A New Perspective on Architecture
What motivated me to study in the UK?
Since graduating from university, one of my main professional goals had been to pursue a postgraduate degree abroad that would allow me to complement and expand the knowledge I had gained in the field of architecture. It was particularly important to me to explore new technologies, methodologies, and approaches to architecture and urbanism, and in doing so, broaden the way I understand and practise the profession.
The United Kingdom was one of the countries that best matched the type of education I was looking for, mainly because of the academic approach and reputation of its universities. Among the options I considered, the University of Edinburgh stood out not only because of its academic programme, but also because of the urban context of the city itself. It was important to me to study in a place where the urban environment could also become a source of learning and provide me with new perspectives that I could eventually adapt and apply in my own country.
In addition, studying in English represented a personal and professional challenge that I found particularly appealing. The opportunity to earn an academic degree in a language other than my native language meant stepping outside my comfort zone and developing new skills, both academically and professionally, within an international environment.
What was my academic, personal and cultural experience like?
My academic experience has been extremely enriching, both in terms of the knowledge I have gained and the learning opportunities offered by the University. Throughout my Master's, I had access to numerous workshops, resources and facilities that complemented my studies and allowed me to experiment with and explore different approaches to architecture and urbanism.
Another aspect I particularly value is the support the University provides to its students. Through professors, supervisors and Student Advisers, there was always a strong sense of care for both our wellbeing and academic development. The University also provides services dedicated to student wellbeing and mental health, which I believe is particularly important in a demanding field such as architecture.
The Master's has undoubtedly been both challenging and demanding. Compared with other programmes, the number and level of the required submissions involved a considerable amount of dedication and work. However, even during the most demanding periods, I always felt supported by my supervisors and professors, who not only guided our academic development but were also attentive to our wellbeing throughout the entire process.
In terms of the cultural experience, Edinburgh is an extraordinary city, full of activities and events throughout the year. Living here has, in some ways, felt like living in a museum: its architecture, streets and almost every corner of the city reflect a part of Scotland's history. Throughout my Master's, I have had the opportunity to learn much more about Scottish history and culture, which has also enriched my personal experience and influenced the way I observe and understand cities through the lens of architecture and urbanism.
What have I learned from this experience?
From an academic perspective, I feel that I am taking away a great deal of knowledge and, above all, new perspectives from which to approach architecture. One of the aspects I value most is having developed a broader and more holistic understanding of the discipline—one that does not focus exclusively on humans, but also considers the environment and the different systems that sustain it. This involves incorporating other actors into the design process, such as non-human species, climate, topography, ecosystems and the various environmental conditions that shape a territory.
I believe this new perspective is closely connected to the ways of thinking and designing that our world needs today, particularly in a context shaped by challenges such as global warming and climate change. In this sense, I believe architecture and urbanism have a responsibility to respond more consciously to these issues, while also aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which I believe should play an increasingly important role in the way architecture is taught and practiced.
Beyond academic learning, I believe that studying in a country with a different culture has been a deeply enriching experience. Living and studying in a context different from your own allows you to mature, adapt and find new ways of dealing with different challenges. At the same time, it helps you understand yourself better, step outside your comfort zone, and challenge yourself both personally and professionally.
What do I wish you had known before arriving?
I think it would have been very useful to have had more information about some of the practical aspects of living and studying in Edinburgh before arriving. For example, it would have been helpful to know how difficult it can be to find accommodation between late August and early September due to the high demand in the city at that time of year, particularly as it coincides with the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the beginning of the academic year. Knowing this in advance would have allowed me to start planning my accommodation search much earlier.
From an academic perspective, I also wish I had known from the beginning about the wide range of workshops, facilities and resources available at the University. Perhaps a more detailed induction specifically tailored to my area of study would have helped me better understand all the tools and opportunities available to me from the start and make the most of them throughout my Master's.
Another important aspect is the weather. For those of us coming from Latin America, Edinburgh's climate can be quite different from what we are used to. Having some recommendations in advance about the most appropriate clothing and equipment for the different seasons could therefore be very helpful for future international students.
Finally, it would also have been helpful to familiarize myself with the Scottish accent before arriving. Although the language is still English, it can take some time at first to become accustomed to certain accents and local expressions. Having some exposure to these beforehand could make the adaptation process easier and help students communicate more confidently during their first few weeks.
- Djanira Alexandra
BETWEEN CASTLES AND LABS: PURSUING A MASTER’S DEGREE IN EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND
Moving to Scotland marked a major milestone in my life. It was my first experience abroad and brought me many rewarding moments, both personally and professionally. I had the opportunity to pursue a master’s degree in Robotics, where I was able to turn theory into real-world projects. I chose Heriot-Watt because its programme combined robotics and artificial intelligence—an ideal blend for strengthening my skills and expanding my professional expertise.
