Craig jets off for good relations trip to America

AN Ulster University student from Tyrone has jetted off to America for a Good Friday Agreement anniversary project.

Craig Miller, 21, from Benburb is studying a BSc Honours degree in Business Studies and, as of this year, has become the School of Global Business and Enterprise Student Representative for the Ulster University Students Union.

Earlier this year, before US President Joe Biden visited Ulster University, a project called ‘America! Here, Then and Now’ was announced to the students. This project gave a limited number of students the opportunity to see the states and study on the University of Minnesota campus.

When Craig seen this opportunity he applied, thinking little would come if it.

“I saw the opportunity a few weeks before President Biden visited Ulster University to open our new Belfast Campus and I applied, thinking there was no way I would be selected but low and behold, after many interview sessions and different forms of applications, I was selected!” he said.

Ten students including Craig jetted off to the States on Friday past for five weeks of learning at the Duluth campus, where they will also be residing. The students will undergo classes on good relations and peace as part of the landmark anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement.

Speaking on what the agreement means to young people, Craig said, “To me, the Good Friday Agreement means that people of Northern Ireland can live without fear, and be free. Ever since attending Integrated College Dungannon, I was taught to welcome everyone of all faiths and religion, have respect for each other and this has impacted my ability to understand the importance of integration throughout education in Northern Ireland.”

To say the young student is looking forward to his exclusive trip to America is a bit of an understatement.

“I am so excited for this opportunity!” he said. “I have never been in America before and can’t wait to see what the lifestyle is like out there.”