Three months at The University of Edinburgh
I wouldn't say it was a spur of the moment decision, but it was a, "let's just do this" feeling, when I chose to study abroad for a semester at The University of Edinburgh. Before applying for exchange, I was at a pretty critical point in my university career, I had been challenged with a health ailment the semester before applying and was just getting back on my feet. Exchange for me was a way of showing myself that no matter the circumstances, always to keep taking steps in a positive direction.
Scotland was a dream. Now, social media and people's ways of depicting their study abroad experiences are pretty flowery, but if you want my candid opinion, it is incredible, but it can be tough. Deciding to go to another country without knowing anyone is not as easy as it appears, even though you have incredible experiences travelling to new countries, you're still living your normal life, just in a different country... All the same mundane problems still exist, you need to learn how to adapt these problems to the new environment. There will be people you don't like, you will catch the flu, and sometimes classes might be a bit dry, but it's still life, and you learn how to move forward.
My study abroad experience was cut short because of the global pandemic COVID-19, but that does not mean I don't appreciate the amazing time I did have. Travel home during the global pandemic is an interesting story...I was on a costly flight direct from London Heathrow to Vancouver that a family friend was able to book because she had flight points and access to better flights. My turnaround deciding to leave was just a few days, and I didn't see some of my friends to say goodbye one last time. Now, my travel home may have been one of the best stories of my study abroad. Hmmmm.. best is maybe not the proper word, best/worst seems more accurate. Here it goes, I decided to take a sleeper train overnight from Edinburgh to London. However, at 5 am I was woken up to the staff letting me know the train had broken, and I needed to get on another train, which I did. Yet, that train also broke! So here I was alone, with all my luggage in Preston, England, 4 hours away by car to the airport. My first step was to ask the staff more information about the train lines and if they would be organizing alternative forms of transportation. But, 30 minutes in, there was still no information. Next step, I began calling multiple cab companies to receive quotes on how expensive a 4-hour cab to London would be. The lowest price was 300 GDP...well, all I knew was I wasn't missing that flight! So, at 6 am in a small town in England at the train station, I began yelling, "is anyone else going to the London Heathrow airport?" I was fortunate that morning (or perhaps unlucky depending on how you look at it) because two other study abroad students, also from Canada, was headed that way, and we were able to split the cab three ways! After my two-day travel horror, I cannot express the feeling of happiness I had when my feet landed on Canadian soil again!
Now, as I sit here in my bedroom, one month back in Canada, three weeks into working full time at my internship, I cannot help but feel nostalgic and so so thankful for the time I had in Scotland. There's a lot of jokes about people coming back from exchange transformed, and the truth is, I believe it may just be impossible not to change. You're challenging your beliefs by immersing yourself in new cultural experiences and feeling very alone in a foreign place. As frightening as it is in the beginning, I have never found myself having so many unique adventures in my life as I did in Scotland.
A common question I get asked, is why did I choose Scotland for my study abroad?
Honestly, when I was choosing somewhere to go, Scotland popped into my mind pretty quickly. I had certain criteria I was looking for.
1. Friendly people
2. Nature and opportunities to hike
3. Walkable city
4. Good arts and culture scene
As someone who has only lived in Canada for their entire life, I wanted to go to a city that was friendly and where I could easily meet new people. Nature was a very big factor. I originally grew up in the countryside, because of this I have a strong appreciation for nature. Some of my favourite things include hiking and outdoor activities, so I was really looking for a location that offered both the city feeling and gorgeous landscapes.
As well, I was looking for a walkable city where I would be in the hub of all the action. In Vancouver last semester I was able to live on West Broadway, this was my favourite location I've been since coming to UBC. I could walk down the street and have access to bars, restaurants and entertainment! Art is a big passion of mine, and I am particularly inspired by European art and history, as it relates to my family heritage. Edinburgh does not fall short in this regard, and I was only steps away from the Scottish National Museum, a free museum hosting educational materials such as Dolly the sheep, and my favourite was the fashion exhibit. I did find myself here often, especially since it was a free activity to do.
Edinburgh was an easy choice for me, no I didn't make my decision off the show Outlander (I dislike that show if you'd like to know), but rather what a girl I met two years ago in Switzerland told me. I remember I was travelling with my family through Europe the summer after first year. My sister and I had stepped out to a small bar in Grindelwald Switzerland. There, I met this girl who was originally from Canada but studying abroad at the University of Edinburgh. She told me how she had the absolute best time, and even got a tattoo of the skyline! Now, that conversation never really left my mind, so two years later I was filling out Edinburgh as my top destination.
Am I ever glad I did! There are endless things to do, the architecture is stunning, the people are some of the kindest I've ever met in the world - the only downfall, the food is meh...or perhaps I couldn't afford to buy the good food given the steep price points.
During my time in Edinburgh, I've gone on tons of adventures. Here are a few things I recommend you should do if you visit the city.
