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My First Days in the UK: Adjusting to Scotland
My move to Scotland didn’t feel real until I stepped into Aberdeen Airport, fresh from a 9.5-hour flight from Toronto. I staggered off the plane and walked towards baggage claim. Alone. I felt tired, thirsty, and completely unprepared for my journey ahead. I recalled the long hours editing personal statements, corresponding with references, and gathering writing samples. At the time, I thought nothing was more arduous than my postgraduate applications. But in hindsight, pressing “submit” was the easiest part of the process. Cramming my life into two suitcases, on the other hand? Quite the challenge.
ARRIVAL
Nothing truly compares to the experience of entering a new city. The world feels fresh and uncharted. Despite my sudden dose of reality, I couldn’t wait to begin my adventure in the UK. The first item on my To-Do list? Visiting the University of Aberdeen, A.K.A. my home for the next year.
The King’s College campus greeted me with weathered brick buildings and climbing ivy as I walked through the gates for the first time. Founded in 1495, the University of Aberdeen is the third oldest university in Scotland and the fifth oldest university the UK. If you have no other motivation to study in the UK, the cozy old-world charm of the universities ought to be a strong starting point.
SETTLING IN
Since moving abroad comes with a long checklist, finding an affordable student flat should not be your top priority. To save myself the hassle of house-hunting, I opted for off-campus student accommodation. Fortunately, the University placed me in a complex with other postgraduate students, making it easy to meet people with likeminded interests.
I arrived in Scotland one week before my check-in date, which is something I highly recommend. With one week to spare, I had time to overcome my jetlag, shop for items that wouldn’t fit in my suitcase (i.e. raincoat, bedding, stationary), and travel around Scotland. By the time I moved into my flat, I had already adapted to the groove of Aberdeen.
FRESHER’S WEEK
The University kicked into gear with Fresher’s Week on the day I moved in. Many events and activities are targeted towards undergraduates; however, all students are welcome to enjoy the many offerings of free food, live music, and poster sales.
Fresher’s Week also included promotional fairs, such as the “Societies Fayre” and “Sports Fayre.” During these events, student societies and sports teams arranged booths on campus for students to browse around and sign up. I can’t speak for every UK university, but societies and teams are a major component of student life at the University of Aberdeen. They can be a great way to meet new friends, so I definitely recommend attending Fresher’s Week for these initial meet-and-greets.
STARTING CLASSES
On Orientation Day, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that my program only consists of seven other people. Postgraduate programs in the UK are typically quite small, so you quickly become close with your classmates. The class structure, however, required more adjusting. For me, classes occur in blocks, with each class running back-to-back for three week intervals. This system has its pros and cons.
Con: Three weeks of intensive reading, lecturing, and studying.
Pro: No exams in December!
I won’t pretend that moving overseas is easy. I felt displaced for two weeks before I began to acclimatize and feel at home. But these initial feelings shrink in comparison to the people you’ll meet, the places you’ll visit, and the lifelong memories you’ll create.
- Hailey
Studying Communications in the UK
Time passes quickly in Aberdeen. The leaves drop without warning and the sun sets earlier every day. It’s hard to believe that two months have passed since the beginning of the semester. I’ve submitted essays, worked on group projects, and given presentations. Yet, I still feel as if I only arrived last week.
I study an MSc in Professional Communication. The program combines linguistics and business, offering a practical approach to the science of communication. Prof. Comm. students learn to communicate effectively across disciplines – a feature that attracted me to the subject. Like any communications program, Prof. Comm. teaches skills that are invaluable and applicable to almost every field of study.
WHY COMMUNICATIONS?
Jim Rohn said, “Take advantage of every opportunity to practice your communication skills so that when important occasions arise, you will have the gift, the style, the sharpness, the clarity, and the emotions to affect other people.”
Like many 22-year-olds, my career is still up in the air. I’ve toyed with the ideas of writing, editing, journalism, and public relations. Sadly, no degree combines all of these areas.
Communications is a perfect option for people like us – those who haven’t quite made up their minds yet. I don’t imply that you should use a communications degree to kill time. Rather, you should study communications to add depth to your career. The subject is universal and timeless. You can bring these skills to any job, now or in the future.