Discovering such a beautiful place helped me settle in quickly and made the transition feel smooth and enjoyable. At the same time, staying focused on completing my degree encouraged me to see every day as an opportunity to learn, grow and make lasting memories along the way.
To share my story in a more organised way, I will explore some of the aspects that shaped my life in Edinburgh: the city’s unique charm, the accommodation options, the university’s learning facilities, and the opportunities to relax and socialise that helped me maintain a healthy balance between academic and personal life.
The Magic of Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a city I immediately fell in love with. Its blend of Gothic architecture, modern spaces and abundant greenery creates a unique atmosphere, making it a wonderful place to explore and enjoy its many attractions.
During my time there, I had the opportunity to learn some of the dances performed at a ceilidh, a traditional Scottish gathering filled with folk music and dancing. Taking part was a fun and memorable way to immerse myself in the local culture and experience Scottish traditions first-hand.
The monuments in the city centre create a striking contrast between Edinburgh’s historic architecture and its modern transport system. Together, these features make the city a pleasant place to explore and enjoy with friends or family.
Edinburgh Castle, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, stands as a powerful reminder of its rich history and preserves a character that seems untouched by time. Overall, Edinburgh is full of beautiful places that allow visitors to appreciate the history, culture and remarkable scale of its heritage.
Feeling at Home: On-Campus and Off-Campus Accommodation
There are two main types of student accommodation in Edinburgh: off-campus and on-campus accommodation.
Off-campus: Across the city, there are residential buildings designed exclusively for students and intended to provide a comfortable environment suited to academic life. The options vary and include private studios with their own bathroom and kitchen, as well as shared flats. In shared accommodation, each student usually has a private bedroom, while spaces such as the bathroom and kitchen are shared with other residents. Laundry facilities are generally located in a communal area available to everyone in the building.
On-campus: Personally, I chose to live on campus because it was the most convenient option for reducing both my commuting time and transport expenses. There are three main categories of accommodation: rooms with a shared bathroom, rooms with a private bathroom, and studios with their own bathroom and kitchen. In the first two categories, the kitchen is usually shared among five students.
Each resident has two designated storage compartments for their kitchen utensils. The kitchen is also equipped with a fridge and freezer for storing food. The laundry room is another communal space, with washing machines and tumble dryers available. This makes it very convenient to keep your clothes clean and ready to wear.
Learning Environments That Supported My Development
Some of the university’s main academic facilities include the library, shared study areas and laboratories. One of the library’s greatest advantages is that it is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Having access to a study space at any time allowed me to organise my schedule and adapt my study sessions to my own needs.
The university also provided access to a wide range of online academic resources, including books, specialised journals and research articles.
When it comes to study areas, the university offers both individual and group rooms. The group rooms are ideal for discussing ideas, preparing assignments and studying as a team. There are also spaces equipped with projectors and other resources that support collaborative work.
The laboratories provide the equipment, tools and materials I needed to develop my projects. One particularly helpful aspect during my master’s dissertation project was how easy it was to request the components I required. Whenever something was unavailable, the university could order it online, and it would usually arrive within a week.
Beyond the Classroom: Nature, Community and New Experiences
Heriot-Watt University is known not only for its high academic standards, but also for its campus, which brings its different academic schools together in one setting surrounded by nature.
The campus has extensive green spaces and two lochs. One of them is home to wild ducks and swans, adding to the university’s natural charm. There is also a wooded area filled with towering trees, perfect for taking a walk and reaching a small hill where you can enjoy beautiful sunsets. These spaces offer an excellent opportunity to relax and take a break from academic life.
When it comes to socialising, Heriot-Watt has a wide range of student societies that bring together people interested in sports, music, languages and many other activities. These groups complement academic learning and encourage cultural exchange, particularly thanks to the university’s international student community.
The university chaplaincy also plays an important role in bringing the student community together. Among its activities, it organises day trips to different parts of Scotland. These excursions offer students a chance to unwind while discovering places such as Loch Ness, Stirling Castle and Scotland’s spectacular mountain landscapes.
- Diego
Real Magic at Durham
My Acceptance Letter to Hogwarts
Studying in Durham is the closest feeling to receiving your Hogwarts letter and embarking on an unforgettable journey. Every cobbled alley, historic bridge, and riverside view carries genuine magic. I am Jennifer, an engineer from Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico. I opened my own life-changing envelope: the British Council Women in STEM scholarship to study the MSc in Energy Engineering Management at Durham University. I chose Durham for its world-class clean energy research and its deep commitment to empowering female leaders in engineering.
