A Day in the Life of Jamie Lucas Campbell: A Fellow’s Journey in Belfast
Meet Jamie Lucas Campbell, one of our 2024 – 2025 Fellows, who made the bold move from New York City to Belfast, Northern Ireland, to pursue a PhD in African American and Queer Studies. Jamie’s research dives deep into the history of belonging, particularly through the lens of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. In this video, Jamie shares a slice of life in Belfast—blending academics, personal moments, and the beauty of living abroad.
From New York to Belfast: A New Perspective
Jamie kicks off the day with a walk through the Titanic Quarter, one of Belfast’s most iconic waterfront areas. As a New Yorker, Jamie points out how different the air feels in Belfast—calmer and quieter compared to the constant hum of city life back home. It’s a welcome change.
And the seagulls? Well, they’re a bit of an unexpected delight. “In the mornings, it’s the sound of seagulls, not honking taxis or subway rumbles,” Jamie laughs, reflecting on the small, peaceful moments that come with being in a new place.
A Look at Campus and Lectures
A big part of Jamie’s daily routine is their academic life. After soaking in the breathtaking views, they head to campus, where their office sits right in the heart of Belfast’s academic district. On this particular day, Jamie is balancing some writing with attending a lecture by an African philosopher on decolonizing philosophy. The lecture’s focus on understanding philosophy from an African perspective really resonates with Jamie’s own research and adds depth to their studies.
The Irish Tradition: A Pint of Guinness
No day in Belfast would be complete without experiencing the local culture. After a busy day of writing and lectures, Jamie heads to a local pub to grab a pint of Guinness. It’s these simple moments that add so much to the experience of living in Belfast, making Jamie feel more connected to the culture and the community.
Why Living Abroad Matters
Living abroad is about more than just academics. It’s about diving into a new culture, gaining fresh perspectives, and challenging yourself in ways you never expected. Jamie’s journey is a perfect example of how studying abroad can open your eyes to new ideas, broaden your understanding of the world, and help you grow both personally and professionally.
Jamie’s story is a reminder of how transformative studying abroad can be—not just for your education but for your own personal development. If Jamie’s experience has inspired you, maybe it’s time to think about what studying abroad could do for you too. Whether it’s a semester, a year, or an entire PhD, there’s a whole world of experiences waiting to be explored.
Looking for more inspiration or want to learn about similar opportunities? Reach out and start planning your own adventure abroad.