Design Study Abroad Programs in Edinburgh, Scotland

I was part of a trial program between API and my university where we combined our in-person specialized university classes with Heriot Watts university. Because it was a new program, the onboarding process gave little to no details and left students in the dark. But once I got to Scotland, I met a lot of Heriot Watt students that I'm still friends with a year later and go to go see Scotland through excursions and personal adventures. I learned how to be more independent and confident in self. Some hiccups that happened were the fire alarm going off 13 times during the night in a single month in my accommodation, but API Edinburgh team helped me moved into another building and getting appointments at the GP was difficult especially without a UK number. Overall, I had a great time and encourage others to take the chance and study abord.

I really struggled in adapting when I studied abroad. I didn't know anyone else in my program, and I had a couple of health issues that made the start difficult. However, API helped me tremendously to fit it. They helped me relocate, took me to the doctor, and were a wonderful support to lean on. I am so happy I picked this program, as by the end, I couldn't believe I had to go home. I ended up making wonderful friends, and having an incredible 4 months.

Edinburgh is a hidden gem of a city, it was like walking into a different time period. There were plenty of opportunities for students to join in on school functions, everyone was very kind and inviting. The transportation was super to figure out and my confidence grew so much from my experience!

As I reflect on my time in Scotland I can’t help but get emotional and express gratitude at the fact that I got to experience an amazing culture and people. I decided to study abroad while sitting in my research methods class, which was taught by Dr. Frischherz. Her passion and realness instantly persuaded me to apply for the trip. This was my first time outside of the country so I was a bit anxious, but that was quickly overcome with excitement. I truly believe we had the most amazing coordinator because our CISabroad onsite coordinator, Shandin, far exceeded expectations. She was clearly knowledgeable about the location and engaged in many conversations with us from academics to politics to pop music. She was a pivotal part of why the trip was as great as it was. The hostel was great (minus no hot water initially) and was located perfectly. It was nice being in the hotel for a week because it was right on princess street, had amazing breakfast and sticky bbq wings, and had a view of the castle. I was taken by surprise at how accepting the locals were of different types of people. That was evident in the way they treated minorities in regards to race, gender, ability, and socioeconomic status. One thing that really stood out was the way the homeless were treated. The stigma was gone and they were treated as humans. That was a refreshing thing to see because of how different the homeless are treated in Baltimore. The food was absolutely AMAZING. It’s very clear that they don’t beef their animals up worn steroids. Things were fresh, and minus the deep fried foods, healthier. I enjoyed walking most places and not having the ability to text or talk to people often. I was able to take it all in and appreciate being in the moment. I’m excited to talk about this trip for the years to come. It has truly changed my life.

IFSA-Butler did an incredible job of helping students to both adjust to life abroad and find their place within a new city. I felt very supported from before I even got on the plane to Edinburgh, Scotland up to the end of my semester abroad. IFSA-Butler helped me choose the right classes for me and work through those classes when I needed it. One of my favorite parts about the opportunities IFSA opened up for me were the sponsored trips I attended to a homestay and the Highlands of Scotland. My homestay in Cumbria, England at Learning Field CIC allowed me to learn about another culture and understand how life on a farm is. The trip we took for a weekend into the Highlands was incredible! From learning about sheepdog training to tasting whiskey at the Glenlivet distillery to searching for Nessie to learning about the Battle of Culloden and visiting Glencoe, my weekend was filled with adventure and knowledge. I would even say my entire semester was filled with a growth in knowledge and a plethora of adventure! I couldn't be more grateful for my fulfilling semester in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Without a doubt, there isn't a day that goes by without me thinking or talking about my time studying abroad in Scotland with API! Where to begin - from the moment I decided to apply to the program, the entire admissions staff was extremely helpful (not to mention incredibly kind) in guiding me through the application process. Once I was accepted & flash forward to my arrival day in Scotland, I felt a genuine sense of comfort knowing that I had a program manager (living in the country) who I could message anytime with questions, advice or simply see while hanging out on weekend cultural immersive API events. Furthermore, I chose to study abroad with API because I loved the idea that being with API meant that there would be a whole other group of American students studying abroad with me - as I didn't know anyone at the University of Edinburgh before arrival, it was nice to know that I would have a whole immediate group of 'friends' to build a connection with as we explored living in the city (who I still to this day stay in touch with)! Not to mention, the University of Edinburgh was honestly a dream school for me - If I could be a student for life, I would probably study there for the duration :) Overall, anyone looking for the best study abroad experience, look no further, whether you go to Scotland or anywhere else with API, you're sure to be in great hands as it was one of the best times of my life (API, University of Edinburgh, 2018).

