For International Students Find Your Buddy

Juny Alex Paul

MSc Construction Management at Belfast Campus

Campus and Course of Study

• MSc Construction Management at Belfast Campus.

Home Country

• India

Interests and hobbies

I enjoy discovering new interests and staying active. In my free time, you’ll often find me listening to music, watching movies, reading or playing badminton. I’ve been passionate about sports from a young age, and I’ve been playing badminton for over six years – it’s a great way to stay fit and have fun!

My favourite movies are Interstellar and Avengers – I love stories that spark imagination and adventure. My favourite artist would have to be Michael Jackson – I’m addicted to his songs! As for my favourite book – Harry Potter will always be a favourite of mine.

I am passionate about helping others. As someone who understands how challenging it can be to adapt to a new environment, I’d love to support you as an international student through any obstacles and challenges you might face.

Bilal Ishaq

MSc LLM Corporate Law, Computing and Innovation at Belfast Campus

Campus and Course of Study

• MSc LLM Corporate Law, Computing and Innovation at Belfast Campus

Home Country

• Pakistan

Interests and hobbies

I love meeting new people – it’s a wonderful opportunity to share cultural perspectives and build meaningful connections. In my free time, I enjoy exploring new places. Since moving to Belfast, I’ve had the chance to discover some amazing places like Botanic Gardens, the Giant’s Causeway, Bangor and Derry/Londonderry – each with its own unique charm and rich history. I’m also passionate about law, reading and cooking - especially quick and tasty meals. I also love spending time outdoors with friends.

When I first arrived in Northern Ireland, I faced many challenges as everything was unfamiliar. That’s why I’m excited to welcome you to Ulster – helping to make your transition smoother and making sure you feel welcome!

Olaitan Kamal Babalola

MSc Biomedical Engineering at Belfast Campus

Campus and Course of Study

• MSc Biomedical Engineering at Belfast Campus

Home Country

• Nigeria

Interests and hobbies

I am passionate about travelling, reading, volunteering and playing tennis. I have been playing tennis for seven years – it’s a great way for me to stay active, unwind while enjoying some healthy competition.

Volunteering is also a big part of my life. I find it incredibly rewarding to contribute to meaningful causes that matter and connect within my community. I mainly volunteer through Health Outreach and the charity organisations. I love exploring different cultures and cities as it exposes me to new countries and ideas – it’s a powerful way to gain new perspectives of life. When I first arrived in Northern Ireland, my student buddy made a huge difference by taking me under their wing. Now, I would love to do the same for you – to help you settle in, feel welcome and make the most of your time at Ulster!

Saima Norien

LLM Corporate Law, Computing, and Innovation at Belfast campus

Campus and Course of Study

• LLM Corporate Law, Computing, and Innovation at Belfast campus.

Home Country

• Pakistan

Interests and hobbies

I love reading novels – some of my favourites are Harry Potter, The Alchemist by my favourite author Paula Coelho and Pride and Prejudice. I also enjoy meeting new people, spending time with friends and cooking! I specialise in Desi dishes, especially biryani, Kabuli Pulao, and Chinese-style fried rice.

Travelling and hiking are passions of mine. I love experiencing the beauty of nature and discovering how vast and incredible the world truly is. Since moving to the UK, I’ve had the chance to explore places like Derry~Londonderry, Fermanagh, London, and Newcastle—each trip has been a great experience!

I understand the challenges that come with being a new international student, and I’d love to be there to guide and support you as you settle into life in Northern Ireland.

Chisom Okoye

Msc Business Development and Innovation at Belfast Campus

Campus and Course of Study

• Msc Business Development and Innovation at Belfast Campus.

Home Country

• Nigeria

Interests and hobbies

I love playing football and exploring creative ideas around business and innovation! Here at Ulster, I play for the Christian Union football team, which has been a great way to stay active and connect with fellow students. I also love to play table tennis and occasionally join in on other recreational sports when the opportunity comes up.

As for my passion for business and innovation I’m particularly drawn to how innovation can be used to solve real-world problems, especially in areas like sustainability and entrepreneurship. I enjoy exploring creative solutions to business challenges, and I’m especially interested in how to reduce food waste, particularly in Africa.

I understand the importance of having someone to rely on as a new international student, to answer questions and provide guidance. I want to be the welcoming face that greets you!

Anthony Kobina Ocran

BEng Biomedical Engineering at Belfast campus

Campus and Course of Study

• BEng Biomedical Engineering at Belfast campus.

