International student 'shines' in Northern Ireland

Employment and Learning Minister, Sir Reg Empey, has congratulated Queen’s University student, Miguel Angel Ortiz Perez, on becoming Northern Ireland’s Shine International Student of the Year 2009.

Miguel is one of 12 regional finalists from across the UK who will challenge for the prestigious title of UK International Student of the Year in the British Council annual Shine International Student Awards 2009 on 22 April. The competition highlights the unique contributions of international students to life in the UK.

Sir Reg said: “Miguel has achieved a remarkable amount during his time studying in Northern Ireland. He has played an important role in promoting multi-cultural diversity within the student and the wider Northern Ireland community. The Shine Awards are an excellent way of recognising the contribution international students make in enhancing our local communities, and Miguel’s success sends a clear message that Northern Ireland has a lot to offer international students. I wish him every success for the final.”

To enter, each student was asked to write a personal “letter home” in English, detailing the out-of-class achievements that helped make their time in the UK so rewarding. Miguel, beat off stiff competition to win the title and the £1,000 prize. In a letter to his mother, Miguel describes how his passion for computer music brought him to study for a PhD at Queen’s University, one of the leading research institutions in its field. During his time studying in Northern Ireland Miguel has contributed to the International community within Queen’s University, the wider community in Northern Ireland and the local economy.

Miguel writes: “My time here has been incredible…I came to Belfast looking for the highest education and thus far it has given me more than I ever expected both within and outside University.”

Note to Editors:

1. The International Student Awards is an annual event run by The British Council.

2. All media enquiries to Department for Employment and Learning Press Office on telephone 028 9025 7872. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.