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Queen's International Student Society (QISS): Bridging Cultures and Creating Community

At Queen's International Student Society (QISS), we strive to create a vibrant platform where students from diverse backgrounds and nationalities can come together, share their unique cultures, and build lasting friendships.

QISS welcome party
QISS Welcome Party

QISS is dedicated to enhancing the university experience for international students through cultural exchange, social events and practical support.

Our Mission and Partnerships

QISS aims to be a hub where students of all backgrounds can connect and celebrate their cultures. We have established partnerships with a variety of local restaurants and grocery stores like A Nice Sip, Ji Chicken and Oishi Sushi, offering our members exclusive discounts on their purchases. This not only helps students save money but also encourages them to explore the culinary diversity of our community.

Bubble waffle inside A Nice Sip

Enjoy discounts in places like A Nice Sip!

Cultural Celebrations and Collaborations

Our society hosts numerous events throughout the year, celebrating significant cultural festivals such as Chinese New Year, Christmas, Diwali, and the Mid-Autumn Festival. These events provide a wonderful opportunity for students to experience different traditions and customs.

We also collaborate with other cultural societies like the Singapore Society (SQUB), Malaysian Students’ Society NI (MSSNI), and the Indonesian Society, enriching our events with a wider array of cultural perspectives.

Queen's has over 220 clubs and societies

The Pride of QISS: Qulture Shock

The highlight of our year is the annual Qulture Shock event, a showcase of diverse cultural talents and performances. This event is the pride and joy of QISS, and each year we form a dedicated committee to bring it to life. Qulture Shock features an array of performances, including singing in native languages, traditional dances, and more. Each event has a unique storyline, ensuring there’s always something new and exciting to experience.

Q Shock party in 2023

Q-Shock 2023

As a previous performer in Qulture Shock, I had the incredible opportunity to represent my country and share something I love with a broad audience. Through this experience, I made many new friends and gained a deeper appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the Qulture Shock committee. Their efforts in organising the show and managing all the performers' needs were truly inspiring.

Get Involved with QISS

There are numerous ways for students to get involved with QISS. You can become a member, join the committee, or even sign up as a performer for Qulture Shock. Joining the committee is an enriching experience that teaches valuable skills in event planning, teamwork, and communication. Collaborating with other societies to create memorable events is both challenging and rewarding.

QISS at Freshers Fair

Freshers' Fair

If you miss the deadline for joining the main committee, don't worry! The Qulture Shock committee opens later in the year, offering another chance to get involved. You can also sign up to perform at Qulture Shock, showcasing your unique talents and cultural heritage.

Connect with Us

To sign up or learn more about QISS, visit the link in our Instagram bio or meet us in person during Freshers' Fair at the Students' Union. If you have any questions, feel free to message us on Instagram – we're always happy to help!

Find out more

Clubs and Societies at Queen's

International students at Queen's

Malaysia: Admissions Guide

Abigail Hee Xue Zhen

Medicine | Undergraduate student | Malaysia

Hey, my name is Abigail, and I'm from Malaysia. I'm currently in my 3rd year of Medicine and when I'm not studying I love to cafe-hunt and restaurant-review in Belfast! (so if anyone needs a recommendation, I'm your person!). I'm also quite an active person, I love to gym, hike and find nearby trail walks in parks and nearby forests.

I've also been involved in QISS (Queen's International Student Society) for two years as part of the committee and as a performer. Through it I've been able to meet students of diverse cultural backgrounds and it has broadened my perspectives and made me more culturally aware.

This is my 5th year living in the UK as an international student and I would love to use my experience to help and guide incoming students, so don't hesitate to reach out!

Abigail Hee
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