Trevelyan College: Daily Life in the Great Hall
What sets Durham apart from almost every other UK institution is its collegiate system. Living on campus at Trevelyan College shaped my entire experience. As a catered college, every meal in the dining hall feels straight out of the Great Hall: you sit down for breakfast, lunch, and dinner alongside international peers. It became the ultimate environment to sharpen my English, swap cultural perspectives, and build an instant support system without the daily stress of meal prep during intensive study weeks.
Matriculation at the Cathedral: Stepping into Film History
The academic year begins inside Durham Cathedral, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site. Its iconic 11th-century Norman cloisters famously stood in for Hogwarts in the early Harry Potter films and featured as Asgard in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Putting on the traditional black academic gown and walking in procession with my college to receive the official university welcome was an unforgettable moment that set an inspiring standard for the year ahead.
Engineering Rigour and Student Leadership
Academic life within the Department of Engineering and the Durham Energy Institute is both demanding and empowering. Beyond cutting-edge technical training from leading academics, student input is actively valued. I served as Course Representative on the Student Voice Committee, successfully advocating for my cohort, and worked as an International Student Ambassador, mentoring prospective students worldwide and showcasing student life at Durham.
Balls, Legends, and Dream Concerts
Social and cultural life here is endless. I experienced traditional formal dinners, the magical Winter Ball, and the legendary Summer Ball. Durham's seamless rail links allowed me to head to London for bucket-list concerts, walk the musical streets of Liverpool tracing The Beatles, explore the gothic coast of Whitby and Dracula, or perform at the Edinburgh Festival Carnival. With Newcastle Airport next door, I easily traveled across seven European countries. Classmates from across the globe quickly became lifelong friends and a true second family.
Leading in Women in STEM: A University That Backs Your Passion
The British Council Women in STEM scholarship provided far more than funding: it connected me to a global sisterhood driving real industry change. When Durham University hosted the annual conference, the institution trusted me to take the lead and help organize key parts of the official program. What I love most about Durham is that whenever you bring passion and drive, the university opens the door for you. This journey also led me to serve on the nationwide Student Shadow Board of the Women's Engineering Society and attend leadership events at the Royal Academy of Engineering in London.
No Time-Turner Needed: Step into Your Magic
We don't have a Time-Turner in the real world to slow things down, and when you live every day with such intense joy, the year flies by in the blink of an eye. If I could cast one spell on my past self, it would be to banish imposter syndrome completely: you are worthy, capable, and you belong here. Never let self-doubt keep you from raising your hand, putting on your gown, and seizing every door that opens. Your acceptance letter arrives when you work for your goals, but the real magic of Hogwarts begins the moment you decide to run through the barrier and take the leap to Durham.
- Jennifer
Living the British Dream
A Big Ben Dream Turned Reality
Hello, I am Jennifer, an MSc in Energy Engineering Management student at Durham University. Today, I am truly living the dream I worked so hard to achieve. Growing up, British culture captured my imagination, and I often pictured myself standing in front of Big Ben, dreaming of studying abroad. When my engineering journey led me to the British Council Women in STEM scholarship, I knew it was meant for me. It brought together everything I cared about: studying in the UK, championing sustainability, and joining a global network of inspiring female leaders. While my first application was unsuccessful, I refused to give up; I pushed harder and earned it on my second attempt, supported throughout by my advisor at Across the Pond.
Stepping Up to Lead and Learn
I arrived with a clear mindset: to embrace every challenge, learn constantly, and make an impact. Academically, the world-class lectures and dedicated professors motivated me to reach my full potential. I seized every open door: joining student societies, leading events, and volunteering at the Edinburgh Festival Carnival. These steps unlocked remarkable experiences, including being invited to the Royal Academy of Engineering in London, serving on the UK-wide Student Shadow Board of the Women's Engineering Society, and working as an International Student Ambassador for Durham University.
Collegiate Traditions and a Global Family
Living in Durham and belonging to its collegiate system gave me an authentic Harry Potter experience: wearing my academic gown to formal dinners and celebrating events in historic settings. I built lifelong friendships with people from every corner of the globe who broadened my worldview through their stories, food, and culture, just as I shared my Mexican roots with them. Today, I have a home and a community spread across the world.
New Horizons and the Power of Connection
Traveling to new countries, trying new roles, and putting wholehearted passion into everything helped shape a stronger, more open version of myself. This journey taught me that extraordinary people are everywhere, and that a simple conversation with someone new can lead to life-changing opportunities.
Beat Imposter Syndrome and Own Your Worth
If I could give my past self one piece of advice, it would be: you are capable, unique, and you belong here. It is crucial to tackle imposter syndrome early on. Being in the UK is proof of your hard work and talent. Celebrate your achievements, make your voice heard, and never hesitate to grab the opportunities you came here to pursue.