Home Country

• Ghana

Interests and hobbies

I enjoy reading in my spare time, especially Christian literature, as it helps me deepen and enrich my faith. I also love watching football – it’s my favourite way to unwind! I’m a big fan of Bayern Munich.

I am passionate about helping others, and I’m excited to support you as a new international student. I look forward to helping you settle into campus life and making your transition smooth and as enjoyable as possible.

Muhammad Usman Shamas

MSc Computer Science at Belfast Campus

Campus and Course of Study

• MSc Computer Science at Belfast Campus

Home Country

• Pakistan

Interests and hobbies

I am passionate about exploring new cultures, traveling, and photography. I love spending time in nature – whether it’s hiking or just relaxing outdoors with friends. On campus, you’ll often find me getting involved in events, volunteering and connecting with others.

I’m also deeply interested in technology – I enjoy building projects in AI and blockchain.

As someone who has experienced the challenges of adjusting to a new environment – academically, socially, and culturally – I understand how overwhelming it can feel. I’m excited to support you, share practical advice, help you settle in and create a friendly space for you here at Ulster.

Ali Suhail

MSc International Business with Data Analytics at DLD Campus

Campus and Course of Study

• MSc International Business with Data Analytics at DLD Campus.

Home Country

• India

Interests and hobbies

I am passionate about sports and dance – two hobbies that have been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember. As an avid basketball and chess player, I’ve had the opportunity to win several trophies in district-level competitions. Growing up in a sports orientated family helped spark a love for several sports: cricket, volleyball, badminton and table tennis. As for dancing - I specialise in free style, Bollywood and folk dancing.

I’m excited to welcome you to Ulster and support you on your journey here. Whether its adjusting to campus life or finding your way in a new city – I’m here to help.

Hajia Salsabila Osman

MSc International Business at DLD Campus

Home Country

• Ghana

Interests and hobbies

I love exploring new places, meeting people from diverse backgrounds and reading and listening to music. My favourite artists are Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers – their music always brings a smile to my face. Reading is another passion of mine; it helps broaden my knowledge and understanding of various subjects, cultures, and perspectives. I also enjoy staying active through hiking and playing casual sports with friends. Physical activity keeps me energised and helps me to maintain a positive outlook.

I understand how challenging and overwhelming the transition of studying at a new campus in a different country can be. That’s why I would love to be your student buddy – to offer support, share guidance, and help you feel both at home on campus and in Northern Ireland.

Devas Shah

MSc Data Science at DLD Campus.

Campus and Course of Study

• MSc Data Science in DLD Campus

Home Country

• India

Interests and hobbies

I enjoy going to the gym, reading, cooking and playing cricket. Cricket has always been one of my favourite sports – I enjoy staying active, building strong bonds with my teammates and challenging myself to improve.

Reading is one of my favourite pastimes. I particularly love psychology books. I’m fascinated by how they can influence the way you think and challenge you to grow. My favourites would have to be “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle – it’s had a lasting impact on how I view life.

I’m someone who values personal growth, connection, and being there for others. As your Student Buddy, I’d love to support you throughout your journey at Ulster!

Nishita Sah

BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science at Coleraine Campus

Campus and Course of Study

• BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science at Coleraine Campus.

Home Country

• Nepal

Interests and hobbies

I enjoy playing badminton and I am passionate about volunteering and working with children. I have a strong interest in science and healthcare, especially in areas like immunology and the use of virtual reality in medicine. In my free time, I enjoy cooking and exploring new places. Some of my favourite dishes to cook are Momo and chicken curry! Since moving to Northern Ireland, I’ve really enjoyed visiting Portstewart and Portrush – the scenery is breathtaking, and the coastal walks are incredibly refreshing!

I would like to support you as an incoming student by providing you with a warm and welcoming environment here at Ulster. Whether it’s answering your questions, showing you around, or simply grabbing a coffee and chatting, I’m here to support you in your journey.

Foluke Alufoge

MSc International Business with Data Analytics

Campus and Course of Study

• MSc International Business with Data  Analytics

Home Country

• Nigeria

Interests and hobbies

I love listening to music across a variety of genres, as it helps me relax and stay inspired. I also enjoy watching football matches at Brandywell Stadium and taking spontaneous walks around Derry City. I love connecting with new people and having meaningful conversations, engaging in fun group activities or spending quality time with friends from school and my local church.

I’m certain it would be a delight to welcome you to Ulster and to help you adjust to life in Northern Ireland. Whether it’s showing you around campus, to helping you navigate a new city – I’m here to help.