NI Connections

Meet Daphne Doucet, a proud Montreal native who traded poutine and snowstorms to embark on an exciting adventure. Now an MBA student at Ulster University, Daphne also works part-time at Re-Vana Therapeutics, a local Biotech company. Her leap across the Atlantic has been anything but boring, filled with cultural discoveries, golf escapades, and plenty of "happy days" and "craic".

Why Northern Ireland?

Daphne’s love affair with Belfast began during a 2018 family trip to Ireland. She fell for Belfast's charm—small enough to feel cozy, big enough to feel like a city. It was also easier to navigate than Montreal during rush hour, so it ticked all the boxes. When deciding to return to school, Daphne thought, “Why not make the leap and study abroad?” Spoiler alert: It’s been worth it.

Before arriving, Daphne had some reservations about Belfast’s storied past, unsure how it might influence the city's people. To her delight, she found the locals to be overwhelmingly friendly, welcoming, and always ready for a chat. “Wherever I go, people are smiling and chatty. It has been amazing,” she shares.

A passionate golfer, Daphne was drawn to Northern Ireland’s reputation for stunning golf courses. Since arriving, she’s become a member at Belvoir Park Golf Club and has enjoyed playing at renowned courses like Ardglass. She looks forward to exploring even more greens and participating in local opens this summer.

At Ulster University, Daphne has benefited from the multicultural environment of her MBA program. Learning from classmates with diverse backgrounds has enriched not only her business knowledge but also her understanding of global customs and perspectives. Although most of her friends are fellow Canadians studying in Belfast, she cherishes the inclusive and diverse student community.

Daphne has found her own Belfast treasures. Whether it’s Belvoir Park Golf Club, Studio 52 Pilates, Orto pizza, or the comforting embrace of an Irish Chinese takeout, Daphne’s discovered her own slice of Belfast bliss. Add in walks in Ormeau Park and the many pubs bursting with live music, and you’ve got a recipe for contentment.

Daphne’s role at Re-Vana Therapeutics has been pivotal in her early career journey. The start-up environment has inspired her to build a future in Biotech startups, where she hopes to contribute to young companies' success from a business and administrative standpoint.

Surprisingly, Daphne has found more similarities than differences between Canadian and Northern Irish cultures, a testament to their shared heritage. She’s also picked up local slang like “it was good craic” and “happy days,” blending seamlessly into the rhythm of life in Belfast. 

"I think what’s been most surprising is actually the lack of cultural difference. A lot of Canadians have Irish heritage, and I think it shows in our culture. Of course there are some differences, but for the most part, being here feels like being at home, but of course with different accents!"

With plans to work full-time in Belfast after her MBA, Daphne envisions a promising future in Northern Ireland. Her advice to fellow Canadians considering studying here? “Don’t listen to people who warn you about the weather—it’s really not that bad compared to what we’re used to!”

From Christmas lights to the warmth of its people, Northern Ireland has become more than a study destination for Daphne—it’s become her home away from home.