Student Experience

 

On-Site Orientation

All N.U.in Northern Ireland students participate in a multi-day orientation once they arrive. This orientation will introduce you to your new neighborhood, review the student services available, and build community among the group. Workshops regarding housing, safety, and navigating the city are just a few sessions planned once you arrive. You will also have a chance to explore the city of Belfast during various tour opportunities.

Culture & Identity Abroad

For more identity resources and information, see our Culture & Identity Abroad section.

Transportation

Public transportation in Belfast includes accessible buses and trains. The Translink bus service and NI Railways provide information on accessible routes and services. All Translink buses are low-floor and wheelchair accessible, and the Luas tram system is fully wheelchair accessible with step-free access at all tram stations. Taxis with wheelchair access are also available. For those who prefer cycling, the city offers bike lanes, and it is recommended to use high-visibility clothing and helmets.​

Belfast is generally pedestrian-friendly, with the university located just a 15-minute walk from the city center. Walking to all major shopping and tourist attractions within the city is convenient. Additionally, students can purchase “Y-Link” passes at a special student rate for discounted travel on Translink buses and trains.

We encourage you to connect with The N.U.in Program to discuss any mobility or disability concerns.

Activities

One of the goals of The N.U.in Program is to foster and develop a strong community among its members. Students will experience one overnight excursion and multiple cultural excursions as part of the program. The host institution and N.U.in staff will plan weekly free or low-cost activities, which vary year-to-year.

In the past, students have participated in several types of activities. Examples include: Belfast Castle, Titanic Belfast, St. George’s Market, Giant’s Causeway, Derry and Londonderry, Game of Thrones tours, Belfast Film Festival, Queen’s Film Theatre, Botanic Gardens, and Belfast Giant’s Hockey.

There is a lot also happening on campus as Queen’s has over 200 student-led clubs and societies to explore. Check out this video to see N.U.in Northern Ireland program highlights!

N.U.in Program Traditions: N.U.in Traditions are popular events and activities that are held across all N.U.in sites:

• Family Group Dinners: The Student Success Coordinators will organize a “family dinner” about once a month for their family group to get students to experience the cuisine of their host city with their fellow N.U.in cohort.
• First Day of School Photos: Students will be provided with a space to reflect on the momentous first day of their academic career at Northeastern University by taking photos with Husky-themed props.
• N.U.in Husky Day: Husky Day will provide opportunities for students to connect with the campus in Boston, as well as other N.U.in students across sites by sharing in a day of Northeastern pride!
• N.U.in Thanksgiving: Students will have the opportunity to build community by celebrating a traditional American holiday with the N.U.in students at their site.
• Community Council: Each N.U.in location will have a student-led group known as Community Council or more commonly referred to by students as “Coco.” This student leadership council is charged with representing the student voice on-site and gathering programming interests for their cohort. Information on getting involved with the Community Council will be made available during your on-site orientation.