There is plenty to do in Belfast

I chose to study my Master’s in Public History at Queen’s University Belfast. I’d studied Belfast previously and was always interested in its modern history of conflict, reconciliation, and public commemoration. So, that led me to consider studying there and I just went for it! Across the Pond streamlined everything and walked me through every step. There are some small differences in applications and their help was appreciated. I got accepted to every school I applied to.

I adjusted to Belfast quite smoothly quite honestly. It’s a great city with friendly people and just big enough to have all the good parts of a city, but small enough that it’s easily navigable and easy to settle in. My accommodation was centre city, just a couple blocks from Belfast City Hall. I walked everywhere, which allowed me to hit the pub with friends and still live a reasonably healthy lifestyle.

I met some excellent people in my program, several of which were Americans, so while I’d encourage applicants to meet people from all over, you will never be alone as an American abroad. We are truly everywhere! I developed some close friendships and some ended up staying after our program ended. I enjoyed further developing my understanding of Belfast’s difficult past. Sectarianism remains relevant as murals and walls divide communities, but while sometimes the news and politics can be jarring, Belfast is very safe and I never felt threatened or uncomfortable. It’s a fantastic learning experience for those who didn’t grow up there to have.

One of my favorite things about being in the UK was the ability to travel with ease and generally at low cost. Certainly, your studies come first, but for those in a Master’s program, it is likely you will have a fair amount of free time, or at least time you are not in class. I visited cities like Dublin, Amsterdam, Geneva, Brussels, Berlin, Lisbon, Paris, and cities all over Britain like London, Liverpool, and Edinburgh! I just took advantage and was often working at my laptop in a café somewhere other than Belfast. Though I’m sure I’ve had coffee at just about every coffee shop in the Belfast city centre.

Admittedly, I did not join any clubs as a graduate student, but there is plenty to do in Belfast. After making friends we would bake together, get lunch, coffee, take walks, attend rugby or football (soccer) games, and so much more. We also liked to take short day trips up the Irish coast or visit local museums.

The cultural differences are subtle and you will surely settle in with little difficulty, but be sure to stock up on those American treats like sauces (ranch is extremely uncommon!), good peanut butter, mac & cheese, and taco seasonings! Other than some of your favorite goodies from home, grocery shopping is largely the same. Those who enjoy just black brewed coffee may find it hard to adjust to espresso drinks. I did! A beer ordered out is generally a pint. A proper pint. Which is about 20oz.

All in all, I had a positive experience. I had hoped to stay after as well, but other things got in my way. I’ve already visited friends in Belfast since graduating and plan to go back many times. Thankful to Across the Pond for their help and happy to say I now have two degrees!

- Steven