Why did I apply?
Leaving behind my home, family, friends and university for a year wasn't exactly easy. But here is why I did.
Knowing that we should strive to promote integration and sharing, caring communities, I knew that to live in such an integrated community whilst abroad in the US would be a wonderful experience which no doubt would inspire me to promote inclusivity and integration as the norm. A shared future is the hope for my country, one which promises to heal the still-painful wounds of a bitter past.
I felt compelled to apply for a Study USA scholarship for many reasons. Prior to entering my penultimate year at university, I was fortunate enough to gain a scholarship to study at a LEF summer school in Croatia, studying 'Liberty'. During that experience, I was honoured to act in an ambassadorial capacity for both my university and Northern Ireland. Appreciating the unique and historical relationship between the US and Northern Ireland, I knew I would be very privileged to not only represent my country but also glean an understanding of the diversity of American culture and society. (I would never have the athletic talent to represent my country at the Olympics, alas.) Furthermore, it would be extremely interesting to enhance my knowledge of American history and politics and to draw parallels with the political systems of the UK and NI.
Understanding the historical background of the programme and its continuing relevance of issues still prevalent in NI, I wanted to witness first-hand the cultural integration and diversity of the US. I was curious to see how people from all walks of life and multiple backgrounds could come together under the banner of a shared American nationality and identity. I believed I would return home an enlightened person, having not only witnessed but also lived in a thriving and diverse community where students from a variety of backgrounds can study, live and grow together. I desired to disseminate this knowledge and my experiences through acquired leadership and communication skills, thereby making a difference to my local community. The sincere motive of the programme I believed - and continue to believe - is that of inspiring young people to adopt the teamwork and leadership skills required to end discrimination and segregation in Northern Ireland. Knowing that we should strive to promote integration and sharing, caring communities, I knew that to live in such an integrated community whilst abroad in the US would be a wonderful experience which no doubt would inspire me to promote inclusivity and integration as the norm. A shared future is the hope for my country, one which promises to heal the still-painful wounds of a bitter past.
I have always been a motivated, conscientious student and knew I would relish the opportunity to actively participate in a new educational system centred on student interaction. Such an interactive and stimulating class environment ensures that students are encouraged to reach their full potential and are challenged in terms of provided work and also in independent thought and research. Mutual respect of views and opinions is acknowledged during discussions and debates which only ensures fruitful discussion and so the enhancing of understanding. As such, I knew I would be an active participant in such classes, especially as this system of education is quite different to the system I had been previously educated in.
Furthermore, I would relish the opportunity to immerse myself in campus life both educationally and socially. Having been actively involved in many societies at my home university including volunteering, mentoring and holding several elected positions of responsibility, I would show the same enthusiasm and commitment abroad.
Understanding the historical background of the programme and its continuing relevance of issues still prevalent in NI, I wanted to witness first-hand the cultural integration and diversity of the US. I was curious to see how people from all walks of life and multiple backgrounds could come together under the banner of a shared American nationality and identity. I believed I would return home an enlightened person, having not only witnessed but also lived in a thriving and diverse community where students from a variety of backgrounds can study, live and grow together. I desired to disseminate this knowledge and my experiences through acquired leadership and communication skills, thereby making a difference to my local community. The sincere motive of the programme I believed - and continue to believe - is that of inspiring young people to adopt the teamwork and leadership skills required to end discrimination and segregation in Northern Ireland. Knowing that we should strive to promote integration and sharing, caring communities, I knew that to live in such an integrated community whilst abroad in the US would be a wonderful experience which no doubt would inspire me to promote inclusivity and integration as the norm. A shared future is the hope for my country, one which promises to heal the still-painful wounds of a bitter past.
I have always been a motivated, conscientious student and knew I would relish the opportunity to actively participate in a new educational system centred on student interaction. Such an interactive and stimulating class environment ensures that students are encouraged to reach their full potential and are challenged in terms of provided work and also in independent thought and research. Mutual respect of views and opinions is acknowledged during discussions and debates which only ensures fruitful discussion and so the enhancing of understanding. As such, I knew I would be an active participant in such classes, especially as this system of education is quite different to the system I had been previously educated in.
Furthermore, I would relish the opportunity to immerse myself in campus life both educationally and socially. Having been actively involved in many societies at my home university including volunteering, mentoring and holding several elected positions of responsibility, I would show the same enthusiasm and commitment abroad.