Without a doubt, writing is my vocation. Yet, the idea of a full-blown communications degree appealed to me. Even if you have a strong understanding of your professional interests, communication is an extremely practical tool to have on your resume. It complements every field – you can’t go wrong.
WHY THE UK?
Communication is always relevant, no matter the country. That being said, I believe you have more to gain from studying communications in a new country. Here’s why:
- You witness how different cultures communicate within themselves and with outsiders.
- You incorporate new communicative styles into your behaviour that you can bring back to Canada.
- Different countries teach different histories and methodologies. You learn about your subject from an alternative perspective.
COMMUNICATIONS IN THE UK VS. CANADA
Studying in the UK expands your travel options tenfold. Cheap airlines, trains, and busses offer you the opportunity to explore Europe on a student budget. Spain for the weekend? Sure. Edinburgh for lunch? No problem.
Program length is also a major contender for studying in the UK. In Canada, Master’s programs usually last two to three years, full-time. But in the UK, your Master’s will only take one year to complete. Studying in the UK is a great way to accelerate your degree if you want to enter the workforce faster.
BACHELOR’S WORKLOAD VS. MASTER’S WORKLOAD
Undergraduate degrees require you to take several courses at once – typically, full-time students take 4 or 5 a semester. But in my program, I’m only required to study one course at a time. The classes run back-to-back: I have three classes each semester and my final dissertation over the summer.
Naturally, program structures shift from undergraduate to graduate levels. A full-time Bachelor’s student will take a variety of different electives, on top of their required program courses. In my opinion, Master’s degrees are more efficient; I’m only required to take program-specific classes. You might discover that graduate classes demand more effort. However, you end up with more spare time, so your schedule balances out in the long-run.
Time drags when you choose a program or university out of convenience. Don’t settle. Make decisions that will lead to your happiness. Make decisions that will make the months feel like minutes.
- Hailey
LOSE THE FEAR OF FINANCING, FIDERH REALLY HELPS YOU
Fight for Your Dreams
I am originally from Mexico City, and for a long time I knew that I wanted to pursue a master’s degree in International Intellectual Property and Information Law in the United Kingdom. My goal was to specialize in an area I am passionate about while also opening doors in a global work environment. That is why I decided to study in the United Kingdom, not only because of the great reputation of its educational system but also because I wanted to experience studying in a country where English is spoken, a language essential for my professional development in Intellectual Property.
I chose the University of Aberdeen because its program is innovative, modern, and very well-structured, in addition to having an excellent faculty team. However, I knew that achieving this dream would require not only dedication and effort but also financial resources. And that’s where I discovered FIDERH, one of the best decisions I could make.
Why FIDERH: Invest in Your Future
At first, the idea of financing my studies made me somewhat nervous. However, I soon understood that investing in your education is investing in yourself, and that having support like FIDERH makes the process much simpler and more accessible. Without hesitation, I can say that FIDERH is one of the best financing options available in Mexico for those of us who want to study abroad.
The application process is clear and organized: you just need to gather the required documents and meet the established deadlines. Therefore, organization is key to successfully applying for and obtaining this financing. In addition, the amount they finance is significant, covering an important part of tuition and living expenses. In my case, I complemented the financing with my savings, and it was enough to cover my needs during the master’s program. If you need additional funding, there are many other options that can complement it and are also manageable to repay, such as FUNED.
One of the aspects I value most about FIDERH is that, upon finishing your studies, it grants a one-year grace period before you start payments. This allows you to find employment calmly and plan your personal finances. Furthermore, once you begin repayment, the term to settle the loan is up to 10 years, which allows you to manage the monthly payments calmly and without unnecessary pressure. Even the interest rate for late payments is low, providing even more flexibility and security. Of course, you can also pay it off much earlier than 10 years if you prefer.
Another great advantage of FIDERH is that many universities, such as the University of Aberdeen, have agreements with Mexico and offer up to a 20% discount on tuition if you have this financing. This represents a considerable saving and makes the option even more attractive and viable.
You should see your master’s degree as a long-term investment. In my case, shortly after completing my studies, I began receiving job offers from firms specializing in Intellectual Property in Mexico through LinkedIn. Having a degree from a recognized foreign university greatly increases your professional projection, and with a good position, it becomes much easier to repay the financing in a short time.
