These range from the best social activities, to academic and career-related exposure you can partake in to ensure you have a fulfilling, enjoyable and productive time at Queen’s!

MyFuture, QWork, and QUB Careers

These are platforms you can register for yourself to attend informative and engaging workshops and events, apply to internships and part-time jobs (both internal and external), book one-on-one sessions for career advancement, etc. If you are someone who loves to go beyond just ‘studying’ at university and aim to make the most out of your time, registering with these sites and consistently looking for opportunities to enhance your professional development might prove to be highly beneficial in the long run.

The careers fairs can be a great way to network with others in your field, and you can also apply for the AHSS student mentoring programme, where you can individually connect with a mentor (Queen’s Alumni) to help progress in your chosen career path.

Going to the Library

While your own study space at your residence might feel more comfortable to you, trying out the library every now and then can be both motivating and refreshing. The library is essentially a silent environment where you are surrounded by fellow students who are also as passionate about learning as you! This can further help with not getting easily distracted and resisting the urge to scroll through your phone.

Students' Union Events

Being the number one students' union in the entirety of the UK (Whatuni? Student Choice Awards 2025), the Queen's SU offers you many, free, day-to-day events where you can go with a friend or join alone to have a good social time. For example, Mind Your Mood's lowkey and chill wellbeing events usually focus on crafting (painting, crocheting, etc.) while you enjoy a free snack. It can be your calm amidst all other chaos. The Union Bar also hosts acoustic sessions once per week where you can enjoy a drink while chilling-out!

Volunteering with the SU or other places

There are numerous opportunities for you to volunteer, you can be part of the Handy Helpers team or volunteer with a society you are passionate about! This is your chance to contribute to the student community, and work for the wellness of a particular group. One of your meaningful endeavours for this academic year can be to prioritise volunteering.

You can also volunteer at other places in Belfast. It is a great way to gain experience in an environment you love supporting. For example, volunteering at Oxfam as a bookseller can be an overall inspiring experience if you love being surrounded by books and learning more about them. The Seamus Heaney Centre also offer training in volunteer positions. This is for those interested in creative writing and conducting literary workshops for children.

Global Opportunities

Oftentimes, many students are unaware of the Global Opportunities available here at Queen’s. While it is generally encouraged for students to do a semester/placement abroad, you can also opt for shorter programmes. One such opportunity is the Global Leadership Programme, where students team up to work on a real project to develop a real solution. At the end of the programme, you have a chance to travel to an international location for further insightful engagement. Applications for this programme usually open in Autumn.

Be it attending workshops, learning, taking care of your mental health, volunteering, or actively trying to get ahead in your career, Queen’s offers you diverse experiences which you can make valuable use of. So, try not to miss out on them!

Find out more

Student Life at Queen's

Queen's Bucket List for New Students

Advice for New Students at Queen’s: Building Your Foundation Beyond the Classroom

Magdalene Natasha Charles Anthropology and English | Undergraduate Student | India I'm an undergraduate student pursuing Anthropology and English at Queen's. Originally from Chennai, India, I've now moved to Belfast for my studies. In my free time, I like to write poetry, and I've self-published my own collection ('Subdued Cries' on Amazon). I'm an aspiring novelist and I hope to inspire people through my writing journey. I also journal, and am fond of frolicking (or taking calming walks) through parks and gardens. I'm extremely passionate about reading and my current favourite is The Secret History by Donna Tartt. I'm constantly looking for ways to improve my personal and professional skills, and hope to gain meaningful experience during my time here at Queen's.