I absolutely adored my time in Edinburgh. I wanted a program where I could study abroad for the entire year and IFSA provided just that opportunity. They made it very clear from the beginning that the program advisors would be there for me as little or as much as I needed them. I knew I could reach out at anytime if I had any problem and they always gave me wonderful and insightful advice. They encouraged me to get involved in a variety of student activities and it was this that really made my year. I joined a competition a cappella group and made some of the best friends I have ever had. We ended up winner the Scottish A Cappella Championships, which was amazing. I also received expert advice on how best to save money in the city and how to take advantage of the different modes of transportation to save time and expenses. The orientation we went to had a lot of good advice that really helped to prepare me for living on my own in a foreign city. I now have many of my closest friendships based in Edinburgh and I am hoping for the opportunity to move back there sometime soon however that may be possible! I can't recommend IFSA University of Edinburgh highly enough.

I have always wanted to study abroad. I knew since I was in 5th grade that this was an all time dream for me. Little did I know that my study abroad experience would be greater than I could ever imagine! I created life long relationships, realized that I wanted to live abroad for a period of time after college, and had the opportunity to further my progression in becoming a global citizen. I am so grateful for the moments I had, and I know that I will cherish my time abroad forever. Edinburgh, Scotland, and the University of Edinburgh was exactly what I was looking for, and IFSA-Butler made my transition into a new city effortless, giving me the independence and confidence to make friends with people different to me and from different places. Thank you IFSA-Butler and to Scotland!!

"Why Scotland?", you might ask? My reply, "Why NOT Scotland?!" Almost a year ago today, I left the States for what I now reflect back on as the best 4 months of my college experience. As someone who had never been abroad before last year, I was fairly nervous for this new adventure. Thankfully, I knew that my IFSA representative Michelle had set me up to be fully prepared as I made my way across time zones to the UK. Arriving into the Edinburgh airport I was filled with excitement as my two best friends and I joined hands and headed into a cab driving on the WRONG side of the road. I still don't know if the American in me will ever get over driving on the left. The next few days were filled with orientation by the IFSA program office in Edinburgh. Several lovely folks explained what we should expect over the next few months, and how we should prepare for the homestay which they had arranged for the coming weekends. After a whirlwind of a long weekend, we were finally dropped at our flats and ready to explore. Looking back, the one word I would use to describe Scotland is "wee". And I use this word in the best way possible. The country itself feels like a small town. Each person that you meet greets you with a smile like they've known you as an old friend, and would sit down to have whiskey and chips to talk for hours. The small shops fill the small streets, and even the coffees are small. The country wraps you up, and makes you feel warm inside, and I promise it's not just from all the whiskey and gin (though that is pretty good too). One of the most amazing parts of being in Edinburgh was that each part of the city had history. From the Palace of Holyroodhouse, to Edinburgh Castle, to Arthur's Seat and Calton Hill, every step that you take there is history that dates back centuries. I mean, imagine walking to starbucks and you have to take the road past the castle, incredible! Though there is plenty of older history, there is also very current history on the streets that you walk. Almost every day I walked past the cafe where J.K. Rowling wrote "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" *cue fan-girl me* or down Victoria Street where she based Diagon Alley off of. Very frequently too would I walk by camera crews filming car chases for the film Fast and Furious 9. For such a small city, there are a thousand amazing things happening on the daily. The academics at the University of Edinburgh are unlike any American university that I've ever seen, but it just makes your experience abroad that much more of an adventure. The course schedule at the University is very flexible to allow the student time for class, studies and extra-curriculars. While abroad I was part of the Edinbellas, and all female acapella group at the University! I also took a full course load of classes, and had plenty of time to travel around Europe on the weekends. Much of the hard work involved in these courses at UoE comes in around finals time. There isn't too much homework throughout the semester so exams are about 60% or more of your final grade. This does provide you with more free time throughout the months of September - November, but be prepared for a December of hitting the books. Though the campus is spread out around the city, everything is very walkable, just make sure to bundle up because the winters can get mighty cold! A very unique part of the IFSA at University of Edinburgh program is the home stay, which happened for me around the end of September. I had the privilege of staying at a farm in North Cumbria, England. Here I got to see the wondrous UK countryside, which is absolutely breathtaking. Imagine the greenest green you've ever seen, and then make it greener. That is the English/Scottish countryside. Just miles and miles of rolling green hills, and the furriest little cows and sheep that one has ever seen. Since I spent most of my days in the city, having this weekend to wander the countryside melted my heart. I think this was truly the moment that I fell in love with my study abroad experience and knew that it would absolutely change my life forever. I do not think that there will ever be a day when I do not dream of being in Scotland. Especially during this pandemic, a scone and hot breakfast tea at the National Museum of Scotland on a rainy day has never seemed more appealing. I know that it is such a clique to say "Study Abroad Changed my Life" but I cannot think of anything more true about the experience that I had. I feel like a more independent adult, and a more cultured citizen after spending my time in the UK. Between the people that I met from around the globe, to the places that I was able to travel, my time abroad gave me perspective that I may not have gathered any other way. As nerve racking as it might be, there is nothing more incredible than an experience abroad. Words cannot do it justice. So, take my advice and plan a study abroad to see for yourself just how incredible of a journey it is.

