It was an unforgettable experience and a programme that I would highly recommend to everyone.

What aspects of the programme inspired you the most? 

I was genuinely inspired by the warmth and friendliness of the people in North Carolina. Having visited other parts of the United States, I had not encountered such a consistent level of hospitality. From university staff and restaurant servers to Uber drivers, every interaction was marked by a welcoming attitude and engaging conversation. No matter where we went, we were met with kindness and openness that left a lasting impression. Furthermore, the lecture we attended on sustainable tourism made me more aware of the deeper impact travel can have. I began to see tourism not just as leisure, but as a powerful industry with social, cultural, economic and environmental consequences. Learning about sustainability principles inspired me to be more thoughtful in how I travel and to consider how I can help preserve the places I visit. This new perspective stayed with me throughout the trip, encouraging more mindful engagement with each destination.

What aspects of the programme challenged your pre-existing assumptions about the city, country, and culture the most?

I assumed Wilmington would have a fast-paced and somewhat commercialised lifestyle, similar to other parts of America I had previously visited. However, what I found was quite the opposite. Wilmington offered an extremely relaxed, coastal atmosphere that felt more like a close-knit community than a bustling city. Life moved at a slower pace, with people taking time to enjoy their surroundings, whether that meant walking along the riverwalk in Downtown, spending afternoons at Wrightsville Beach or gathering for local events and live music.

One of the most challenging aspects of the cultural exchange was how normalised gun ownership is in North Carolina. I was surprised by how openly some locals spoke about owning guns. At first, this felt quite unsettling, as I associated guns with violence. But through conversations with these locals, I began to understand that, for many, gun ownership represents personal freedom, self-reliance and even family tradition. This experience challenged my assumptions and helped me develop a more nuanced understanding of how cultural values shape attitudes toward guns.

What aspects of the programme developed your knowledge, skills and values the most?

This programme significantly deepened my knowledge of a unique area of American history, one that I may never have encountered without this experience. I have always had an interest in American history, having studied aspects of it at A-Level, so when I saw this trip advertised, I knew immediately that I wanted to apply. Through the programme, I gained a deeper understanding of Wilmington in a global context, its Civil War history and its rich cultural background. Exploring these topics not only expanded my historical knowledge but also helped me develop critical thinking skills and a better appreciation of the complexities of American history and identity.

Equally important was the opportunity to connect with other students on the trip. I formed strong friendships with people I may never have crossed paths with otherwise and those connections became one of the most memorable parts of the experience. Being surrounded by such a great group of fellow QUB students not only made the trip more enjoyable, but also contributed to my personal growth and made the programme feel truly special.

How do you feel the programme added value to your degree and career opportunities?

Although this programme was not specific to my Law degree, it has greatly complemented my studies by strengthening core skills that are fundamental to legal practice. The experience enhanced my critical thinking, communication skills and ability to engage with unfamiliar viewpoints - skills that are crucial when analysing legal issues or constructing arguments. From a career perspective, participation in this programme demonstrates initiative, adaptability and cultural awareness - qualities that are highly valued by employers. Overall, the programme has enriched my academic development and will undoubtedly strengthen my CV and future career prospects within the legal field. A huge thank you to Queen’s University Belfast and UNCW for providing me with this amazing experience!