This is a dream experience
My name is Sara, I finished my master's degree in Human Anatomy at the University of Edinburgh. Since the first time I visited Scotland, I fell in love and have been looking for a way to study in this beautiful place ever since. Fortunately, I found Across the Pond and they guided me throughout my process to fulfill my dream. I finished my medical degree in Mexico and as soon as possible, I applied to do my master's degree in Edinburgh. I knew that this University was one of the pioneers in medicine and that if I wanted to continue my path to be a surgeon this was the right place.
Accommodation
At first, it was difficult to find a place to live, so I recommend you come 1 month before your master's degree begins so that you don't neglect your studies to find housing. It's a bit heavy, but 100% worth it.
The University of Edinburgh: A dream
At the University of Edinburgh, in the building where I studied, it is the dream of any medical student. She could literally study in the anatomy museum, surrounded by specimens dating back to the 13th century. The staff is prepared to give classes, something that does not happen in my country; normally in Mexico, it is doctors who give us classes, however, in Scotland they are first anatomists and they also have a bachelor's degree in some other health science (in my opinion a plus). My master's degree taught me both theoretical and practical knowledge and I achieved something I thought I would never do, writing a thesis.
Is my English knowledge enough?
I have to say that when I started my master's degree, my English was a C1 and now I have a high C2, I already understand a lot of UK accents (and yes, there are a lot). If what stops you from studying in the UK is English, don't worry little by little you will improve it and the staff is very patient with that issue because there are many students who come from abroad.
People are really nice
Something that made a big difference this year was the group of friends I made. We are 4 in total and come from different parts of the world such as the United States, England, and Iran, we toured Scotland and you can learn from the different cultures of all. In Mexico, I did not consider myself sociable, but in Edinburgh, it is so easy to talk to people and make friends that I can say that I became extroverted. You can literally make friends on the train, at the bus stop, in the supermarket, wherever...
A little glimpse into life in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is an excellent option if you want to get to know the current Scottish life surrounded by medieval, Victorian, and modern buildings (few), with the ease of public transport to go everywhere (bus, tram, taxis, airport). For me, it is the perfect city, it has the sea, first-class schools and hospitals, museums, festivals, markets, hotels, hostels, cinemas, shops, pubs, restaurants, clubs, a zoo and little else outside, the beautiful Scottish countries. If you like history and old buildings, but also enjoy the conveniences of modern life, Edinburgh is for you. In addition, you can experience the 4 seasons of the year, I was able to see the beautiful orange scenery in autumn, I was able to witness my first snowfall, cherry blossom trees in spring, and swimming in the sea in summer.
This is your moment
I highly recommend the Human Anatomy master's degree at the University of Edinburgh if you need to learn or reinforce your knowledge of anatomy. The staff is very capable and the learning tools they offer are invaluable. This is a dream experience worth investing your effort and other resources into. You are very close, do not give up.
- Sara