Former students say the scholarship program has changed the lives of Northern Irish students who have had the opportunity to study in the United States.
Since 1994, more than 2,000 students from Northern Ireland have studied at US universities as part of the Study USA programme. Approximately 500 Study USA alumni gathered at his SSE Arena Belfast for Saturday’s Friendship Series ice hockey game.
The game between Princeton University and Providence University is 30 days Anniversary year for this important scholarship program.
emma allsop The Queen’s University student and 2023 Study USA Student of The Year said the scholarship award changed her life.
she said: “Study USA was life-changing for me. Great to see so many faces here for the 30-man kick-offth Anniversary and meeting many alumni of the program. Sports are a big part of American college life, and it’s great to celebrate Study USA by watching the Friendship Series with alumni. ”
Martin Bradley, who was part of the first group to travel to the US and now works in international investment and cybersecurity in the US and Northern Ireland, said the STUDY USA program had an impact on his entire career. Ta.
He originally studied at Ulster University and moved to Lindenwood University in Missouri in 1994. He then worked for Invest NI and a Fortune 500 company, leading the strategic effort to establish Belfast as Europe’s new hub for cybersecurity.
He said: “Thirty years ago, when I went to Missouri for Study USA, little did I know what a lasting impact this experience would have on me both professionally and personally.
“I have traveled all over the country working, building connections and developing new business opportunities, which has helped my career both here in Northern Ireland and around the world.
“Today I met with old friends and heard from recent graduates about how this program has helped them advance their studies and careers. I hope this program continues to inspire the lives of our participants. , there is no doubt that it will enrich you.”
Martin is the new Study USA Alumni Committee Chair. This scholarship program was originally designed to support the peace process.
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The White House supported the program in a letter written by President Bill Clinton in 2014. The program has helped develop important links between Northern Ireland and the United States, strengthening cultural and economic links and understanding between the two countries.
The scholarship funding package, worth around £45,000 ($57,200), includes room and board for the academic year, a generous textbook allowance and one return flight to the US. The new Alumni Committee will focus on philanthropy in line with Study USA’s philosophy, with a series of activities planned over the next 18 months aimed at giving back to Northern Ireland and the United States.
The event was hosted by the British Council Northern Ireland and the Department for the Economy.
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