The right time to return to academia
What motivated me to study in the UK?
Studying for a postgraduate degree abroad had been one of my goals since graduating from university. After several years of developing my career as an architect, I felt it was the right time to return to academia, question some of the ideas and approaches I had worked with until then, and discover new ways of understanding architecture and the city.
I chose the UK because I was looking for an education that combined research, experimentation and design, while allowing me to explore methodologies that were different from those, I was already familiar with. Among the different options I considered, the University of Edinburgh particularly caught my attention because of its academic approach and the opportunity to study architecture in a city with such a distinctive urban, historical and landscape identity.
Edinburgh itself also became an important part of my learning experience. Being able to study the city while living in it allowed me to observe the relationships between architecture, landscape, heritage and nature from a different perspective, and to reflect on how some of this knowledge could eventually be transferred and adapted to other contexts, particularly my own country.
Another important motivation was the challenge of studying entirely in English. Beyond the language itself, I wanted to prove to myself that I could develop academically and professionally within an international environment, communicate my ideas effectively, and work alongside people from different parts of the world.
What was my academic, personal and cultural experience like?
My experience throughout the Master's has been intense, but it has also been one of the most enriching periods of my academic journey. The teaching methodology allowed me to explore architecture from perspectives that I had not previously had the opportunity to develop in such depth.
One of the things I enjoyed most was the opportunity to experiment. The University offers workshops, fabrication facilities and a wide range of resources that allow ideas to move beyond drawings and screens. Throughout the Master's, I was able to conduct research, produce physical models, work with different materials and explore different forms of representation. This made the design process much more open and experimental.
Architecture is a demanding discipline, and the pace of the Master's can be quite intense, particularly during submission periods. However, something that made an important difference was knowing that support was always available. My professors and supervisors were present throughout the development of our projects, not only providing academic guidance but also understanding the challenges that can arise during such a demanding creative process.
Outside the University, living in Edinburgh greatly enriched the overall experience. It is a city where history, architecture and landscape are constantly present. Walking through its streets allows you to encounter different layers of the city's history, while at the same time experiencing a very active cultural life, with festivals, exhibitions and events taking place throughout much of the year.
Studying here made me realise that the university experience does not take place only inside the classroom. The city itself, the people you meet and the culture you experience also become an important part of your education.
What have I learned from this experience?
Probably one of the most important things I am taking away from the Master's is a much broader understanding of architecture.
Previously, I tended to approach design primarily from the perspective of human needs and the relationship between people and space. During the Master's, I began to understand territory as a much more complex system, in which climate, water, topography, vegetation, ecosystems and other species also play an important role.
This perspective gradually changed the way I design. Architecture stopped being, for me, simply a built object and became an intervention within a much broader network of environmental, social and territorial relationships.
I believe this way of thinking is particularly relevant in light of the challenges we currently face, such as climate change, biodiversity loss and the transformation of our ecosystems. As architects and urban designers, we have the opportunity, but also the responsibility, to imagine ways of living that respond more consciously to these conditions. This reflection is also connected to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the need to incorporate these challenges into the education of future generations of professionals.
However, my learning has not been purely academic. Moving to another country, studying in another language and adapting to a different culture also means constantly learning about yourself. This experience has taught me to be more independent, flexible and open to different ways of thinking. It has also given me the opportunity to meet people from different cultures and understand that there can be many different ways of approaching the same challenge.
What do I wish I had known before arriving?
If I could go back to the time before I arrived, one of the first things I would have liked to know is how challenging it can be to find accommodation in Edinburgh, particularly between August and September. During this period, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the large number of visitors to the city and the arrival of new students all coincide, significantly increasing the demand for accommodation. My recommendation to future students would be to start looking for accommodation well in advance.
I also wish I had known more about all the resources available to me as a student before starting the Master's. The University has numerous workshops, fabrication facilities, libraries and other academic resources that can contribute enormously to the development of projects. A more specific introduction to these opportunities from the beginning would have been extremely useful and would have allowed me to make the most of them from my first few months.
There are also some small aspects of everyday life that I wish I had been better prepared for. One of them is the weather. For someone coming from Latin America, adapting to the cold, wind and rain and particularly to the changing hours of daylight throughout the seasons can take some time. Knowing what type of clothing and equipment is genuinely necessary would have made my first few months considerably easier.
Finally, I would recommend listening to different Scottish accents before arriving. You can have a good level of English and still need some time to adjust to certain accents and local expressions. Over time, your ear becomes accustomed to them, and this eventually becomes another interesting part of the experience of living in Scotland.
Looking back, even these small challenges became part of the learning experience. Studying abroad has not only meant gaining new knowledge about architecture, but also learning how to navigate a completely different environment and discovering new perspectives that I hope to carry forward into my professional future.
- Djanira Alexandra
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
Beyond the Classroom
During my university studies, I became interested in pursuing an international postgraduate degree in architecture. I was looking for a renowned university in a country recognised for its rich architectural heritage, so I considered options in North America, Europe, and the United Kingdom. It was during my university search that I discovered Across the Pond, who supported me throughout the application process from the very beginning.
