An Unforgettable Year in Edinburgh
From Chile to Scotland: Why I Chose Edinburgh
I had always dreamed of pursuing an academic career, and studying abroad felt like the right path. The University of Edinburgh caught my attention because it was the first in the world to offer a programme in GIS (Geographical Information Science). On top of its academic reputation, I knew that living in Scotland would give me a new perspective, the chance to meet people from all over the world, and the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally.
The application process felt much less overwhelming thanks to the Across the Pond team, who guided me through every step. From preparing documents to answering my endless questions, their support made the journey smoother and more confident. I would recommend their help to anyone who is thinking about applying.
Settling into Life in Edinburgh
If you do not want the stress of searching for private housing, I strongly recommend applying through the university accommodation system. You can select three preferences, although it is common to be assigned somewhere different (as I learned from classmates). I felt lucky to end up close to the city centre, just a 20 minute walk from the central campus. Even better, I was matched with three amazing flatmates from China, Ireland and the United States. Living together with people from different cultures turned into one of the highlights of my experience.
Beyond accommodation, one of the things I appreciated most was the variety of study spaces. The main library is impressive, but the University is spread throughout the city, which means you can also study in different school buildings. This makes it easy to change your environment and enjoy different corners of Edinburgh while working.
Finding My Voice in English
Before arriving, I had never spoken English in daily life, only reading and vocabulary. A year before applying, I focused on preparing my verbal skills. It was intimidating at first, but I can honestly say you feel completely welcome here, and little by little, fluency comes naturally. If you are in a similar position, my advice is: take the leap.
A City That Feels Like a Movie Set
The first time I arrived in Edinburgh, I felt like I had stepped into another world. The cobblestones, medieval buildings and the ever present mist gave the city a unique atmosphere, as if I was in a film set in the past. I have visited London and even Copenhagen, but Edinburgh has a special charm that I have not found elsewhere.
One thing to keep in mind is the lack of sunlight in winter, especially in January and February. My best advice: bring vitamin D supplements. It really makes a difference.
Studies, Challenges and Opportunities
My GIS programme goes far beyond lectures. It includes a group project spanning three courses, designed to simulate working in a professional setting. One of the highlights was a five-day field trip to the Scottish Highlands, where we put our knowledge into practice.
Be prepared, as the programme is very intense. In many countries outside the UK, master’s degrees usually last two years, but here the programme is completed in just one, which means the workload is concentrated. It is challenging, but at the same time extremely rewarding.
Another great advantage is that the programme offers many networking opportunities throughout the year. You may collaborate with a researcher or lecturer for your dissertation, or work with an external professional or company related to your topic. These connections can open doors for future jobs and research opportunities.
Personally, I am passionate about the intersection of health and geography, and I was thrilled to discover that Edinburgh has a world-renowned research group in this field. These experiences have only reinforced my dream of continuing in academia.
Beyond the Classroom
The University makes it easy to meet people, especially during Welcome Week. In my case, joining the Tennis Club was the best decision. I made great friends while staying active. I also bonded with classmates over group projects and casual outings. Between accommodation, sports and classes, you will never feel isolated if you are open to trying new activities.
Edinburgh is also great to explore by bicycle. There are plenty of second hand options from students leaving the city, and the cycle paths take you not only around the city but also into areas of almost untouched nature. I even bought a second hand GoPro to film my rides, something I will treasure forever.
Everyday Tips and Looking Ahead
- Groceries: Lidl is your friend. It is affordable, varied and great quality.
- Supplements: Vitamin D for winter is a must.
Studying in Edinburgh has been transformative. From overcoming the language barrier to making lifelong friends and finding my academic path, I feel better prepared than ever to pursue my career. Scotland now feels like a second home, and I am excited to continue this journey here.
- Felipe