Biological Sciences (Foundation degree delivered at Belfast Metropolitan College, Titanic Quarter campus) - NA

Queen's University Belfast

As an international student, I truly feel welcomed and supported by my classmates and professors. From the beginning, they have been kind, patient, and encouraging, which has helped me adapt to a new academic and social environment with confidence. There are many opportunities for us to speak, share our ideas, and actively participate in both academic discussions and wider community activities. In classes, we are encouraged to ask questions and express different perspectives. Outside the classroom, there are also events, societies, and volunteering activities that allow us to become involved in the local community. These experiences not only improve my communication skills but also help me feel that I am part of the society here, rather than just a visitor. I am grateful for the inclusive atmosphere and the support I have received, which has made my journey as an international student meaningful and rewarding.

I really enjoy the student life and experience. Clubs and societies are great and there’s a great effort being made towards student safety

There are facilities for all students and staff which cbs be used every day. For example, there are many libraries, labs, seating areas, food and drink stations, computers etc. The staff (lecturers, SU staff and support teams) are helpful, easy to talk to and have a passion for ensuring that students feel supported and encouraged. I feel like I can easily talk to someone if I needed to. Studying is made easy with recap of knowledge, emails and contacts to chat to people and lecture notes which staff can provide. Additionally, the fact that they record lectures is good as it allows me to understand what I’m learning. The student experience is amazing. I have made so many new friends from my course but also from societies that the student union run. Not only does this allow me to develop and maintain my hobbies, it means I am constantly exposed to new people who share the same interests as me. I also really love the aesthetic of the university. It’s a beautiful place with amazing views. I think the fact that Queen’s is so close to the city centre is also a good thing as it means that my friends and I can go to and from shops and explore the city a lot more. The scenery is gorgeous as well. I love how close it is to the botanic gardens. If I could improve anything about the university, all I would do is add more seating. I know there’s hundreds or thousands of locations for students to relax or study at but, especially in the SU, it can get crowded really easily at certain times or when there is bad weather.

All professors and lectures are friendly staff who offer a wide range of support and adittional help for all students to make use of. Switch all lectures to using a barcode at start of lectures to make signing attendence easier

Different faculty buildings are very unique in terms of design and overall structure. Everything is within walking distance i.e. Belfast city (including student accommodation) is as far as 30min walk Buildings withing QUB campus are up to 10mins walk Places to study vary but overall very good. The only disadvantage is during exam season where everyone is on campus working so finding a spot can be difficult (like finding a car parking spot during busy hours). Staff are very vocal about student support... when you seek it. When you don't seek support (especially when you don't realise you need it) it feels like there isn't any available.