Ecology Conservation Program in Scotland - Adelante Abroad

Adelante's study abroad program exceeded my expectations, I received equal levels of cultural experiences and academic knowledge. The program's lecturers were beyond knowledgable about their respective subjects and wanted us to have the best time possible. This is the easiest and funnest way to earn some college credit whilst you are a in another country.

One of the first cultural experiences we went to was a traditional Scottish dance called a Ceilidh. I'm not a dancer by any means, but I'm glad I gave a couple dances a try. This is a good chance to meet students from the college and get to know the other students in the summer program. The staff are extremely kind and are willing to make the program a better experience for you. One in particular is a bit intense, but they are trying to give you the hands on activity you wouldn't get somewhere else. So bring a good pair of hiking boots, wool socks, and a rain jacket. Layering is also the best way to keep warm if you tend to be cold. Scotland is a bit cooler and ranges from mid 50s to mid 60s as highs with little humidity and is usually cloudy. One of my favorite activities that we did as bird ringing (or bird banding in the US). They had a couple licensed ringers show us how to ring birds, measure their wings, and then release them. We also did plenty of hiking "wee hills" one of which was Cairngorm.

This study abroad trip with Adelante to Scotland was my first experience to see a completely new environment and culture. Although I have been a well versed travel in the Untied States. None of my past experiences come close to the experience I have had in Scotland this past month. For a country that is so small compared to the United States, Scotland has such a diverse landscape. From the Lowlands to the Highlands, Scotland has some of the most magnificent scenery I have ever seen. This trip has made me want to visit more places around the world, but hopefully in the near future I can come back to Scotland.