Edinburgh - My Home Away from Home
Walkability and convenience
When I first landed in Edinburgh to start my studies, I was in awe on how beautiful the city is, and I could hardly believe that this city will be my home for the next few years. Edinburgh has many historic buildings and architecture on almost every street. I often spend time exploring the city, taking photos, and going into the various little shops. The city itself is extremely walkable, as many attractions are located in or around city centre. Even when I’m doing my weekly food shop, I can simply walk to the nearest grocery store. I also find the transit system to be extremely convenient. There are many bus routes you can take to reach your destination, so if you miss one bus, you do not have to worry—you can often take another route that will get you there in a similar amount of time. I also enjoy taking the tram to my school, Edinburgh Napier University because it is quick and reliable, arriving every 7 minutes. I think Edinburgh’s walkability and public transport make it especially easy to adjust to living here. You can get around the city without needing a car, which makes everyday life much more convenient.
Student Life and Community
There is an active student community in Edinburgh. You will have many chances to meet students from different backgrounds, whether through your accommodation or school community. If you choose to stay in a student accommodation, which is what I decided to do, there will be plenty of opportunity to connect with other students in your building. Student accommodations will often host welcome events and activities for residents to get to know each other. I have met a wonderful group of students through the accommodation’s welcome party, and we have continued to meet up and go out for food during our free time. If you choose to rent a private flat, you may also have the opportunity to become roommates with other students who are looking for accommodation. Many of my classmates who rent privately have become close friends with their roommates.
My university, Edinburgh Napier, acknowledges the diverse community of international students, and aims to create a welcoming environment for students to feel more at home. There is a lot of support available for international students, whether it is regarding visa support, searching for suitable accommodation or adjusting to life in a new country. There was a lot of paperwork involved in the student visa process and getting registered as a new student, but the university’s support team as well as Across the Pond was able to help me sort things out. The Napier Students’ Association also organizes a wide range of sport clubs, student societies and social events, giving students the opportunity to meet people and make friends who share similar interests. I have decided to join the book club hosted by the Edinburgh Napier Book Club Society, and we would come together monthly to share our thoughts about the chosen book of the month, and this is something I would look forward to every month!
Exploring New Cities
There so much to explore in Scotland outside of Edinburgh. I have already taken daytrips to Glasgow and Stirling, and I hope to visit the Highlands during my time here. Scotland is very much accessible by train. I hopped on the Scotrail from the train station and was able to reach Glasgow in less than an hour. Studying in the UK is convenient if you plan on visiting other countries and cities in Europe. It is a relatively quick flight to neighbouring countries. For example, I took a weekend trip to Dublin, Ireland and it was only less than hour flight from Edinburgh. I definitely recommend taking advantage of the opportunity to explore beyond your university and city while you’re studying abroad! I was able to create memories, discover new places and meet new people that I will carry with me long after my studies are over.
- Olivia
