How to Study Abroad in Scotland A Walk Through History. Exploring Scotland gives you the chance to see many of the sites you learned about in European history books. Those familiar with the story of William Wallace, a hero during the Wars of Scottish Independence (loosely adapted in the film Braveheart) should visit the monument to this “Guardian of Scotland” in Stirling. It is the site of the Battle of Stirling Bridge, where Wallace helped to defeat the English army.
In Edinburgh, visitors can go to St. Giles Cathedral and see a replica of the stool Jenny Geddes threw at the minister to protest public use of the Anglican Book of Common Prayer. Or, visit Greyfriars Kirk to see where the National Covenant was signed in 1638. Tour Edinburgh Castle where Mary, Queen of Scots lived and gave birth to James VI. Check out the crown jewels and tour the Palace of Holyroodhouse, home of the British royal family when they visit Edinburgh.
Getting Around In Scotland. There are numerous day and weekend trips available to students. These include a Harry Potter tour in Edinburgh, which takes you to see places where J.K. Rowling drew inspiration and wrote the books (you can even see a Tom Riddle gravestone if you know where to look!); a trip to the Highlands where you can photograph stunning mountainous landscapes, historic castles, and Loch Ness; or a jaunt to some of the islands, such as the Isle of Skye. Travel to other parts of the U.K. or Europe is made easy through relatively cheap trains or flights.
Recommended Activities In Scotland. Study abroad programs give valuable insight into a different culture, geography, and history than you find in your own country. Take the time to learn about the history of Scotland through visiting any of the numerous museums, such as the National Museum, the Police Museum, and the Portrait Museum.
Go on a tour of underground vaults and learn what life was like during the Middle Ages. Watch, learn, and join in a demonstration of Highland Country dancing: it is loads of fun, and the locals will help you with the steps. Definitely try the haggis — it might not appear to be appetizing but looks can be deceiving; besides, everyone’s going to want to know what you thought of it. Jump into the local culture!
Sporty types will want to take a trip to St. Andrews, a short train ride from Edinburgh, to hit the links at the Old Course where golf was first played 600 years ago. Scotland is known the world over for its stunningly beautiful (and staggeringly difficult) golf courses. Avid golfers won’t have to travel far to play — there’s a golf course on campus at University of Stirling, and across from the student apartments at Edinburgh Napier University.
Student Life in Scotland. Housing for international students at University of Stirling and Edinburgh Napier University means living in shared flats. You have your own sleeping space but share a kitchen, living area, and bathrooms. There are numerous Tescos and Sainsburys (local grocery stores) within the cities. You can even sign up to have your groceries delivered.
You can get involved on campus by signing up for academic or sports clubs such as skydiving or rugby. Make the effort to reach out to the other students in your tutorials or clubs, cook meals together, make travel plans, or learn to use the well-oiled public transportation system together, all of which will enhance your study abroad experience in Scotland.