Across the Pond helped me identify the universities and programmes that best aligned with my interests and academic goals. Their guidance was invaluable in helping me explore different funding and educational support options, making it financially possible for me to study abroad. They also provided advice and support with the required documentation, ensuring that I met all the necessary requirements and deadlines. Thanks to Across the Pond, I was able to turn this dream into reality and begin an experience that would transform my academic journey.
Now, as I am about to complete my postgraduate degree, I can look back and recognise how this decision has contributed to my development in different areas. In particular, pursuing a master’s degree in the United Kingdom has been a comprehensive experience that has enriched my academic background, strengthened my personal development, and broadened my cultural perspective.
-
Academically, I not only gained knowledge but also developed new skills and broadened my way of thinking. I learned to question, analyse, and communicate my ideas with greater critical awareness. However, learning did not only take place in the classroom. During my programme, we had the opportunity to take study trips with professors and classmates, visiting towns and places surrounding the city. These experiences were among the most valuable aspects of my time in the UK and are part of what made the experience so unique. Studying Sustainable Design at the University of Edinburgh taught me the importance of integrating social sustainability into design and understanding architecture not only as a response to the physical environment, but also as a tool to improve the quality of life of the people who experience it.
-
On a personal level, I found a balance between my academic and personal life. In the United Kingdom, punctuality is an important part of everyday life, which taught me to organise my activities more effectively and prioritise my tasks. This allowed me to manage my time better without neglecting other aspects of my life. I also learned to budget more carefully, as having a limited financial resource taught me to use my resources responsibly.
-
Finally, culturally, universities in the United Kingdom bring together students from a wide variety of backgrounds. Living and interacting with people from different countries taught me that every encounter can become an opportunity to learn. I came to understand that differences are precisely what enrich a conversation and give rise to new ideas. In the end, curiosity became one of the most important tools throughout my experience: asking questions and listening.
Overall, this opportunity taught me that personal growth also means learning to adapt and taking responsibility for the challenges that arise outside our comfort zone. I realised that this process of adaptation takes place across different areas of life, from the academic to the personal and cultural.
When it comes to the academic experience, I would recommend becoming fully involved in your programme of study and not being afraid of not knowing something. We are here precisely to learn, ask questions, make mistakes, and discover. There is no need to arrive with all the answers; part of the experience is allowing yourself to learn along the way.
Similarly, small aspects of everyday life can have a significant impact on how we experience living in another country. For example, before arriving, it would have been helpful to prepare myself better for the climate, particularly for the winter and the way it can affect one's mood. For this reason, I believe it is important to build a support network from the beginning and, if possible, arrive a few days before the programme starts in order to become familiar with the city and make the adaptation process easier.
Finally, pursuing a master’s degree in the United Kingdom marked a turning point in my professional career. In my professional practice, I will be able to apply what I have learned to project and budget management, particularly when defining priorities and allocating resources efficiently. I also developed skills in listening and negotiation, reconciling different perspectives, and developing more inclusive and context-sensitive solutions. This experience strengthened my ability to adapt to new projects, teams, and working methodologies.
Today, I take with me a broader perspective of the world and a strong commitment to applying what I have learned to create a positive impact in Mexico.
- María Eugenia
Scottish magic (beyond castles)
Living in Edinburgh has been one of the best experiences of my life. Scotland is a multicultural, respectful, and friendly country. From the very first moment, you feel welcome and, most importantly, incredibly safe.
Upon arriving in the city, the first thing that catches your eye is its antiquity. From the buildings to the streets, everything feels like a perfectly preserved time capsule.
When I arrived in early September, the weather was amazing, with very long, sunny days, and everyone enjoying the streets (and the beer).
I ended up living in a building built nearly a century ago. I could have never imagined it: a beautifully maintained apartment with high ceilings and spacious windows. That space hosted me for almost a year and brought me so much joy.
Scotland is a dream destination for students. While I had the privilege of experiencing it in Edinburgh, and exploring famous castles is great for a couple of days, the true essence of the country lies in the famous Highlands.
I was able to travel around the north of the country with my parents in a campervan, which is an affordable and budget-friendly option depending on the season. The country is perfectly adapted for this type of travel, and there is an incredible camper culture.
During our road trip, we encountered breathtaking landscapes, national parks, the famous Highland cows, sheep, whisky everywhere, and dozens of castles. We met people from all over the world, and the locals always showed the best vibes.
What surprised us most was the trust of the local people. In many spots, you could spend the night simply leaving a contribution in "honesty boxes", relying entirely on mutual trust. In the same way, you can buy fresh eggs or products right at the entrance of local farms.
The biggest challenge was getting used to driving on the left side of the road, but after just a couple of hours behind the wheel, you easily get into the rhythm without any issues.
I highly recommend choosing Scotland as your study destination without a second thought, especially if you are looking for peace, stunning nature, and a beautiful journey back in time.
- Javiera
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
