Newry students head to US for prestigious Study USA programme
Six students from Newry are embarking on the opportunity of a lifetime this month, as they travel to the United States to take part in the prestigious Study USA scholarship programme
They are among 60 students from Northern Ireland taking part in the programme, which gives participants the opportunity to spend a full academic year at an American college or university.
Managed by the British Council on behalf of the Department for the Economy, this year’s cohort includes students from South Eastern Regional College, Queen’s University Belfast, St Mary’s University College, Belfast Metropolitan College, and Ulster University. They will be placed at institutions across 24 states — from Texas to Washington, and Florida to Nebraska.
They include Shanice McParland, a Business Studies student at Ulster University. She will spend her year at Edgewood College, Wisconsin.
A past pupil at St Paul's High School in Bessbrook, she said: “I decided to apply for Study USA because I thought it was an amazing opportunity to study in America. When I was offered a place on the programme, I couldn’t turn it down—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I’m so excited to see what it entails. I’m most looking forward to living the American college lifestyle and making new friendships in the dorms and classrooms.
“I think this experience will really help build my confidence, especially in the classroom through engaging in smaller classes. It’s also a great opportunity to make new connections while I’m in the US. When I return home, I plan to finish my final year and possibly go on to a postgraduate degree in Accounting to pursue that career path.”
Meanwhile, Tara Phillips, who went to Our Lady's Grammar School, is currently studying Psychology at Queen’s University Belfast. She has secured a spot at North Carolina Wesleyan University in North Carolina.
She added: “I’ve always loved travelling and trying new things, so when I found out about the Study USA programme, I couldn’t say no. The chance to live and study in a completely different part of the world really excited me. I know this experience will help me stand out professionally, but it’ll also push me to grow personally. Moving so far from home is a big step, but I’m ready for the adventure.
“I’m really excited to meet new people, explore new places, and study subjects I wouldn’t normally get to at home. I’m hoping to get involved with clubs and teams on campus, and I can’t wait to travel to different parts of the U.S. while I’m there.
“As a second-year psychology student, I’m looking forward to trying something completely different. Studying in the U.S. will give me the opportunity to explore new subjects and see how psychology connects with other fields, especially business, which really interests me.”
The generous scholarship package includes accommodation on campus, a full meal plan, tuition fees, book allowance, flights and a £1k bursary.
Launched in 1994 to support the Northern Ireland peace process, Study USA has been running for over 30 years.
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald said: “The Study USA programme offers an invaluable opportunity for students to grow academically, professionally, and personally. It also plays a crucial role in expanding students’ horizons and shaping future leaders as well as promoting positive perceptions of the north.”