Arnold Schwarzenegger gets honorary doctorate in Northern Ireland after trolling Trump’s defunct university

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As someone who keeps an eye on inspiring figures, I was thrilled to hear that Arnold Schwarzenegger was awarded an honorary doctorate from Ulster University in Belfast, Northern Ireland. It’s wonderful to see his accomplishments recognized in such a meaningful way!

This event happened six years after Arnold Schwarzenegger, the 78-year-old actor with both Austrian and American citizenship, jokingly criticized Donald Trump’s unsuccessful university. He made the comments during a virtual graduation speech for students who couldn’t attend in person due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

He dismissed his honorary degree from Trump University with a wave of his hand, saying, ‘It’s just a piece of paper – we all have them.’

On Monday, UU announced on Instagram that they had awarded Arnold Schwarzenegger an honorary doctorate. The award recognizes his impressive career and his dedication to public service, environmental work, and the arts.

Arnold Schwarzenegger first visited Belfast in 1966 to participate in his very first bodybuilding contest, when he was 19 years old.

UU added that Governor Schwarzenegger’s trip is particularly meaningful because it marks 60 years since his initial visit to Northern Ireland as a young man competing in bodybuilding.

During the ceremony, the athlete-turned-actor-turned-politician called his first trip to Belfast a ‘breakthrough,’ explaining it was the first time he’d been asked to give a public speech, according to the BBC.

I first came to Belfast sixty years ago as a young man competing in bodybuilding. I never imagined I’d return decades later to be awarded an honorary doctorate from Ulster University.

‘It’s wonderful to be back,’ the former California governor said in his speech, per the university.

Arnold Schwarzenegger’s recent degree recognizes not only his academic achievements but also his considerable influence on film and worldwide arts and culture.

UU is known for his significant contributions to the action genre, having inspired audiences for many years.

In a positive speech in 2020, the actor best known for playing the Terminator urged students to reflect on their educational experiences and embrace what’s ahead.

He urged them to remember the past four years and the hard work they put in to earn their degree.

You’ll remember the experiences you’ve had and the person you’ve become, far more than just earning this degree. Today, we’re celebrating everything you’ve accomplished along the way, not simply a diploma.

He also inspired Monday’s graduates, stressing that having a clear idea of your goals is the most important thing in life.

It’s difficult to achieve something if you haven’t defined what that ‘something’ is. I always knew what I wanted – to become a bodybuilder and an actor – and having a clear plan is essential for success.

The accomplished veteran athlete and entertainer also pointed out the value in overcoming barriers.

True rewards come from hard work. The more challenging something is, the more worthwhile it becomes. He encouraged everyone to have a clear goal, pursue it relentlessly, and refuse to be discouraged. Visualize your success and then make it happen.

Education is the key to a successful future. The more you learn, the more prepared you’ll be for any path you choose – whether it’s in school, a career, the arts, or athletics. Universities like Ulster University play a vital role in this process, helping you gain the knowledge, confidence, and skills you need to build a bright future. You won’t find a better environment to do that than at a well-respected university.

I’m deeply grateful to Ulster University, especially the Vice-Chancellor and Chancellor, for awarding me this honorary degree. It’s a true honor.

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2026-03-31 01:48