Ballymena student urges others to apply for life-changing Study USA scholarship
- Love Ballymena
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Northern Regional College student Luke Kirkwood, who was awarded the Spirit Award at this year’s Study USA graduation ceremony.
A Ballymena student who spent an academic year studying in the United States through the Study USA scholarship programme is encouraging other eligible students to consider applying, describing the experience as “an opportunity that can genuinely change your future”.
Luke Kirkwood, an Electrical and Electronic Engineering student at Northern Regional College, took part in the Study USA programme last year and was awarded the Study USA Spirit Award at this year’s graduation ceremony, recognising his engagement, leadership and contribution during his time in the US.
Managed by the British Council on behalf of the Department for the Economy, Study USA enables students to spend an academic year at one of more than 140 universities and colleges across over 20 US states.
The programme is open to Further Education students in the first year of a Higher National Diploma (HND) or foundation degree, as well as those in the second year of undergraduate study.
Luke completed his Study USA year at Shenandoah University in Virginia, where he was recognised for his positive involvement in campus life. During his time there, he mentored international students and actively participated in cultural and student organisations, helping him integrate quickly and build lasting connections.
Reflecting on his experience, Luke said:
“When I first arrived in Virginia, I was full of nerves and uncertainty. But by saying ‘yes’ to campus events, new friendships and opportunities, I found a deep sense of belonging. Study USA helped me grow into someone more open, resilient and grounded. I left with lasting friendships, unforgettable memories and the confidence to face whatever comes next.”
He added:
“Being awarded the Study USA Spirit Award was an incredible honour and something I’m really proud of. I would strongly encourage other FE students to apply – it’s an opportunity that can genuinely change your future.”
Alongside studying subjects aligned to their home degree, students on the programme can choose additional modules in areas such as Entrepreneurship, Leadership, Communications, Marketing and Modern Languages, broadening their academic and professional skillsets.
The programme receives significant backing from partner institutions in the United States, with annual funding of more than €2.3 million.
The scholarship package includes tuition fees, on-campus accommodation, a full meal plan, flights, a book allowance and a £1,000 bursary, helping to remove financial barriers for participants.
Mary Mallon, Head of Education at British Council Northern Ireland, said:
“Study USA is one of the most impactful international opportunities available to students in Northern Ireland; we see their increased confidence and a broader global mindset when they return. The programme opens doors for participants, helping them build personal and professional networks, and develop skills that last a lifetime.
“Stories like Luke’s are inspirational and show just how powerful the experience can be. Further Education students are a perfect fit for the programme, and I would strongly encourage anyone who is eligible to consider applying. Study USA offers a unique chance to experience life and study in the United States while developing the skills and global outlook that employers value.”
Study USA is funded by the Department for the Economy and supported by the Skills Fund, delivering the Minister’s Economic Vision.
Further Education students have until Sunday, 4 January 2026 to apply.
To find out more about the programme and eligibility criteria, visit:
The British Council is the UK’s leading cultural relations organisation, creating global opportunities in arts and culture, education and the English language. For more information on current opportunities in Northern Ireland, visit nireland.britishcouncil.org, or follow the British Council on X, Facebook or Instagram.