Ballymena and Antrim students jet off for prestigious Study USA programme

(L-R) Sarah MacFarlane (Ballymena), Ellie Mayne (Antrim), Sarah Donaghy (Antrim), Katie McClean (Antrim) and Emily McCaughey (Ballymena) are set for a year in the US through the British Council’s Study USA programme.

Five Ulster University & Queen’s University students from Ballymena and Antrim are among 60 from Northern Ireland heading to the United States for a life-changing academic year as part of the prestigious Study USA programme.

Run by the British Council on behalf of the Department for the Economy, the scheme places students at colleges and universities across 24 US states — from Texas to Washington, and Florida to Nebraska.

This year’s local cohort includes Sarah MacFarlane from Ballymena, Emily McCaughey from Ballymena, and Ellie Mayne from Antrim, Katie McClean from Antrim, and Sarah Donaghy from Antrim, each preparing to embark on a transformative academic and cultural journey.

“A chance to grow independently” – Sarah McFarlane (Ballymena)

Sarah McFarlane

Sarah, a Food and Nutrition student at Ulster University and former Cambridge House pupil, will spend her year at Morningside University in Iowa.

She said:

“I applied for the Study USA programme because, as a twin, I’ve often been seen as part of a pair. I wanted the opportunity to grow independently, challenge myself, and be known simply as ‘Sarah’ - with my own strengths, interests, and identity.

“As a Food and Nutrition student at Ulster University, I’m especially excited to explore how nutrition is taught and understood in the US, from classroom learning to real-world habits and public health priorities. I’ll also be taking business classes for the first time, which could open up new ways of combining nutrition with entrepreneurship.

“When I return home, I plan to complete my final year and then apply for the PGCE programme to become a secondary school Food and Nutrition teacher. This experience will give me fresh insight, broaden my subject knowledge, and help me develop the confidence and adaptability that are so important in the classroom. I want to be the kind of teacher who inspires and supports students beyond the curriculum - just like the teachers who shaped my own journey.”

“A surreal opportunity” – Emily McCaughey

Em McCaughey

Em (Ballymena), a Cinematic Arts student at Ulster University and past pupil of Ballymena Academy, is heading to Shenandoah University in Virginia.

She explained:

“I applied for the Study USA programme because it seemed like a great opportunity - even though I thought it was a long shot, I figured it was worth a try. Getting a place feels surreal, and I’m so excited for the year ahead.

“This experience will really benefit me in my Cinematic Arts degree. I’m passionate about filmmaking, and I believe that richer life experiences lead to better stories. I’m also hoping to learn more about the US film industry and gain insights I can apply back home.

“When I return, I plan to get as much experience in the film industry as possible. I’m especially passionate about becoming a producer and can’t wait to start building toward that goal.”

“Boosting confidence and independence” – Ellie Mayne (Antrim)

Ellie Mayne

Ellie, a Social Policy with Sociology student at Ulster University and former Antrim Grammar School pupil, will study at Mount Mary University in Wisconsin.

She said:

“I’ve always been interested in American culture and saw this programme as a great way to boost my employability and develop skills like confidence and independence. I’m really excited to experience a new culture and meet new people, although I’m a bit nervous about travelling alone and putting myself out there in the first few days.

“This opportunity will benefit me by helping me adapt to a new environment with different academic standards, and by encouraging me to build relationships with peers and staff to make the most of my time. I’m looking forward to using everything I learn to shape my future career and personal growth.”

“Once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” – Katie McClean (Antrim)

Katie McClean

Meanwhile, Queen’s University student Katie, a past pupil of St Louis Grammar School in Ballymena, is heading to Dominican University in Illinois.

She added:

“Study USA is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity — a chance to study abroad with the generous support of the British Council. I was eager to experience the cultural and educational differences of the US and to help raise awareness of Northern Ireland and its history.

“I’m most excited about the classes - I’ve chosen everything from Economic Thought and Quantitative Analysis to an introductory Fashion Design course! I’m a little nervous about sharing a room with two others, but I know it’s a great way to build new friendships.

“This programme will help me become more resilient, independent, and culturally aware. I’ll also be studying leadership, public speaking, and entrepreneurship, which I hope will give me a competitive edge after university. When I return, I’ll finish my final year and hope to pursue a career in finance — possibly in risk management or analysis.”

A long-running success

Sarah Donaghy

First launched in 1994 to support the Northern Ireland peace process, Study USA has given over 2,500 students the chance to experience US education and culture. The programme provides a scholarship package worth over €2 million annually, covering tuition, accommodation, meals, flights, book allowance and a £1,000 bursary.

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald praised its impact:

“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.”

60 students from across Northern Ireland taking part in the Study USA programme

Mary Mallon, Head of Education at the British Council Northern Ireland, added:

“Congratulations to the students. 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.”

Applications for the 2026–27 Study USA programme open in September 2025.

For details, visit: nireland.britishcouncil.org/opportunities/study-usa