Semester in Scotland - University of Stirling

I studied abroad in Stirling, Scotland, and it was an incredible experience. The town is beautiful, with Stirling Castle at its center and quick access to both Edinburgh and Glasgow. The University of Stirling campus is just as stunning, with Loch Airthrey, walking paths, and even a castle on the grounds. Hiking Dumyat Peak at sunset with friends was one of my favorite memories. What stood out most was the people, everyone I met was welcoming and kind, from strangers on trains to my flatmates who made my 21st birthday unforgettable. Joining the archery club also helped me make local friends and feel part of the community. Stirling is the perfect balance of a close-knit, residential town with easy connections to larger cities. I can’t recommend it enough for anyone considering studying abroad in Scotland!

Stirling is truly a special place in my heart. It is seated at the base of the low highlands which makes it a perfect place to explore nature but the town is super accessible as well as the train station to visit cities or other towns in the highlands. Scotland is full of deeply kind people who truly want to make your experience an enjoyable one and are always happy to help or even just have a conversation with you. There is also a rich history in Stirling of many famous battles and Scottish monarchies. It is a wonderful place with equally, if not more, wonderful people.

The program was there 24/7 if you had any questions. The site director in Scotland was one of the kindest individuals I have ever met. She was always available and approachable regardless of the circumstance. The program included a group Highland trip at the start of the semester. This trip was probably one of my fondest memories of my experience. My site director had a wealth of knowledge of Scotland, only enhancing the amazing tour guide we were provided with. The program built an approachable sense of community and the trip was a chance to strengthen our relationships. My flatmates went with another provider and did not have as many outings, lacked a sight director and did not receive much support. Many of the basic information CIS had provided before even leaving our hometowns wasn't provided to them until weeks into the experience. CISabroad made the application process and transition to a new country extremely easy. You will not regret working with this program, it really is worth the money because of the lasting support you are provided. Throughout my time in Scotland I found out more about myself spiritually and physically. My ancestors were from Dundee, Scotland, northeast from where I was positioned. I found fascinating history about the clan my ancestors were apart of and even was able to see the grave of a famous member of my descendents clan, Rob Roy Macgregor. Another very awakening experience was swimming in Loch Ness. I was with a tour group of 13 people with only 3 other individuals willing to take the plunge in the 35 degree weather. It was an invigorating experience to swim in a body of water that contained as much water as all of the bodies of water in the UK combined, not to mention the obvious threat of the lochness monster. Stirlings small town environment allowed me to feel like I was apart of a community and enriched my experience. I was happy to be an hour away from both the largest cities, Glasgow and Edinburgh. It made day trips on the train to the city easy, while being able to return to the quietness of Stirling.