I’ve been living in Belfast for over a year now, and it has been one of the greatest experiences of my life! From the people, its culture, the infrastructure and peaceful pace of life, Northern Ireland offers a wonderful quality of life. If you’re thinking of coming here to study (and maybe work, too), don’t hesitate!

Why I chose Queen's and my course

When I was researching places and universities to continue my studies, I wanted somewhere completely different from what I was accustomed to in El Salvador. A different way of life and study so I could have a new experience and challenge myself. Queen’s offered just that. With its cutting-edge research, high quality of education, diverse student population and Northern Ireland’s great quality of life, it was easy to make the choice.

I’m so glad I came here. It’s a big change and adjustment at the beginning, but the University has so much support available that they make you feel right at home from day one. Plus, everyone’s really nice and friendly!

The Lanyon lit up

My journey to Belfast and the welcome and orientation experience

The trip from Central America to Belfast is long and challenging. Last year, I went from San Salvador to Los Angeles, then Los Angeles to Frankfurt and Frankfurt to Belfast. This year, after spending the summer in El Salvador, I decided to fly from New York to Dublin, and then take a 2-hour bus to Belfast. I discovered that you could find cheaper flights to Dublin and more connections, making your total trip less tiring and a little faster.

Once in Belfast, I checked into my student accommodation, which was at Willow Walk, located in Elms Village. The process was super easy and straightforward. One of the great advantages of coming to the UK is that everything’s available for delivery, so you can purchase everything you’ll need for your dorm (kitchen accessories, bedding, etc.) before you arrive, and just pick it up at reception.

Botanic Gardens

The next week, before classes start, the University organises a lot of activities for new and returning students to get settled into life on campus. You can take walking tours, make new friends from different countries while playing board games, trips to IKEA to buy essentials, social breakfasts, city sightseeing bus tour, library tours, the famous Fresher’s Fair and lots more! All of these activities help you connect with your new surroundings, meet great new people and get settled into your new home. I highly recommend you get involved in them before you start your studies.

Tips for prospective students

Get winter clothes! Weather here in Belfast is completely different than in El Salvador and Central America. First of all, it rains throughout the year. Also, it gets really cold, which is something we’re not used to at all back home, so be prepared and make sure you buy warm clothes and learn how to layer up, especially for the winter months.

At the Giant's Causeway

Don’t worry too much about bringing things from home, or if you forget something. It’s really easy to find everything you need here in Belfast and all over the UK. You can always order anything through delivery, and most stores are at walking distance from student accommodation.

Be open minded: you’ll meet people from all over the world, with different points of view and ways of thinking. This will expand your perception and soon you’ll be making friends for life!

Don’t worry about activities because you’ll never be bored! Not just at Uni/campus, but outside, Northern Ireland offers so much to see and enjoy, from the Titanic Experience, Giant’s Causeway, Carrickfergus Castle, bowling, movies, mini golf, etc. Plus, Dublin is only 2 hours away by bus!

Enjoy! Coming to Belfast is a once in a lifetime experience. Whether you come for just a few months or are here to stay, absorb everything you can, meet people, travel, study and work hard and have a great time!

Find out more

Living in Belfast

Student life at Queen's: What our international students say

Miguel Ruiz Reyes  MSc Psychological Science | Postgraduate Student | El Salvador Hola! My name is Miguel, I’m 34 years old and I’m from El Salvador in Central America.  I love music, movies, books, football and traveling. Belfast is such a wonderful place because it has something for everyone, and you can find amazing experiences and meet great people. I’m always on the lookout for creative spaces, whether its songwriting, watching and reviewing films or discussing the latest non-fiction books.  I’m also a member of the Mature Students Society and the Latin American Society.