Queen’s University Belfast
Queen’s University Belfast has long been a destination for international students looking to pursue higher education abroad. In recent years, the university has seen an influx of Indian students from all walks of life, eager to experience life in Northern Ireland. What is it like for Indian students studying at Queen’s University Belfast? We asked four of them to share their experiences and offer advice for those considering making the same journey. In this blog post, we will explore what it’s like for Indian students studying at Queen’s University Belfast and provide tips on how to make the most out of your time there.
Student’s Experience at Queen’s University Belfast
Queen’s University Belfast is a world-renowned university located in the heart of Belfast, Northern Ireland. The university has a long and proud tradition of academic excellence dating back to its foundation in 1845. Queen’s is ranked within the top 1% of universities worldwide and is a member of the Russell Group of leading UK research universities.
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across a broad spectrum of disciplines. Indian students at Queen’s can study subjects such as business, engineering, law, medicine, and politics. Queen’s also has an excellent reputation for research, with over £200 million invested in research each year.
Queen’s University Belfast is an internationally respected institution and is a great choice for Indian students looking to study abroad. The university provides an outstanding education and research experience, set against the backdrop of one of Europe’s most vibrant and historic cities.
Arrival and Impressions of Queen’s University Belfast
Queen’s University Belfast is one of the leading universities in the United Kingdom and is a member of the Russell Group of 24 research-intensive universities. It was founded as Queen’s College, Belfast in 1845. Today, the university has over 24,000 students and 3,700 staff members.
I arrived at Queen’s University Belfast on a cold winter day. The campus is located in the heart of the city and is spread across a large area. I was impressed by the beautiful architecture of the buildings and the green spaces on campus. The university has a very international feel to it with students from all over the world.
I found the people to be very friendly and helpful. I quickly settled into my accommodation and began exploring the city. Belfast is a vibrant city with lots to see and do. I enjoyed visiting some of the city’s many museums and art galleries. I also loved exploring the lively nightlife scene. Overall, I had a great experience at Queen’s University Belfast and would definitely recommend it to others!
Course and Curriculum
Queen’s University Belfast is a world-renowned institution, and its course and curriculum are top-notch. I am currently enrolled in the School of Business, and I can say with certainty that the quality of education here is outstanding.
The coursework is very demanding, but that is to be expected at a school like Queen’s. What I appreciate about the curriculum is that it is very well-rounded. In addition to the core business classes, we are also required to take classes in other disciplines such as history, philosophy, and English. This allows us to get a well-rounded education and prepare us for the real world.
I would highly recommend Queen’s University Belfast to any student looking for a top-quality education. The course and curriculum here are second to none, and I am confident that I am receiving an education that will prepare me for success in my career.
Making Friends and Socialising
When you first arrive at university, it can be daunting. You don’t know anyone and you might feel like you’re the only one from your country. But don’t worry, there are lots of international students at Queen’s University Belfast and everyone is in the same boat. There are loads of ways to make friends and socialize on campus. Here are a few tips:
Get Involved With Student Clubs and Societies
This is a great way to meet people with similar interests to you. There’s something for everyone, from sports clubs to cultural societies.
Attend University Events
These are great opportunities to meet new people in a relaxed setting. Check out what’s happening on campus and see if anything takes your fancy.
Go Out and Explore Belfast
This city has so much to offer! Take some time to wander around and find your favorite spots. And don’t forget to try the local food – it’s delicious!
Talk to people!
It sounds obvious, but sometimes all it takes is a friendly chat to start making friends. So don’t be afraid to say hi to someone new.
Making friends at university can seem daunting at first, but there are plenty of opportunities if you just put yourself out there!
Part-Time Work and Extra-Curricular Activities at Queen’s University Belfast
Queen’s University Belfast is a world-renowned institution and students who attend Queen’s come from all over the world. India is one of the many countries represented at Queen’s and Indian students often have unique experiences while studying abroad.
One common experience for Indian students studying in Belfast is adjusting to part-time work and extra-curricular activities outside of their coursework. In India, it is very common for university students to focus solely on their studies and not have time for anything else. This can be a shock to Indian students when they arrive in Belfast and see how much their peers are involved in extracurricular activities and part-time work.
It can be difficult for Indian students to adjust to this change, but it is important to remember that part-time work and extra-curricular activities can actually enhance your university experience. They can help you meet new people, learn new skills, and make some extra money. If you are struggling to adjust, reach out to your fellow Indian students or other international students at Queen’s for support.
Homesickness and Adjusting to a New Culture
As an Indian student studying at Queen’s University Belfast, I have experienced my fair share of homesickness and culture shock. It can be tough leaving your family and friends behind to move to a new country, but there are ways to help make the transition smoother.
One of the best things you can do is to reach out to other Indian students on campus. There are likely many others in the same situation as you, so it can be helpful to connect with them and form a support system. You can also get involved with cultural clubs or societies related to India. This can help you feel more connected to your culture while also providing an opportunity to meet new people.
It’s also important to try to get involved in campus life as much as possible. Attending events and joining clubs will help you meet new friends and feel more comfortable in your new surroundings. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone – it’s one of the best ways to learn and grow!
Adjusting to a new culture can be challenging, but it’s also an incredibly rewarding experience. By staying positive and taking advantage of all the resources available to you, you’ll soon feel right at home here at Queen’s University Belfast!
Student Visa Process
The UK student visa process can be a daunting task, but with the right information and support, it can be a smooth and stress-free experience. Here is a step-by-step guide to the student visa process for Indian students applying to Queen’s University Belfast:
- Gather the required documents. You will need to submit your passport, application form, academic transcripts, and evidence of financial support.
- Submit your application online or at your nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC).
- Once your application has been processed, you will receive a decision letter from the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) confirming your visa status.
- If your visa is approved, you will need to pay the visa fee and make arrangements to travel to the UK. You will also need to provide biometric information at this stage (fingerprints and a digital photograph).
- Upon arrival in the UK, you will need to present your passport and decision letter to the immigration officer at the port of entry. They will stamp your passport with your student visa and give you an immigration status card which you must keep safe throughout your stay in the UK.
Returning Home
It has been an amazing experience studying at Queen’s University Belfast. I have made so many friends from all over the world and learned so much. But now it is time to return home to India. Here are some of my thoughts on returning home.
I am excited to be going back home to India after being away for so long. It will be great to see my family and friends again. I am also looking forward to the food! I have really missed Indian food.
At the same time, I am a little bit nervous about returning home. I have gotten used to the independent lifestyle here in Belfast and it will be strange not having that anymore. I am also worried about how I will adapt to being back in India after such a long time away. But I am sure it will all be fine in the end.
I would like to say a big thank you to everyone at Queen’s University Belfast for making my time here so special. I will never forget my time here and I hope to come back and visit soon!
Conclusion
Studying at Queen’s University Belfast has been an amazing experience for Indian students. The university offers a wide range of courses and opportunities to pursue higher education, as well as access to rich cultural experiences. Students have the opportunity to make friends from all over the world and learn about different cultures in a safe environment. Not only does it provide a great academic foundation but also a unique opportunity for personal growth which has certainly proven beneficial for many Indian students who have studied here.
Also Read: Why Should We Consider Study in Canada as Best Option?