Exchange Scotland really made me see life through a new set of eyes! Past Review

By (All Social Science Teaching, University of Northern Iowa) for

University of Edinburgh: Edinburgh - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned how to relax more and go with the flow because in a foreign country so many things can trip you up. It's how you handle it that determines if you have a good outcome. I absolutely love the experience abroad and made a ton of friends that I will most definitely stay in contact with however, I wish some more planning had occurred on my end for the school because my University is picky about transferred classes.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The workload could be heavy but often wasn't. Unless appointments were made to speak with the professor about what was going on in the discussion, there was little interaction between professor and student at the international university.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

There were many opportunities for international students to seek help or guidance if needed as well as many social activities.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Actually my original housing flooded before I landed in Scotland so I had different housing then expected but it ended up well in the end.

* Food:

Food and quality/ quantity was pretty similar to home. Dining was awesome at some of the local restaurants. Westerton Arms!!!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Adventure to Edinburgh changed my life and I want to have a property there one day. It is absolutely amazing.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

The city seemed relatively safe. There were a few outdoor brawls but the police are not allowed to carry guns so most fights were simply broken up and folks went on about their business.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? No

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Language

If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The opportunities international student had to get involved.
* What could be improved?
  • The housing arrangements