Local student flying the flag in the US

LOCAL student Laura McAlister has just received last minute advice and information at her pre-departure meeting in Belfast, before preparing to spend a year in the US as part of the Business Education Initiative (BEI).

The British Council, which is the UK’s international organisation for educational opportunities and cultural relations, manages BEI on behalf of the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL).

The students will study for a year in American colleges, where they will gain valuable international experience and business knowledge which will help to develop their management and leadership skills for their return to Northern Ireland and future careers.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Laura, who is from Glenariffe, is currently studying mathematics at St Mary’s University College.

She was part of a group of 100 Northern Ireland students who were chosen for the scholarships after undergoing a competitive selection process to take part in the prestigious programme.

Speaking today, Karen McCormack, of the British Council said: “Our students are full of excitement as they make their final preparations for a year of study in the US.

“This international opportunity to study in a US classroom where they will learn new business subjects, from professors who are often experts in their field, is totally priceless. Employability skills will be enhanced through internships, Ambassadorial presentations, and volunteer work.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“The development of new interests and passions will be encouraged and entrepreneurial flair nurtured, giving our students a competitive edge for their future careers in an increasingly international work context,” she said.