Hi! My name is Claudio, from Chile, and I want to tell you about the wonders of living and studying in Scotland, in the UK, and how you can ease much of the stress and uncertainty of applying with the help of Across the Pond.
 

Decisions and applications

The idea of studying abroad had been on my mind for a few years, and I couldn’t quite decide to go for it, until I heard of two possibilities that got me moving: first, that the UK had a unique type of postgraduate studies in psychology for people who did not have an undergraduate degree on the field (which was my case, with a Bachelors in Sociology); and second, I heard about Edinburgh, a city that combined the buzz of international students (with several universities in town), the ease of a smaller scale city (at least compared to Santiago, where I’m from) and the unique possibility of living on the skirts of the world-famous Scottish Highlands.

Once the decision was made, I still struggled to narrow the specific degree I would like to pursue and was overwhelmed with the different stages involved in the application process. Through a friend I heard of the support that was available through Across the Pond, not quite believing it would be free of charge. I emailed, received a quick response and from then things went smoothly throughout the process: my advisor (to whom I’m incredibly grateful) supported me in everything from narrowing my options and deciding on a degree, understanding and completing all the documentation that was required, even to the process of applying to my visa and getting through immigration into the UK (which can be the scariest part!). I honestly don’t know how I would’ve handled the process if it wasn’t for the support of Across the Pond and my advisor.
 

Edinburgh city and university

The experience of living in Edinburgh and Scotland is one of a kind. Just walking through the city is a magical experience that never ceased to amaze me. The historical buildings of Old Town, the bustling Royal Mile, the winding, cobbled streets of Stockbridge, and always the stunning and towering Castle looking over town. The city is small enough you can make your way around walking or biking, but also has plenty of lovely neighbourhoods to explore, like Leith shore with its pubs and restaurants, Bruntsfield’s cafes and charity shops, or the high street of Princes Street in New Town. 

The student life is remarkable as well. Edinburgh has four universities, with the University of Edinburgh being the biggest and best known of them. There are always activities going on and plenty of international students, which guarantees you will have the full cosmopolitan experience during your stay. The University of Edinburgh, where I studied, has an impressive student life as well, with more student societies (anything from whiskey to Harry Potter) and sport clubs (from parkour to martial arts) that you could go through during your studies. 

I was also incredibly lucky with my programme of study. The course is called MSc Psychology of Mental Health and, as I mentioned, is a graduate course for students with no background on psychology. Because of this, the cohort included not only students from every part of the world (which allows me now to have close friends from India, Germany, and Greece, among other countries), but also from different professional backgrounds. This made for an enriching student experience. The faculty was incredible capable and managed to squeeze an intense and rigorous foundation on psychology in just a year.

Nature at your doorstep

The biggest surprise and delight of my experience was how close I lived to nature, and how beautiful and accessible the landscapes were. In Edinburgh itself you are always walking distance from nature. The trails by the river Water of Leith run throughout town and provide refuge from the noise, and Arthur’s Seat hill stands the tallest point in Edinburgh, with views that stretch from the North Sea to the three massive bridges that cross the Firth of Forth. The Royal Botanical Gardens, free of charge, are located just by Inverleith Park, providing both a panoramic view of Old Town’s skyline and plenty of forest trails you can admire throughout the seasons. If you are willing to take a bus or train, the possibilities are endless, the best known being the Pentland Hills Regional Park. The park is located just outside town and provides endless trails and many peaks for weekend adventures (particularly exciting in snowy days!). 

And I can’t leave out perhaps the greatest perk of life in Edinburgh: how close you are the Scottish Highlands and Islands. Being from Chile, I’m quite used to long drives into nature, but Scotland has incredibly manageable distances you can cover either by train or with a car. I spent countless days and nights hiking, camping, and simply enjoying the beautiful sights. I can’t overstate what a privilege it is to have these stunning landscapes at your doorstep.
 

Possibilities after studying 

Finally, I wanted to share some of the recent new possibilities to continue your stay after studying. I was lucky of arriving on the UK the year that a new visa was introduced: the Graduate Visa. The visa allows you to stay for two years in the UK (three if you finished a PhD) and work without requiring a work visa. It’s a straightforward process to apply for the visa and it allowed me to continue living in the country I was enjoying thoroughly. After studying I had the possibility to work first as a barista in Edinburgh, which was an enjoyable change of pace after so many months spent in research and my computer. And then I was able to move to Glasgow and work in a charity supporting homeless people transition to their permanent housing. The experience of working in a Scottish Charity was a great complement to having studied in the country, helping me deepen practice of English and gaining new professional skills I now bring back to my country of origin. It was also a wonderful experience to get to live in a new city in the country. Glasgow is the biggest city in Scotland (and one of the largest of the UK) and a massive hub of music, arts, and outdoor enthusiasts. It is a city I highly recommend for a day trip, music gigs, forest walks, and of course to live there as well.

The experience of studying and working in Scotland, all while being able to explore its natural landscapes and getting to meet its people, has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. I’m incredibly grateful for the possibility I had to live through these experiences. And of the many people I owe gratitude, Across the Pond has a significant role: those first stages after making the decision to study abroad can be the most daunting, with what feels like endless options and a ton of paperwork. The patient guidance from Across the Pond advisors was essential to ease my fears and push through to make this dream a reality.