1. Royal Mile shops + walk up to the castle - The Royal Mile was very close to where I was living in Edinburgh (Cowgate). It hosts a great selection of Scottish shops where you can pick up delicious authentic gin and whiskey, scarves and cashmere. The castle is at the end of the Royal Mile, and it's a must-see sight. However, the cost to enter the castle is steep, so don't feel like you need to pay the 19 GDP to enter!
2. Calton Hill - this is a very easy walk that is central to downtown, just up the road from Princess Street and before Leith. I recommend Calton Hill if you're looking for a good view of the city!
3. Scottish National Museum - Lucky for me, I only lived a two-minute walk away from the museum. It's just on the outskirts of George Square campus. I visited here pretty often, as there are many floors to explore and entry is free!
4. Arthurs Seat - I think this might be my favourite place in Edinburgh! The hike is pretty easy and won't take you that long, but mind you there are two ways to go up. If you have a bit of trouble with mobility make sure to take the trail marked Arthurs seat, as originally I went up the backside of the mountain and it was similar to the Grouse Grind. Arthurs Seat allows you to see the mountains, ocean and the city. I can't get over how beautiful this view was.
5. Stockbridge - I love, love, love this neighbourhood. I suppose people consider this the nice part of town, as it has all the trendy coffee shops and cool restaurants. However, my favourite thing about Stockbridge was the number of thrift stores! Every two feet was a new shop - no, I'm not being dramatic. It is a bit of a pricer neighbourhood so be mindful of that!
6. Circus Lane + Dene Village (St Bernards Well) - These areas are both very close to Stockbridge and a must-see in Edinburgh. Circus Lane is a street that has very cute houses on both sides, a great picture spot. While Dene Village and St Bernards Well is a walking trail area that also has great views.
7. Portobello Beach - I was surprised by how similar this beach was to those in BC. We went on a rainy and cold day but it was still so worth it!
Other: gin distillery, Scotch Whiskey Experience, ghost tour, Monkey Barrel Comedy
Cold Town House (has a really cool rooftop bar) & Three sisters have the best weekend entertainment, I am a bit biased as it was only a three-minute walk from my flat, but I promise you it is one of the most popular places in Edinburgh to go to.
I can't say I know it all, but I have learned a few things from my time studying abroad.
#1. See your city first
When I first arrived in Edinburgh I didn't remain in the city for long. I was travelling for the first three weekends after arrival. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely adored my adventures and had so much fun! But soon, you realize that you really haven't gotten to know your city or the people in it. When you first arrive it's important to settle in, spend a few weekends touring the city and getting to know people. There will be plenty of time to travel, and whats a better way than with all your new friends!
#2. Figure out how to source items ethically
You will be tempted to buy all your houseware goods from stores like Poundland and Primark which are accessible and cheap. Spend some time researching the local charity shops for the opportunity to find affordable items while still supporting sustainable practices! As well, if you find yourself in Edinburgh one day, the Zero Waste hub funded by the Scottish government for the attainment of the UN Sustainability Goals is a really great place to grab some goodies and second-hand items.
#3. Make a budget
Okay, the simple fact is the UK is one of the most expensive places in the world, you're going to spend some hard cash while on exchange. Make sure to properly budget leading up to your travel and factor in extra expenses for weekend travel. There are also different student trips you can take part in that usually cost between $50-$200. During my time in Edinburgh, I volunteered with the international club so I could go on the trips for free. As well, search flight deals, easyjet and the budget airlines aren't as bad as they seem, especially if it's a short 1-hour flight. I had a 9 GDP flight from Dublin to Scotland....not bad if I do say so myself.
There is still a lot of Scotland and Edinburgh I want to tour in the future. It is terribly sad not knowing when the next time I will be back in this beautiful city. However, I know it is only a matter of time. Writing this blog was a lot harder than I thought it would be. I hold a lot of emotional experiences that have developed my character and allowed me to become more secure about who I am and where my career is directed.
During my time abroad, I really was able to live independently and form my own experiences. I travelled to Berlin, Budapest, Paris, London, Galway, Cork and Dublin! There are so many destinations internationally that I cannot wait to venture to one day, Scotland really drove the travel bug into me, and I know my decisions moving forward will factor in the way they can lead me towards broader international exposure.
I do want to return to Europe to pursue further education, primarily the hope is to begin practicing another language as well as increasing my knowledge on international business relations and in particular how different countries understand innovation. Throughout my time at UBC I have been very lucky to discover a passion for entrepreneurship, I hope to deepen the breath of this interest my learning about how entrepreneurship is approached internationally. Our current environment poses a huge opportunity for entrepreneurship, as the social, economic and political landscape of Canada and the world will no longer look the same following the pandemic. I have been so impressed by the different ventures internationally who have been dedicating themselves towards improving the world climate, and it is truly extraordinary to see people who can keep moving forward in such a devastating time.
I hope my story was entertaining or helped you even 1%. If you're interested in any information regarding academic structure, studying abroad etc, feel free to reach out, I would be glad to chat.
Product @ Replit
4 年This was such a good read :) I’m glad you made it home safe! (Despite all the literal train wrecks)
Investment Project Manager, Spring Activator
4 年So proud and excited to see where things are gonna go for you in the future, Reece!