gfkjfdkfdkjfdkfd
'Without Study USA I would not be where I am in my life and career. This programme has tangibly impacted my career prospects. Being in a difference business culture has enabled my commercial roles and new business ventures which will materialize in benefiting the NI economy'
'My time on Study USA holds a special place in my heart. This year marks my 10 year anniversary of moving to Chicago. When I got married in 2024, three of my closest Study USA friends came to the wedding, including one who flew from Chicago. I’m now a dentist with special interest in Oral Surgery, and whilst I don’t use ‘business’ in my daily clinical work, the experience I had in America shaped my career pathway. It ignited my passion for travelling and experiencing other cultures.'
'Study USA was a fantastic experience to join a wonderful international community. As someone who was studying a humanities course in Belfast, I loved being able to expand into alternative subjects. The programme has acted as a pivot to equip myself with commercial skillset which has been a great benefit to my career now. As well as my CV being greatly enchanced, the ability I learned to adapt to a variety of situations has been a great benefit both in my career and other aspects of life.'
'Study USA was an amazing opportunity to try something different. The time spent in the US was valuable in terms of the soft skill development and international experience. I volunteered in Florida during spring break, working in national parks. At college, I was able to do different creative classes including dark room photography and sound design. The business knowledged enabled me to start my own game company Studio Sixtyten; we are currently working with NI Screen and other collaborators.'
'Study USA was a transformative experience, fostering resilience, eloquence, and adaptability-qualities that continue to shape my scholarly and professional journey. The legal principles I explored in the US underpin my current research, while the connections I made offer enduring mentorship and lifelong friendships. I am profoundly grateful for the experience.'
'The Study USA programme has given me so much confidence and allowed me to explore a completely new subject area I'd never experienced before. After graduating, I found it really beneficial to highlight the business skills I'd picked up outside of my degree subject and feel it helps stand me apart from other candidates at interview. Having an international perspective has helped me endlessly my career in the UK Government working closely on Northern Ireland.'
'Returning to St. Thomas for the alumni Christmas lunch brought back the university's core values that shaped my experience there. President Vischer's emphasis on relationships reminded me of the community I found at St. Thomas, one that fosters empathy, respect, and open dialogue. These values continue to resonate with me and influence my approach to both personal and professional interactions.'
'The Study USA programme helped me gained independence and immerse myself in American culture. I joined the media team, operating cameras at sports games and live-streaming events. Before heading to the US, I worked as a Trainee Assistant Director on Dungeons and Dragons with Paramount Pictures. Since returning, I've continued my career in Film & TV, working as a Base Production Assistant on How to Train Your Dragon. Study USA helped me build essential networking skills, crucial for my career.'
'Study USA opened my eyes to how big the world is and helped me move beyond my small-town mindset. It wasn’t just a professional experience; it was personal growth. It gave me the confidence to take risks, like moving to New York on my own. Getting my job was all about making connections and being proactive. After finishing my degree, I knew I wanted to work in a field that bridged the UK and US markets, and that’s when I connected with the Study USA alumni network, which led me to my role.'
'The Study USA scholarship has been a life-changing opportunity. I spent my fall semester at Ohio Wesleyan University, focusing on entrepreneurship, while immersing myself in the Columbus Fashion District. In spring, I gained hands-on experience in New York's fashion capital. This experience boosted my creativity, employability, and international perspective. It pushed me out of my comfort zone, and I am confident it will help me achieve my dream of working in sustainable fashion.'