Scotland, a beautiful land full of adventure and kindness, community and acceptance. From the lowlands to the highlands, this beautiful country was stunning and full of life. I enjoyed my time in Edinburgh which seemed stuck in medieval times with castles, cobbled pathways, and gothic-esque architecture. The ability to live in a city in which the historical essence has been preserved was amazing. Though on the outside everything seemed ancient, Edinburgh is at the forefront of modern living. Public transport is easily accessible, Wi-Fi was not hard to find (there was even some on the buses!), and my university accommodations were excellent. Before starting University, IFSA held an orientation in which academics, city life, culture, and other helpful tidbits of knowledge were discussed. The orientation was partially helpful, and I learned enough to be safe in the city; however, I do wish there would have been more structured tours in tutorials for example how to take the various transport shuttles. The academics at the University are top-notch and if you except to slack academically think again. Lecturers, as well as tutors, expect active engagement with the material in addition to engagement with peers. Though the contact hours vary greatly from the United States and the number of classes which a student is required to take is lower does not mean it is easier in any way. A big problem that I had with the university at times is the way the information would be presented. In the United States, I attend a historically black college/ university (HBCU) and major in African American Studies. I took an African Studies class, a Spanish class, and a sociology class. The Spanish class was amazing, difficult, and challenged me to truly learn the language. The sociology class was introductory and covered a wide range of topics. The class was fine, but some examples used within the class specifically when it came to people of color seemed wrong and raised a few of my feathers. The African studies course was were a lot of my problems resided. The course is an African studies course which did not focus on Africa, but rather the "global south" in its entirety. The readings for the class were mostly from European writers or writers of color that did not have a background in African Studies (I do not recall any being African). This through me for a loop and made me question the integrity of the class at least under the department of African Studies. Even though the class did not meet my expectations; I still learned a lot from the class and it is worth the look for anyone interested in global initiatives. Now in regards to the IFSA-side of things, IFSA had two major excursions for the duration of our semester abroad. The first was a trip to the highlands. This was a fun and beautiful trip. We travelled the highlands for a weekend stopped at a sheep farm, a whiskey distillery, went to Fort George, the site of the battle of Culloden, saw Loch ness (sadly not the monster, Nessie!), and enjoyed a stay in Inverness. The scenery was beautiful and I had a great time. The other excursion was a weekend homestay. We were split into groups and sent all over Scotland and Northern England. My group went to a small village named Shap in Northern England. We got to go to a festival, and my home family was amazing and welcoming. As an African American, I was a little afraid of how I would be received but after 5 minutes that fear was tossed out the window. Overall, my experience in Scotland was a 9/10. The people were lovely, IFSA's two major excursions were fun and offered a little more insight into Scotland. The only improvements I would suggest is having a get together for the students in Edinburgh and Glasgow in Glasgow and another in Edinburgh so that we can make more connections, and having students pick the mini-excursions so that they are more likeable. IFSA does a great job as well with checking on the well-being of their students as we are spread throughout the city.

