I have recently finished my master’s at Queen’s University Belfast in Ecological Management and Conservation Biology. This past year has been, by far, the best experience of my life. I am from Ontario, Canada and I never considered studying abroad until I saw my course being offered at Queen’s. The unique variety of courses offered at the institution was the main reason I chose Queen’s.

Queen's offered the exact course I was looking for

I could not find a master’s programme in Canada that offered a fieldwork component plus a work placement option. Lots of other courses offer work placement options as well, and I think this is such a worthwhile experience whether that be in your postgraduate or undergraduate years. Throughout my work placement, I developed practical skills and learned many valuable tools to take with me into my career.

"The unique variety of courses offered at the institution was the main reason I chose Queen’s."

^{Study Ecological Management at Queen's}

The beauty of Northern Ireland drew me in

The scenic landscapes in Northern Ireland, especially on the North coast, also led me to choose Queen’s. There are lots of things to do in Belfast, but Northern Ireland is such a beautiful country, it was hard to pass up the opportunity to explore somewhere new. Taking the train anywhere out of Belfast to the North coast is very easy and doable without a vehicle. I highly suggest you check out Portrush for its lovely beaches and of course do not forget to visit the Giant’s Causeway - there is nowhere else like it! Plus, if you are lucky, you might be able to catch a stunning north coast sunset!

Belfast is such a friendly city and I felt welcomed immediately upon my arrival last September. Moving to university is a big step, but also moving countries is quite the scary task. I think the fact that Belfast is such a walkable city makes things easier for international students. There is a large number of pubs, shops and fun activities to do throughout the city which are all a reasonable walking distance away from accommodation or the university.

^{Explore the scenic beauty of Northern Ireland}

I met friends for life through social events and clubs

Queen’s puts on a welcome week at the start of the school year that allows you to get involved with all things school spirit, but also it is a great way to meet new people! I had no problem meeting many great friends here in Belfast. I met them through my course, social events, and clubs. I have met friends for life at Queen’s and I am so grateful for the opportunity to meet so many interesting people from all over the world.

I ended up joining the athletics club and women’s football club through the university which was a great way to keep busy and active during my master’s. As an older postgraduate student, I was a little concerned that there would be no other master’s students in the clubs at Queen’s. However, there is a variety of ages that attend all clubs and societies so never be afraid to try something new!

"I have met friends for life at Queen’s and I am so grateful for the opportunity to meet so many interesting people from all over the world."

^{Queen's has over 220 clubs and societies, so there's something for everyone!}

I also attended the biological sciences formal which I will remember for a long time. It was such a fun social night with my course mates, where we all got dressed up and went to the Europa to attend a fun night of good food and dancing!

"My year was incredible, and it really shows as I am staying in Belfast to work for another year!"

Volunteering allowed me to try new experiences

During my time at Queen’s, I joined the Handy Helpers volunteer group as well where I was able to help with community events around Belfast. I enjoyed tree planting for an afternoon with this group. They also do paint nights, litter pick up, craft nights and many more fun activities to get involved with as a volunteer. Another great way to meet friends is through volunteer groups. My advice is to join as many clubs and societies as you can to enjoy the most out of what Queen’s University Belfast has to offer. Put yourself out there and challenge yourself to try new experiences!

^{Make friends for life through social events, clubs and your course}

My year was incredible, and it really shows as I am staying in Belfast to work for another year! I am not ready to leave yet and cannot wait to see what the next year in Belfast brings. Take big leaps and best of luck to future Queen’s students!

Find out more

International Student Survival Guide: Arriving in Belfast

Postgraduate Study at Queen's

More blogs by students from Canada

Kate Moodey Ecological Management and Conservation Biology | Postgraduate Student | Canada Hello! My name is Kate, and I am doing a Master's in Ecological Management and Conservation Biology at Queen's. I come all the way from Ontario, Canada and I am living in Queen's accommodations in the postgraduate residence (Willow Walk). I am also part of the Handy Helpers volunteer group, athletics club and woman's football club. I love all things outdoors and I usually spend my weekends exploring Belfast and going on a nice hike! I would love to share my own experiences and tips on how to enjoy the Student Life here in Belfast!