Key Tips for a Successful Application
If you are considering applying, I want to share some practical tips that made my process easier:
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Certificate of No Liens: This can be a complicated process and may take some time depending on the region where the property is located. In my case, I delegated it to a notary to speed it up since it is not very expensive. It is important to request the physical version, as FIDERH does not accept digital certificates due to the lack of a handwritten signature.
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Credit Bureau Report: This document is essential and must be submitted for both you and your guarantor. In theory, it is easy to process, but in my case, I faced several issues. I had moved, and although I had updated my information at the bank, the institution did not reflect it correctly, so the report could not be generated. Additionally, when I tried to obtain my guarantor’s report, an additional problem arose: their name and compound surname matched those of their child, and the information was mixed in the system, preventing the correct report. This taught me that you must start this process well in advance, check that all personal information is correct, and if necessary, go directly to the institutions to resolve any errors.
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Unconditional Letter of Acceptance from the University: FIDERH requires an unconditional acceptance letter. Therefore, it is important to apply first to the universities of your interest and meet their requirements, such as the IELTS exam, well in advance.
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Apply in the First Call: There are fewer applicants, which increases your chances of being approved, and it will allow you to calmly plan other procedures, such as finding accommodation, knowing that you already have this financial support.
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Talk to Your Guarantor from the Start: Explain the benefits of the financing and, very importantly, clarify that the property presented as collateral is not encumbered, which provides peace of mind.
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Use the Support of Across the Pond: This help was essential for completing all my procedures with FIDERH. They are experts in the process, always have the best advice, and are willing to resolve any questions or difficulties that arise. They are very attentive, kind, and capable professionals, true dream enablers, who make the entire process much clearer and more manageable.
My Conclusion: Investing in Your Future is Betting on Yourself
Thanks to FIDERH and the support I received from my advisors at Across the Pond, I was able to take the most important step of my career: studying my master’s at the University of Aberdeen. While it involves preparation, procedures, and organization, it is completely worth it. Do not be afraid to finance your education; with FIDERH, you receive real support, extended terms, and accessible conditions, unlike many other financing options with less favorable conditions for the beneficiary, such as excessively high interest rates or very short repayment periods.
My recommendation is clear: lose the fear of financing with FIDERH. If you work with discipline, stay informed, and seize opportunities, this support will become the engine you need to achieve your academic and professional goals and take a huge leap forward in your development.
- Paola
My Christmas Trip to Edinburgh: An Unforgettable Experience in the Scottish Capital
For Christmas I decided to escape from the routine of Aberdeen to explore Edinburgh and its Christmas market for 3 days. What began as a spontaneous idea became a very beautiful trip. The cobblestone streets, its medieval architecture, the Christmas decorations and its vibrant culture, Edinburgh captivated me from the first moment.
To get from Aberdeen to Edinburgh I had two main options: train and bus. After comparing prices and schedules, I opted for the train, which turned out to be an excellent decision. The journey lasted approximately 3 hours, and the cost of the round-trip ticket was £45 with the rail card (a card that gives you discounts on train tickets). The bus alternative would have been more economical (around £25 round trip), but with a duration of almost 4 hours, I preferred the comfort and speed of the train.
Accommodation: Finding a Place to Rest
One of my biggest concerns was the cost of accommodation, since Edinburgh has a reputation for being one of the most expensive cities in the United Kingdom. After searching various options, I found a hostel in the historic center for £53 per night in a shared room. For those who prefer more privacy, hotels located in the historic center in the new part of the city ranged between £85-£120 per night, while hotel chains further from the center offered rates from £60.
I decided to stay at the Kick Ass hostel, located just five minutes' walk from Edinburgh Castle. Although the facilities were basic, the location was unbeatable and the atmosphere was very welcoming, with tourists from all over the world sharing experiences in the common room.
Main Tourist Attractions
Among the main attractions I visited, my first stop was the iconic Edinburgh Castle. The entrance cost £19.50, but it was worth every penny. Walking through its ancient walls transported me centuries back. The panoramic view of the city from the ramparts is simply spectacular, especially at sunset when the city lights began to shine.
My second stop was the famous Victoria Street, known worldwide as the inspiration for Diagon Alley from Harry Potter. Walking down this cobblestone and winding street was like entering a magical world. The colorful shops with their medieval facades and boutique stores created a unique atmosphere. I spent more than an hour exploring the shops, especially those dedicated to Harry Potter items and Scottish souvenirs.
