There have been many instances during my time in Edinburgh, Scotland that I felt like I had traveled back in time. It sounds silly and cliché to write, but studying Scottish history and culture while living in Edinburgh is the most rewarding part of my study abroad experience. I have always felt a call to Scotland. In high school, I was so determined to attend a college as far away as possible that I even considered applying to Scottish universities. But I live in California, and my parents weren’t keen on me studying in a different country. So I settled for the East Coast.
When looking more closely at the University of Edinburgh, I became even more excited at the prospect of living in Scotland. The University offers the opposite experience of studying at Connecticut College. It is a massive and research-oriented school located in the heart of a major European city. I couldn’t wait to cook for myself, attend large lectures, and make friends with full-time students once there. I was initially intimidated at the start of the school year, but I have become more confident in my educational and social endeavors by throwing myself into a different environment.
The best part about studying in Edinburgh is living within the landscape that I am learning about. I am taking English and Scottish courses, studying the history of Great Britain, and pursuing cultural opportunities. I am even learning about art movements. Professors regularly reference events that are artistically commemorated in the city or art that hangs in the local museums. I have taken a few trips into the Highlands of Scotland and love being able to understand the historical and political culture that surrounds the land. I appreciate that I am constantly learning more about the city I call home. So yes, as I wake up in Edinburgh, I feel like I have stepped into a different world and I hope that you will, too! •