- Jennifer
An incredibly multicultural experience
My name is Daniela. I am a Mexican film editor, and I studied an MA in Editing for Film and Television Production at the University of York in the United Kingdom. I decided to study at the University of York because it is one of the leading universities in the UK and one of the few that offers such a specialised programme in film and television editing.
The support I received from FIDERH was fundamental in making this dream possible. I primarily used the funding to cover the annual tuition fees for my master’s degree. In addition, thanks to the scholarship I received from the university, I was able to use some of the remaining funding to support myself during my first few months while I adapted to a new country and looked for work opportunities.
This year, I learned and experienced so many unique things that have had a profound impact on me, both personally and academically, and that I will always carry in my heart.
When I first arrived in York, I did not know exactly what to expect. It was my first time in Europe and also my first experience living in a fully English-speaking environment. I arrived feeling scared, nervous and full of questions, but at the same time with an incredible desire to embrace every experience that came my way.
One of the first things that shaped my experience was where I lived. I stayed at Wentworth College, one of the university’s accommodation colleges, where I had the opportunity to meet incredible people. Throughout that year, many of them became my family. We shared everyday moments, celebrations, difficulties and experiences that made a completely unfamiliar country gradually begin to feel like home.
It was also an incredibly multicultural experience. I had the opportunity to live alongside and become friends with people from different parts of the world, learn about other cultures and discover perspectives that were very different from my own. I even met someone very special who is now part of my life. I never imagined that coming to study a master’s degree would end up meaning so much to me, not only professionally, but also personally.
During my time in the UK, I also had the opportunity to work in retail. This was a very important experience for me because it meant entering the workforce of a completely new country for the first time, while studying for a demanding master’s degree and continuing to develop professionally in my field. Working in an English-speaking environment helped me gain confidence in communicating with others, interacting with different people and handling situations that could initially feel intimidating.
Although my main goal has always been to develop my career within the film industry, this work experience taught me the importance of adaptability, responsibility and perseverance. I learned that starting a new life in another country also means being willing to do different things and gradually build your way towards what you truly want.
Academically, the experience also exceeded many of my expectations. The University of York has excellent, modern facilities and equipment, and the lecturers have specialised experience in their respective fields. The master’s programme has a strong practical focus, which allowed me to develop my skills as an editor by working directly on film projects and collaborating with students from different disciplines.
During the programme, we made two short films. The first was called VAPE. For this project, I had the opportunity to work with a great Mexican friend and fellow student, as well as classmates from China and friends from England. For me, it was a very special experience because I had never worked in such a multicultural environment before. Everyone brought a different perspective on filmmaking, storytelling and the way we approach our work. This allowed me to learn not only from a technical perspective, but also on a human level.
The second short film, Root Bound, was particularly important to me, as it was also my thesis project. Once again, I had the opportunity to work with a Mexican director and classmates from China. This experience allowed me to bring together all the knowledge and skills I had developed throughout the year and apply them to a project that represented a very important part of my growth as an editor.
Working on these projects taught me that editing is not only about mastering software or knowing the technical tools. Editing also means listening, communicating, understanding different perspectives and working as part of a team to find the best way to tell a story. Doing this in an international environment helped broaden my perspective and allowed me to understand filmmaking through different cultural viewpoints.
Throughout the year, I also had the opportunity to get closer to the film industry in the UK, meet professionals and begin building a network of contacts that I hope to continue developing. These experiences made me realise that I want to continue building my career here and become part of the British film and television industry.
Beyond my academic education, studying in York allowed me to grow enormously as a person. I learned how to navigate life away from my home country, face new situations, step outside my comfort zone and trust myself much more. I arrived afraid that I would not be able to adapt to a new language, culture and way of life, and I ended up discovering that I could build a home far away from home.
For me, the support from FIDERH meant much more than simply having the opportunity to pay for a master’s degree. It gave me the opportunity to live an experience that changed the way I see my profession, my future and myself. Thanks to this support, I was able to study a specialisation that would have been very difficult to pursue in the same way in Mexico, develop my skills as an editor, meet people from all over the world and begin building the future I want.
Today, I am beginning a new chapter of my life in the United Kingdom. My intention is to continue developing professionally within the film industry, keep growing as an editor and make the most of the opportunities this country has to offer. At the same time, I am building a life here that goes far beyond my career: a life surrounded by people who have become important to me and experiences that I could never have imagined when I first left Mexico.
I am deeply grateful to FIDERH and Across the Pond for believing in me and helping me take this step. This opportunity did not simply allow me to earn a master’s degree; it allowed me to discover a new home, new people, new opportunities and a version of myself that I did not know I could become.
If I could go back to the day I was about to board the plane to the UK and speak to the Daniela who was scared and did not know what to expect, I would tell her not to be afraid. I would tell her to take the leap. Everything she was about to experience would be worth it.
- Daniela
