Three Derry students head to US for prestigious Study USA programme
Natalie Parkhill, Emma McCarron and Sadie Sturgeon are among 60 students from Northern Ireland taking part in the programme
Three Derry students are embarking on the opportunity of a lifetime this month, as they travel to the United States to take part in the prestigious Study USA scholarship programme.
Natalie Parkhill, Emma McCarron and Sadie Sturgeon are among 60 students from Northern Ireland taking part in the programme, which gives participants the opportunity to spend a full academic year at an American college or university.
Managed by the British Council on behalf of the Department for the Economy, this year’s cohort includes students from South Eastern Regional College, Queen’s University Belfast, St Mary’s University College, Belfast Metropolitan College, and Ulster University. They will be placed at institutions across 24 states — from Texas to Washington, and Florida to Nebraska.
The Study USA programme receives significant support from partner institutions in the United States, with annual funding exceeding more than €2 million. The generous scholarship package includes accommodation on campus, a full meal plan, tuition fees, book allowance, flights and a £1k bursary.
Natalie, from Limavady, is currently a student at Ulster University studying Geography. She will spend her year at Aquinas College in Michigan.
Speaking ahead of her departure, she said: “I chose the Study USA programme because it offers a unique opportunity to experience life in America and fully immerse myself in a different academic and cultural environment. I've always been interested in the US, and this programme allows me to broaden my education by studying subjects outside my home course while gaining new perspectives and learning in a completely different setting. It's also a chance to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and develop a deeper understanding of the world around me.
“I’m most excited about meeting new people, exploring different parts of the USA, and embracing both the academic and social sides of this experience. I’m a bit nervous about adjusting to the differences in the education system, especially the smaller class sizes and closer relationships with professors, but I see that as a positive challenge.
“When I return, I’ll have one year of university left. While I’m still exploring my options, I know I want to pursue a career in geography and use my skills to make a positive impact both locally and globally. Study USA is a step toward preparing for that future."
Meanwhile, Emma McCarron and Sadie Sturgeon, both from the city of Derry, are heading to Pennsylvania. Emma, currently studies Personalised Medicine at Ulster University and is off Misericordia University, while Sadie, a Law student at Queen’s University Belfast, has secured a spot at DeSales University.
Sadie said: “Having chosen to study at a university close to home, I was eager to find opportunities for further travel and study abroad. The Study USA scholarship appealed to me because it offered the chance to experience a different college system and community for a full academic year - unlike other single-semester options available through Queen’s.
60 pupils from across Northern Ireland will make up the 2025-26 Study USA cohort
Launched in 1994 to support the Northern Ireland peace process, Study USA has been running for over 30 years.
Praising the programme’s long running success Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald said: “The Study USA programme offers an invaluable opportunity for students to grow academically, professionally, and personally. It also plays a crucial role in expanding students’ horizons and shaping future leaders as well as promoting positive perceptions of the north. I wish our students taking part this year all the very best on what I’m sure will be a great experience.”
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Mary Mallon, Head of Education, British Council Northern Ireland, added: “Study USA offers students a truly life-changing opportunity - one that goes far beyond academics. As well as gaining valuable experience in the classroom, they’re encouraged to immerse themselves in a new culture, build lasting friendships and really make the most of everyday life in the US.
“From joining clubs and societies to volunteering and connecting with local people, students gain new perspectives and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. These are the kinds of experiences that build confidence, adaptability, and global awareness - qualities that are hugely important in today’s interconnected world.
“We’re incredibly proud of this year’s cohort and confident they will embrace every opportunity, represent Northern Ireland with pride, and return home with fresh ideas, new skills and memories that will last a lifetime.”
Applications for the 2026–27 programme open in September 2025.
For more information, visit: nireland.britishcouncil.org/opportunities/study-usa