'BEI afforded me opportunities to experience life outside the lens of Northern Ireland. At a time of great uncertainty and conflict, I was shown another way of life. This kick started a lifelong love of travel, along with a strong desire to bring the best of my experiences and knowledge home. The self reliance, self confidence and bountiful experiences have fed into my career and life here at home. I developed a global mindset, which has been an asset in my professional journey.'
'There are common pivotal points in our lives that we can share together, some universal, others have more of a personal impact but with a lesser degree of empathy. Study USA is one of those privileged opportunities. Its impact is not neatly defined. Nearly 30 years after experiencing a lifetime in a year, it continues to be a constant foundation and a positive momentum in both work and life.'
'The Study USA programme had a profound impact on my career. It shifted my focus from geography to business, especially marketing and international law, which set me on a new path. Afterward, I pursued postgraduate qualifications and worked in various roles at Ulster University, including director of engagement. Now, I run my own coaching business, specialising in leadership and team coaching. The programme broadened my worldview, helping me think globally and create opportunities for others.'
'Studying abroad was a game-changer for me. I travelled to the US, met incredible people, and gained confidence through unexpected opportunities, like public speaking. Today, as a news presenter at LBC and TRT World, I combine my love of travel with my career, covering global news, especially US politics. I owe much of my success to the people I met along the way. My advice: be confident, take chances, and seize every opportunity—there's a world of possibilities waiting.'
'At the time of applying, I thought it was just a way to enhance my CV. But halfway through, I realised it was opening doors I hadn’t anticipated. After returning home, I landed a job at Enterprise Rent-a-Car in the US, where their management training programme laid the foundation for my career in leadership. The Study USA programme was pivotal in shaping my career and providing me with opportunities I never expected, ultimately leading to my appointment as Honorary Consul of Ireland for Ohio.'
'St. John's University in Minnesota, set on 3,000 acres of beautiful landscape, offered a unique experience for me as a participant in the Reserve Officer Training Corps programme. Military science courses, daily 5am runs, and intense training shaped my experience. BEI impacted my career as an IB consultant and personally, helping me develop empathy and adaptability. Living in Korea, Russia, and the Middle East, I’ve gained understanding and insight into diverse perspectives.'
'I was immediately drawn to BEI while studying Biochemistry, eager to explore new subjects. During my year I lived in downtown Boston, near the Red Sox stadium, and had the chance to study with students from around the world. I developed a passion for business, which shifted my career path. After returning home, I completed a summer placement at EY and eventually worked there. Thanks to BEI, I now have a career as a chartered accountant, along with increased confidence and lasting friendships.'
'Hearing about Study USA from older students, I saw it as a great chance to travel, study in America, and explore business, which broadened my career options. I studied at Adrian College, Michigan, where I took various classes, made new friends, and travelled, including spending NYE in NYC. The experience made me more independent, enhanced my cultural awareness, and boosted my confidence. Although I don’t work in law or business, the skills I gained shaped my career and thinking.'
My year at the University of Portland allowed me to travel all over the US, experiencing a variety of different cultures. Although I studied law in Belfast, having the opportunity to broaden my academic horizons on BEI went on to influence my future career choice. I studied a human resources module for the first time, with HR being the focus of my career since. The academic variety, travels and new friendships were unlike anything I’d experienced before.
'During my time on the Study USA programme at Centenary College in Louisiana, I was able to combine my love for sport with a growing interest in broadcasting. While there, I worked at the college radio station, which sparked my passion for sports journalism. Before that, I had considered teaching, but this experience shifted my focus. It ultimately led me to pursue a career in broadcasting, and today, I’m working at BBC Sport Northern Ireland, covering the sports I’ve always loved.'