We have hundreds of alumni from the US and Canada who contribute to different industries.
Catch up with some of our graduates here.
Degree: Human Rights & Criminal Justice, Class of 2008
Employer: Oxfam International
Current job title: International Humanitarian Law Advisor
Location: New York City, New York
"I chose to study at Queen’s University Belfast to deepen my understanding of the Troubles, transitional justice, and reconciliation in Northern Ireland. I enjoyed exploring human rights systems and transitional justice in class, with standout learning experiences from exceptional professors like Bruce Dickson and Kieran McEvoy.
Beyond academics, I loved Belfast’s vibrant social scene, the Botanic Gardens, and visiting iconic sites like the Giant’s Causeway and the Northern Ireland Assembly. My degree played a pivotal role in shaping my career, leading me to senior positions at organizations like Amnesty International, the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, and Oxfam, where I now lead UN advocacy on humanitarian law. Queen’s provided top-tier facilities, a welcoming community, and an unforgettable experience that continues to shape my professional journey."
Degree: Economics, Class of 2015
Employer: Bloomberg
Current job title: Funds Data Team Lead - Americas
Location: New York City, New York
"I chose to study Economics at Queen’s because I was fascinated by how relationships between supply and demand shape the world, a passion sparked by an inspiring teacher. I wanted a university with culture and character that felt like home—Queen’s fit perfectly. The highlight of my studies was my final-year dissertation, which brought economic theory to life and ultimately helped me land my first role. Now, I manage teams at Bloomberg, developing financial data products that help clients make investment decisions.
My degree’s analytical rigor has been invaluable, especially in strategy and leadership. Beyond academics, Belfast was an incredible experience—I made lifelong friends, embraced my identity in a welcoming space, and found a city that felt alive day and night. It was truly a home away from home, and I always look forward to coming back."
Degree: English, Class of 2016
Violence, Terrorism & Security, Class of 2017
Employer: Department of Foreign Affairs, Government of Ireland
Current job title: Deputy Consul General of Ireland, Los Angeles
Location: Los Angeles, CA
"I initially studied English at Queen’s, but after graduating, I was unsure of my next steps. A friend mentioned the new MA in Violence, Terrorism & Security, and I was intrigued enough to apply. The course covered a fascinating range of topics, from international relations theory to counter-terrorism policy, and I found researching and writing a long-form dissertation particularly rewarding. A standout moment was hearing from former IRA member Patrick Magee and Jo Berry, whose father was killed in the Brighton Bomb—an unforgettable discussion on reconciliation.
After graduating in 2018, I joined Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs as a Junior Diplomat, working across Training & Development, Consular Affairs, and Political Division, including on Ireland’s UN Security Council term and the Afghanistan crisis. In 2022, I was posted to Los Angeles as Deputy Consul General, supporting the Irish community and representing Ireland across the US Southwest. My Queen’s experience—strong research, communication, and organisational skills—has been invaluable in my career.
I spent six incredible years in Belfast, making the most of student life through QUB GAA, Rugby, and Boxing. The city was a dream for students—everything within walking distance, great live music, and a vibrant social scene. Writing from LA, I definitely miss those easy walks to the library or grabbing a coffee without battling traffic! Queen’s felt like home, and I try to visit whenever I’m back in Ireland."