I could not have had a better experience than my time in Edinburgh during the Fall semester of 2019. Between attending a prestigious university in one of the most beautiful cities I've ever been to and making many incredible friends, I was exactly where I needed to be. I underwent a lot of personal growth, and through this cross-cultural immersion I know I became more of a global citizen. During my time in Edinburgh, I was very grateful to have a support system like IFSA-Butler. Upon arrival, I felt welcomed and more comfortable knowing I would be far from alone my first few days adjusting. Having an IFSA orientation allowed me to meet some people in the same position as me and then be more open to befriending people unlike me following the orientation. By the time I moved into my flat, I felt refreshed and ready for the semester! I found that my best friends were both from IFSA and within my flat, from England and Spain! Additionally, there were more events hosted by IFSA throughout the semester that kept us supported and tied to each other. I had the opportunity to travel and explore Edinburgh, and I would highly recommend studying abroad as it can truly change your life. It changed mine for the better!

I spent a semester at University of Edinburgh through IFSA Scotland's program. The University of Edinburgh is a prestigious school, known for an incredible history of important philosophers, writers, historians, etc. Naturally, as a Political Science student, I was very interested in their program. I applied through IFSA, and they were incredibly accommodating and stayed in constant touch to answer any questions I had about life in Scotland, applying to the program, paper work, housing, etc. Throughout the entire application process, the IFSA staff were incredibly helpful, I never felt afraid to contact them with a question, no matter how small. Once I arrived in Scotland, I was greeted at the airport by the IFSA Scotland team, who held an extensive 3-4 day orientation, in which they answered a variety of questions and gave important advice about living in Edinburgh and attending university. The team guided us through every adjustment, from getting a UK SIM card to picking classes and finalizing course schedules. They also provided important historical and cultural background, which I found helped me immerse myself in Scottish culture. Throughout the semester, IFSA also organized different programming and events, which expanded our knowledge and appreciation for the local culture. The IFSA staff also periodically checked in with us to make sure that we were adjusting to the different academic and culture challenges of studying abroad. IFSA did a great job with helping students adjust overall.The University of Edinburgh is a great school for students who are seeking to study abroad because it both maintains a strong Scottish legacy and culture, while also being incredibly welcoming to international students and accommodating. The University is a hub for international students from all over, all with unique cultures that come together to make the university feel incredibly unique, and unlike anywhere I have ever been. It is truly a wonderful, welcoming environment, and I am so happy that I studied abroad there.

Before going abroad I was SO nervous about leaving home, my friends and family, normal life... etc. I am eternally grateful that I went because I made such amazing memories and friends that will last me a lifetime. I felt so comfortable in my program, with the people I met, and the advisors I had helping me along the way. It was an experience that I wish everyone could have.

My time in Edinburgh was incredible. IFSA was supportive, knowledgeable, and the trips they planned were fantastic. My life changed after I studied in Scotland and a lot of it is thanks to the IFSA staff who helped me through it all.

After spending a day in Edinburgh a few years ago, I knew I wanted to return when I studied abroad. When the time came, I had to decide whether to do that with a program or not. In the end, I chose to go with the IFSA program and thank goodness I did! Pre-arrival newsletters and then orientation itself made it very easy to adjust expectations for the coming semester and adapt to the new lifestyle and culture when I arrived. Orientation also allowed me to make friends before moving into my flat and beginning classes. Coming from a small college, navigating the bureaucracy of a large school (University of Edinburgh has as many visiting students as my school has total) was made extremely simple by having IFSA there to help. It received a lot of stress and enabled me to focus on studying and exploring this gorgeous country. While at University of Edinburgh, I took Introduction to Gaelic Language and Culture; International Development, Aid, and Humanitarianism; and Russian Sociolinguistics and Language Policy. The last one was a higher level course that I had to switch into, which was easy to do with IFSA's help. These courses were similar to classes in the States, but had a lighter workload and fewer hours in the classroom. Although the workload was lighter, it is important to not get complacent or you will have troubles during exam time. Exams are the same as in the States, but perhaps in a slightly different setting as there will multiple courses sitting their exams in the same room simultaneously. I travelled around Cairngorm National Park, Oban, and the Isle of Skye. I also went on the IFSA Highlands trip, which was a full weekend trip to Fort George, Culloden, Glencoe, and a distillery. This provided context for some of the history I had been learning in class. Overall, this was an amazing experience only enriched by going through it with IFSA.

I would not trade my experience in Edinburgh for the whole world. I truly believe I had some of the best few months of my life while I was there and I would return in a second if given the opportunity. The housing offered was great, I lived with seven other girls in a flat with a shared kitchen and living space but we each had our own bathroom and bedroom. The location was a bit far from campus but I was able to experience taking a bus everyday which I actually came to really enjoy (just some extra time to find new music)! The flat was also close to many great sites. There is so much to do in Edinburgh that it is practically impossible to be bored. Princes Street, Georges Street, and the Royal Mile offer so many shopping opportunities and cafe spots. You can also be active by visiting Arthur's Seat or walking to Calton Hill and experiencing the beautiful views of Edinburgh. The site director for the semester in Edinburgh is so lovely and kind and will make you feel at home immediately. I made some of the best friends as well and will cherish my time in this amazing place with them for years to come.

