in the summer the city is full of tourists, and tourists tend to go to these places more often, so these cafes will always be full. I would recommend going to local, unique, and independent coffee shops.

Coffee shop study session

Among my favourites to study and also enjoy a snack are Treat, The Pocket, French Village, Napoleon Coffee, Town Square, Ground Espresso in Waterstones book store, and Daisies. My recommendation would be to always look for something local, and you will also become an expert on local places in Belfast for when your friends come to visit you from elsewhere.

The break: When I study in a coffee shop, I always go with someone

My friends and I do it at least once a week and that way we can study together and talk a little during our breaks. It is a good way to at least continue seeing each other since we do not see each other in class anymore, and thus maintain good communication and relationships while we study. Going with your friends will also give you the best break.

Coffee and cake for the break

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Postgraduate Study at Queen's

Study Spaces at Queen's

Study Violence, Terrorism and Security at Queen's

Information for students from Colombia

Isabella Barros De La Rosa Violence, Terrorism and Security | Postgraduate Student | Colombia Hello, my name is Isabella Barros, I am 24 years old and I am from a beautiful city on the Caribbean coast of Colombia called Barranquilla. I am currently pursuing my master's in Violence, Terrorism and Security at Queen’s. I am very into running and outdoor activities. That's why Belfast is so amazing to live in, because of the landscapes, and the spaces for this kind of hobby. Besides running and studying, you can find me in any bookstore, wandering around the city, or enjoying a pleasant coffee in a cute cafe!