Stirling, Scotland: Past Review
By Madalyn W (Environmental, soil, and water science, University of Arkansas - Fayetteville) for
Arcadia: Stirling - University of Stirling
Yes!! It taught me that I have a lot to learn about living in another country and that I need to be a better spender. It taught me that you can find a friend in the most unlikely of people- every culture is fascinating and complex. I'm going to move back to Stirling after I graduate because I fell in love with wonderful man who lives there-- I'd say it changed my plans quite a bit! :)
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 1 month - 6 months |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
I thought that the structure was a bit laid back. It was less stressful than in the States, but I almost found myself with too much time on my hands and then proceeded to procrastinate (my fault I know...). It was a lot of independent study and not much class time. I feel like I learned less because I was in class less, but I should have taken more initiative probably. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
Hamish and Anna were amazing support in Stirling. I did not need them for a whole lot, but I know they would have been there every step if I had. They answered questions quickly and efficiently and had lots of good advice. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
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| * Food: |
There is a way to get local produce through a group on campus called People and Planet and you get like 5 kilos of veg for 5 pounds!! It's a good deal. There are several super markets in Stirling. Tesco is always packed, so try Sainsbury's for a more leisurely experience. :) Go eat at Brea in town and you must go to the Junk Rooms for dinner or a drink because the food is amazing and the people are fantastic- It's on Friar's street. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
Went to Aberdeen to discuss and experience the topics in renewable energy. We got to visit Mackie's dairy farm (where the best ice cream in Scotland comes from) and stand inside of one of their huge wind turbines. It was amazing! |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Pretty darn safe. Don't be an idiot. Don't go out at night alone for long periods of time. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
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| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | Too much! Probably around 100 pounds a week, a lot more if I was traveling. |
| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | The exchange rate is killer and alcohol, depending on your preferences, can clean you out. Be careful with nightlife expenses! |
Language
| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | None |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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A Look Back
| * What did you like most about the program? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | You have to dig a little to find the interesting places in Stirling. This is a good program for an independent learner and a people person! |
