Reputation for high-quality education
Coming from Mexico, I wanted my postgraduate experience to be more than just academic. It had to challenge me culturally, creatively, and personally. The UK offered all of that. It has a strong reputation for high-quality education, access to diverse perspectives from around the world, and a thriving arts scene. I chose the University of Edinburgh because of its strong reputation in film and cultural studies, and the way my program combines theory with practical curatorial work. University life here is vibrant, there are thousands of societies to join. I joined the Photography and Jazz society where I was able to meet new skills and friends from all over the world.
I lived in university accommodation, sharing a kitchen with seven other students from different countries. At first, adjusting to a shared space required communication between flatmates, especially when you’re used to your own spice cabinet back home. Now, I see it as part of my whole experience studying in the UK. We swap recipes, share late-night tea, and sometimes discover how differently people define "clean." If you’ve ever been to Mexico, you know the sunshine allows for long days in the park in short sleeves. Edinburgh’s weather, on the other hand, teaches you that in other parts of the world the seasons are noticeable and learning how to layer clothes is essential! Rain and wind are common, but the reward is watching the city’s stone streets and green hills change with the light, it’s magical in its way.
By studying Film Exhibition and Curation, I was able to explore how films are shared with audiences, from major festivals to community screenings. I valued that the University professors pushed me to think critically, experiment with creative projects, and connect cinema with larger cultural conversations. It was the perfect place to merge my passion for film with my interest in how stories are presented and experienced. Walking through Edinburgh sometimes feels like stepping into a perfectly framed shot. Between the medieval Old Town, the elegant Georgian New Town, and the dramatic backdrop of Arthur’s Seat, there’s plenty of inspiration. The city also has a lively arts calendar, from the famous Fringe Festival to small, intimate film screenings.
One of the best parts of studying here is meeting people from all over the world. My friends come from places I’d only read about before, and our conversations range from comparing national cuisines to discussing cinema across cultures. In my free time, I explored hidden cafés, visited free museums, or took day trips to the Highlands. While I’ve studied in English before, doing a full master’s degree in it, especially in an academic setting, can be intense. Sometimes my thoughts start in Spanish, switch to English, and land somewhere in Spanglish. The good news is that you improve every week, and the professors here are supportive.
If there's one thing I wish I’d known before packing my bags, it’s how fast time flies here. A year feels long before you arrive, but between classes, social life, and exploring Scotland, it goes by quickly. My advice is to arrive with an open mind, a good raincoat, and a willingness to try things outside your comfort zone. You might just find a new version of yourself.
- Jorge