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Building Bridges: INTO Queen's Impact on My University Journey

The transition to university, especially in a new country, might be daunting and overwhelming. However, at Queen's University Belfast, there is a pathway that can make it smoother for international students.

Arch in the Quad

My name is Fioreinz, and I am in my second year of Business IT. It was two years ago when I started my journey at Queen's University Belfast. After completing my second year of high school in Indonesia, I applied to INTO Queen’s Foundation in Business, Humanities, and Social Sciences programme.

INTO Queen's is a college of Queen's University Belfast, providing academic programmes and English language courses for international students in preparation for university. They offer pathways to a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees at Queen's.

Find out more about INTO Queen's!

The application process

The application process was smooth and clear. Students can apply directly through their website or with the help of a local education counsellor. Everyone at INTO Queen's was helpful before I even set foot in Belfast. They provided us with pre-departure briefings and sent regular email updates, ensuring we were well-prepared for the transition.

INTO Queen's support has been invaluable, making my move to a new country and university environment much easier. Their comprehensive assistance, including orientation programmes, visa guidance, and social activities, has made my experience at Belfast enriching and fulfilling.

INTO Centre

INTO Queen's Centre

Induction and classes

From the day of induction until the last day of class, spanning around nine months, we were integrated into the Queen's community just like other direct entry students. Residing in Queen's accommodation, participating in societies, attending university events, and accessing all facilities and buildings just like any other Queen's students. The only difference would be we mainly study in the INTO centre and following a more intensive timetable.

In addition to our core subjects, we also engaged in English Language and Study Skills (ELSS) courses and attended Employability Skills classes. The class sizes were notably smaller compared to the lectures I experienced in my first year at Queen's. I personally feel this smaller class size as advantageous because it allows for greater focus and more personalised assistance from our teachers. This support is particularly valuable as we navigate a new curriculum and language.

Hear from alumni Nuoya on her experience of INTO Queen's

A smooth transition

The modules in the Foundation programme provide a solid base of knowledge, setting us up well for our first year at university. Despite never having studied business in high school, taking the Business Studies module during my Foundation year proved essential during my first year at Queen's.

Familiarity with business terms used by lecturers helped increase my understanding of course material. INTO Queen's also encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and explore my potential. Starting as a course representative for IFPBHSS and INTO Queen's student ambassador, I later continued as a course representative for Business IT and a global student ambassador for Queen’s.

Seating area in Queen's Business School

Inside Queen's Business School

The supportive environment at INTO Queen's encourages active participation and provides plenty of support for students to develop their talents.

Overall, the Foundation programme not only provides students with essential knowledge but also fosters personal growth and leadership skills. My experience at INTO Queen's has played a vital role in shaping my academic journey, making it easier for me to adapt during my first year at Queen’s University Belfast.

Find out more

INTO Queen's

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Fioreinz Renata Sandjaja

Business Information Technology  | Undergraduate student | Indonesia

Hi! My name is Fioreinz, I’m from Indonesia. I’m currently in my second year of studying Business Information Technology. I have a passion for travel and movies, so I’m always up for a good chat about new destinations or film recommendations! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions, need help, or just want to connect for a chat.

Fioreinz Sandjaja
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