After that I walked the famous Royal Mile. This historic street, which connects the castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse, is full of souvenir shops and traditional pubs, which offer an excellent opportunity to experience the Scottish atmosphere.
The Christmas market was undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places of the trip. This market, considered one of the best in the United Kingdom, extended like a labyrinth of small wooden houses decorated with bright lights and Christmas decorations. The aroma of spiced mulled wine, roasted chestnuts and traditional Scottish sweets could be felt in every corner. I spent hours exploring the stalls, where I found everything from local crafts to culinary delights. I tried the famous Scottish shortbread, bought some unique handmade gifts and enjoyed a cup of mulled wine that helped me combat the winter cold.
Dean Village also turned out to be one of the most pleasant surprises of my trip. This small historic village, located just a few minutes from the city center, seems taken directly from a medieval movie. You can see several stone houses that are located next to a river which makes the landscape look more beautiful.
Final Reflections
Edinburgh exceeded all my expectations. The Christmas atmosphere and Scottish hospitality were felt in every corner of the city. This trip reminded me why I love living in Scotland. Having access to gems like Edinburgh just a train ride away is a privilege I don't take for granted.
Edinburgh is not just a city to visit; it's an experience to live, a history lesson walking through its streets, and a reminder of the rich cultural heritage that characterizes Scotland.
- Paola
Making the Most of My Study Experience to Explore the United Kingdom
When I decided to study in the United Kingdom, I knew that this opportunity meant not only a quality education, but also the unique possibility of exploring one of the countries with the greatest historical and cultural richness in Europe. During my stay in the United Kingdom, I have managed to organize my time to visit fascinating cities that have deeply enriched my personal and academic experience.
The Best Times to Travel
My experience has taught me that timing is fundamental to making the most of travels throughout the United Kingdom. The summer months, especially from June to August, became my favorites for traveling, as during these dates, the days are considerably longer, and the weather is warmer. However, I also discovered the special charm of traveling during university vacation periods in spring and autumn. In April and May, the gardens are in full bloom, and August-September offers pleasant temperatures with fewer tourist crowds.
My Best Travel Investment
One of the smartest decisions I made was acquiring a Railcard at the beginning of my stay. This card, which costs £30 annually, provided me with discounts on all my train journeys. Considering that a trip from Aberdeen to London can easily cost £85, the card paid for itself after just three long trips.
The flexibility it gave me was invaluable. I could make spontaneous travel decisions during weekends, knowing that transportation costs would be significantly lower.
Strategic Planning: Following Geography
One of the most costly mistakes I almost made was planning trips without considering the country's geography. Initially, I thought of visiting London, then Edinburgh, then Bath, and finally Liverpool. This route would have meant constantly going back and forth across the map, doubling my transportation costs and travel time.
Instead, I developed a "linear routes" strategy that saved me considerable money and time. For example, one of my most successful routes was: London → Oxford → Bath → Birmingham → York → Edinburgh. This sequence allowed me to explore systematically, visiting each city along the way without backtracking, and also allowed me to gradually observe the cultural and landscape changes of the country, from the cosmopolitan cities of the south to the dramatic Scottish landscapes.
Maximizing Weekends and Holidays
My travel strategy was completely adapted to my academic calendar. Long weekends became perfect opportunities to explore nearby cities. From my base in Aberdeen, I could take full-day trips to Dunnottar Castle or Glasgow in the same day.
For more distant destinations like England, I reserved the longer university holidays. This planning allowed me to completely immerse myself in each region without the pressure of returning quickly to my studies.
Final Reflections
Studying in the United Kingdom gave me much more than an academic education; it offered me an incomparable window to explore centuries of history, from the Roman walls of York to the medieval castles of Dunnottar. Each trip complemented my formal education, providing me with experiences I will always remember.
The key to success was treating these trips not as a distraction from my studies, but as an integral extension of my educational experience. Each city visited added a new dimension to my understanding of British culture, its history, and its regional diversity. At the end of my program, I will not only obtain an academic degree, but also a deep appreciation for the cultural richness of this extraordinary country and memories that I will treasure for life.
- Paola