- Claudio
 

I was looking to do a Masters in Social Media and Social Research because I wanted to learn more about user behaviour on social networks. The University of York is ranked first in Sociology for research impact and fourth in the UK (according to Times Higher Education), and is a member of the prestigious Russell Group. It was therefore always my first choice.

During my time as a student at the University of York, I felt very integrated and welcomed. I was very supported by all the academic staff, the welfare team and the staff at my college (Wentworth). I also had the opportunity to be a course representative for my master's degree and I did a communications internship for my college. The University of York opened up a world of possibilities and new opportunities at the same time!
 

Student Life: York as a university city

The city of York is a university city par excellence. Studying in its two campuses was a wonderful experience because they are places where you connect with nature and the tranquillity necessary to study. 

In addition, the university is very well connected to the city centre in no more than 15 minutes by bus. If you like cycling like I do, it will definitely be a great experience, as you can easily cycle around York safely in its streets and parks. 

York's nightlife is vibrant and lively - did you know that York has 365 pubs? You can definitely enjoy one every day of the year. 
 

How did I get to York? Thanks to Across the Pond 

There is no doubt that my dream of studying in England would not have been possible if it hadn't been for the advice I got from Across the Pond. I worked with them for 4 years where they helped me to find a Master's degree that matched my interests, as well as to apply to the University of York and to receive funding from Becas Chile. 

My advisor and I know how long this journey was because I didn't speak any English, but I finally managed to get the scholarship to study abroad and the level of English that the university required me to study. I will be infinitely grateful to Across the Pond forever. 

- Ana Karina
 

My name is Trista, I am from Ontario, Canada and I have just completed my first year of English Law at the University of Dundee. My journey began in high School when I was interested in the idea of studying abroad so I reached out to Across the Pond. I received helpful information and support which gave me the confidence to fully commit to studying in the UK. One of my biggest fears about studying abroad was the expense and how I would fund my tuition and stay. As I started to receive my acceptance letters from the schools, I applied to I was extremely grateful to discover the University of Dundee’s helpful scholarship available for Canadian students. Dundee became my top choice for places to study because in addition to the scholarship offered, I learned the University was ranked among the top 20 UK law programs. Across the Pond helped me through the entire visa application process and even assisted me in navigating my arrival in Scotland. 
 

Student life at the University of Dundee

After my first year, I am pleased to say that I am more than happy with my program, the University, and the city. I have met amazing friends from Northern Ireland, Glasgow, Cyprus and made memories I will never forget. Through the University I was even able to travel to Edinburgh and experience the Christmas market. I am constantly writing home to my family about all the wonderful things I am lucky to do while in the UK. I checked seeing the northern lights off my bucket list and went on many bus and train journeys all over the UK, public transport can take you anywhere which is very different from Canada. 
 

Help I received along my journey

 The main reason I was able to settle in so smoothly in the UK when starting my program was all the helpful people eager to see me succeed in this process. As previously mentioned, my application was so easy to complete thanks to my advisor from Across the Pond who was quick to respond to any question I had and reminded me of any steps that needed to be completed. The University of Dundee also provided an extremely welcoming and helpful international advisor who helped me meet other students from Canada who went on to support me through my first year. Finally, my professors and academic advisor ensured I understood the unfamiliar grading system and made me aware of every opportunity the University had available to transition my career and degree into Canada. 

Thanks to the support and resources provided by Across the Pond and the University of Dundee my journey from Ontario to Dundee has been smooth and transformative. Studying abroad has deepened my appreciation for diverse cultures and new opportunities allowing me to enhance my personal growth. I am excited to continue my studies and apply what I have learned. 

- Trista
 

Hi! My name is Joelsa, I’m studying here at Leeds Beckett University in the LLB program from Ontario, Canada  and I thought I'd share a little about my experience; everything from making the decision to study in the UK, to moving to a whole new country by myself and everything thereafter. 
 

Should I Stay or Should I Go

From the beginning of high school I had planned to study law so after I finished my undergrad at the University of Ottawa, I set my sights on studying for the Law School Admission Test. The LSAT was being offered online, no large gatherings and all, and I absolutely did not want to take a test that was going to determine if I needed to choose a different career path. It just seemed so daunting and not something I wanted to do. I turned to a family friend who was a lawyer to ask for some guidance on how to navigate the whole thing and that’s when she told me she had gotten her degree in the UK, no LSAT required. I was immediately intrigued and began researching about how one even goes about studying in another country. After hearing back from all the schools I had applied to, I finally got an acceptance to my number one choice, Leeds Beckett, and thus began my journey to Leeds and LBU. 
 

The Journey

Once I finished running through the house screaming that I got in, it was time to lock in and start preparing for the move. I needed to find accommodation, apply for a student visa, get my student loans in order, the tasks were endless. I did things in order from least to most stressful, just to spice things up a little.  I settled my accommodation agreement at Marsden House; Canadian student loans secured, now it was time to apply for my Visa. Full disclosure, the visa process nearly made me quit entirely, so many papers to sign and pictures to take I think I breathed two full breaths during the entire process. With the help of my advisor and my parents, we finally got approved and it was time to make the big move. 
 