I absolutely loved my experience studying abroad at the University of Edinburgh through IFSA. This was my first experience leaving the U.S., so I was very nervous and did not know what to expect for the next four months. However, I ended up transitioning fairly easily and having an overall wonderful experience. The IFSA staff gave a thorough yet efficient 3 day orientation before we moved into our student accommodation. Although I had a lot of independence for the rest of the time in Scotland, the IFSA staff regularly checked in on me and made me feel very supported. I also attended some IFSA planned events, including a weekend trip to the Scottish Highlands that was amazing! My experience at the University of Edinburgh was also very positive. I liked all my classes and enjoyed getting to feel like a normal full time student at the university. I lived in a nice flat near campus with 4 non American full time students. This experience along with my classes and the dance society I joined allowed me to be immersed in university life and in the city of Edinburgh itself. My favorite part about studying abroad was getting to live in Scotland and in Edinburgh. The country and specifically Edinburgh is such a magical place that I fell in love with. I did not know where I wanted to study abroad at first, but now after going to Edinburgh I can't imagine going anywhere else. The majestic buildings, the friendly people, and the beautiful scenery make Edinburgh a very special place.

Studying abroad at the University of Edinburgh was by far the best decision I've made in my time at university. Before going, I honestly had little interest in Scotland, and I didn't think there would be much for me to do while I was there. However, upon arriving, I was immediately greeted by amazing people, beautiful culture and history, and a whirlwind of exciting things to see and do. The best part for me was the people. Students from all across the globe came to study at UoE, ranging from Singapore, to New Zealand, to France. Getting to interact with these people gave me a glimpse of their social habits and cultures, and only spurred my interest in other countries and cultures more. Scotland as a country has so much to offer - great food and social life, beautiful scenery, fantastic photo spots (a photographer's dream really). Travelling within and outside of Scotland opens up a world of possibilities that are always waiting to be explored.

My experience studying abroad in the Fall of 2017 was incredible! I had a hard time picking a program and location because of all the options that were available. Once I had it narrowed down to the UK, the picture of the University of Edinburgh is what eventually made my decision. It was absolutely dreamlike! The API staff was with me all along the way. From after I submitted my first application to getting reacclimated to the States when I returned home, I always had a contact within the program that I could ask questions and get answers from. The best part with API was all of our Cultural Excursions. We had four excursions to different prominent cities in Scotland that gave us a good look at the different cultures within Scotland from the Scottish Highlands to the largest city, Glasgow. We also had culture events throughout the semester that gave us many authentic Scottish experiences. We went to things like a rugby game, we had afternoon tea, and went on a scotch whiskey tour. These events happened almost every week and showed me new things that I wouldn't have thought to see or do without the group. In Scotland, there was an onsite program director that led us in these excursions. She was an American who had moved to Scotland to get married. Alexis had a unique perspective as she had been in our shoes before. She had studied as a grad student at the University of Edinburgh so she also had good advice for schooling and how to navigate that. I got to see first hand how involved she could be in case of extreme circumstances. API gave us the option of how involved they needed to be. If we needed something, they were there. If we didn't, we could be as independent as we wanted to be. There was initial training online to do before we left and then there was helpful country-specific training once we got there with information like where to buy toiletries and groceries. There was information on language differences, even though they speak English there are certain words that mean different things in Scotland versus over here in America. Studying abroad was the experience of a lifetime. I would highly recommend it to anyone and everyone, there are so many programs out there that everyone should be able to find one that they can make work. It broadens your horizons and teaches you life lessons that can only be learned through experiencing them. I have gained confidence and the ability to articulate my Study Abroad experience while in Scotland and since I've been back!

I studied abroad for a semester with IFSA at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. Words cannot express how amazing of an experience it was! IFSA was always extremely organized and there to help whether it was something logistical such as sending out pre-arrival toolkits/instructions, helping us get situated and move into our flats, all the way to taking us on incredible weekend trips throughout Scotland. Studying in Edinburgh with IFSA is one of the best decisions I've ever made - truly a once in a lifetime experience that I'd do again in a heartbeat!