If someone had told me a few years ago that I’d be doing my Master’s in Cancer Medicine at Queen’s University Belfast - in this cold, cosy city full of history, charm, and postcard-perfect corners - I’d have probably laughed and said, “That sounds too dreamy to be true.” But now I am here, actually living that dream.

Morning routine

I usually wake up around 8:30am, with the soft morning light sneaking through my window. The view from my bed is honestly beautiful - right outside stands a Methodist church that also houses a college and school. It’s peaceful, and somehow it always puts me in a good mood. After my morning skincare routine (a non-negotiable part of my day), I grab a quick breakfast - cereal, egg and toast, and a splash of orange juice if I’m feeling fancy. My lunchbox is already packed from the night before, and I toss it into my bag along with my laptop, lab notebook, journal, and importantly, my trusty umbrella - because, well, Belfast.

The scenic route to my lab

By 9am, I’m outside the accommodation at College Gardens - just beside the Students' Union and super close to campus, therefore my commute is barely 10 minutes. Every morning I put on my earphones before I step out. If the sky is very gloomy and grey I usually play something upbeat to get myself wake up, but on more warm and sunny days I go for some soulful music. A short walk past the Students' Union and through the bustling street has oddly become my favourite part of the day - a little rest before everything starts.

Lab work

By 10am I’m in the lab, where the real hustle begins. My course is intense but exciting - filled with experiments, data analysis, and those “please let this result work” moments. Though it can get hectic somedays, there is comfort in knowing that all this effort is worth it because it is helping me to understand cancer better, layer by layer.

Inside the lab

Lunchtime

Around 12:30pm I usually take a lunch break where I grab my lunch or catch up with my friends in the study lounge, or head out for a quick bite in nearby cafes such as Tim Hortons. After lunch, I head back into my lab work and try to finish up with any assignments or presentations before 5pm. When I finally pack up it's usually cold outside, so I get bundled up in my puffer jacket and layers, because Belfast weather loves throwing tantrums just like a little kid - sunny one second, raining the next. My umbrella honestly deserves its own degree at this point.

Evening plans

Evenings are when I get time to relax. Either I make myself a snack, watch something light, or listen to music before heading to the McClay Library. It’s my favourite study spot - calm, quiet, and beautifully designed. I often book a private study room where I can focus, make mind maps for assignments, or rehearse presentations out loud (yes, sometimes dramatically).

In my spare time...

One of the best parts of my student life has been being a Global Student Ambassador. The training sessions were amazing - they helped me overcome my fear of impromptu speaking and boosted my confidence so much. I’m really looking forward to being part of more events and meeting other students through it.

A picturesque walk

When I’m not studying or working as a global student ambassador, I enjoy hanging out with my friends, singing, or dancing just for fun. We often meet up at someone’s flat on weekends, cook dinner together, play music, and just vibe - the perfect break from the lab grind.

Sometimes I go to wander around the city centre or take a stroll in Botanic Gardens - Belfast is small and walkable and full of character, and every street seems to have its own little charm. By the time I get back to my room, it’s usually late. I change into my comfiest clothes, and just ease off. Some nights I journal, other nights I just scroll through playlists and let my thoughts wander.

Being a Cancer Medicine student isn’t easy - there are long hours, failed experiments, and plenty of caffeine-fueled nights - but it’s so worth it. Every time I look out at that church from my window, I’m reminded how far I’ve come and how lucky I am to be living this chapter of my life in Belfast - a city that somehow feels like both an adventure and home.

Find out more

Blogs by students from India

How to Enjoy Your Spare Time at Queen's and in Belfast

International Students at Queen’s: Experiences in Belfast and Beyond

Tista Sarkar Cancer Medicine | Postgraduate Student | India Hi, I am Tista - part science nerd, your friendly global ambassador and full-time explorer of all things. When I am not decoding molecular mysteries in cancer cells, you will find me chasing sunsets, sipping too much coffee, and turning impromptu adventures into unforgettable memories.