The Destination

Touching down in the UK was the best and scariest moment of my life. It was hard saying goodbye to all my friends and family, their support and confidence in me encouraged me and made me so much stronger during this time in my life. I am also so grateful that my mom made the initial trip over with me as well to help me get settled. She was able to explore Leeds with me, meet my roommates who are now lifelong friends, and see me off. The excitement I had to start the semester and begin my law school journey was palpable. Leeds is a city so full of life and energy, the transition from good ole Hamilton didn’t seem so bad. I quickly discovered that Leeds is a great place for doing things out on the town with friends. If you want to get jiggy with it or get a couple pints with the boys Leeds has a plethora of pubs and clubs to visit with your group of friends after a long week of classes (Spoons and Slug & Lettuce are my personal faves). Hungry? Visit The Light and their many restaurants and then maybe even catch a movie or discover how fast your friends can escape a locked room at Escape Hunt. There’s so many things to discover in Leeds, every day a new adventure, so I make the most of it when I can. 
 

Hitting the Books

Welcome Week was a great opportunity to meet my peers and lecturers, basically get a feel of what the year will look like. The amount of guidance, encouragement and overall support from the faculty and the university was overwhelming in the best way. They want nothing from you but your absolute well being and I really appreciate that, being someone who struggles with anxiety, this helped quell any fears I had about the program and any difficulties I might face. Among the subjects I learned in first year Criminal and (unpopular opinion) Public law were my favourites. Sure, constitutional law doesn’t sound too interesting at first but once you get into the nitty gritty and you’re taught by amazing lecturers like Agatha Fijalkowlski, you’ll be a constitution connoisseur by the end of your first year. Aside from actual law you learn essential skills like creating a CV and how to prepare for an interview, all things that will certainly be useful for you after completing your degree, Leeds Beckett doesn’t miss a thing when it comes to preparation. 
 

Started From the Bottom Now We Here

As I head into level 5, I’m starting to think about what kind of law I want to go into, if I want to be a barrister or solicitor (there is no distinction in Canada however, all lawyers do both jobs), and as a girl who struggles to make decisions this is taking a lot out of me. At the moment my interests lie in criminal family and human rights law (niche, I know). I might even take a shot at working with the Innocence Project and fight to get the wrongfully convicted the justice they deserve. As I continue my LLB journey I know that with all the wonderful people at the Faculty of Law and my personal support system I will be able to find and do something that I am passionate about after graduating. If you’re looking for a school where you can feel at home while studying what you love and gaining so much valuable knowledge, about life and school and everything in between, I cannot speak enough about how Leeds Beckett is the place for you. 

- Joelsa
 

After visiting the UK on a family vacation years ago, there was always something that was pulling me to come back. Once I finished undergrad, I thought doing my masters in the UK would be the best way for me to go back, but also shape my academic and personal growth. A year later, I can honestly say studying in the UK was one of the best decisions of my life and has become my home away from home.
 

The University of Strathclyde Reignited My Love for Learning

At the university I studied the MSc in Neuroscience and Mental Health. What drew me into the program was how the modules were focused on neuroanatomy and the biological processes/mechanisms involved in the brain. All the lectures and modules were engaging and built on one another to help us students have a more cohesive understanding of these different topics. I found myself excited to come to class and made me realize how much I love learning – especially about the brain!

The university itself is right in the heart of Glasgow – making it close to many shops and restaurants! There are also so many clubs and events on campus for students to get involved in. What amazed me the most about Strathclyde was the amount of support provided by the professors and the school itself! They listen and value students’ feedback and ensure students have someone to reach out to in case they need it. As someone who did their undergrad at a very competitive school in Canada that had little to no support for students, I genuinely appreciated the efforts Strathclyde puts towards their students’ wellbeing and overall experience.
 

“People Make Glasgow”

This slogan is plastered everywhere around Glasgow City Centre, and it holds true! The people in Glasgow are very friendly and are always willing to help if you’re lost or need recommendations. Moving abroad, especially on your own, can be quite scary and lonely at times. The community in Glasgow however turned what could have been an intimidating experience into an exciting adventure. I’ve made so many great friends here that I can’t imagine my life without. Their support and kindness made living abroad feel like home. 

Glasgow itself is a hub for many different restaurants, activities and easy transportation links to airports and other parts of Scotland. I would recommend taking the time to explore Glasgow and the rest of Scotland – each place is so unique, and the views are breathtaking.
 

The Journey Made Easier by Across the Pond   

I mean it when I say I couldn’t have made this journey without Across the Pond. From applying to schools to the visa application to the actual move, they helped guide me throughout the entire process and equipped me with many resources and knowledge which made studying abroad less daunting. I am very grateful to have found their services and hope other students looking to study in the UK do the same! 

To anyone considering moving to the UK for school, do it! There will be challenges, but the personal growth and confidence you gain from the experience makes it all worth it. Embrace the adventure, appreciate the highs and lows, and be proud of what you achieve and overcome. 😊

- Ginelle