Edinburgh- a Medieval Fairytale Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I really enjoyed my time in Edinburgh!! The city is gorgeous, and very intimate. The atmosphere on campus is great, and everyone is very welcoming and social. The classes were taught by very inspiring and personable professors, and there was not an overwhelming amount of course work.

On-site administration of your program

Because I did a direct exchange, I felt like I did everything completely on my own. I did not get any help while I was there from Barnard, my home institution. I even emailed the Study Abroad Office concerning an important matter for my Spring Program Filing, and they never responded. I found that very discouraging and unprofessional, and did not ask them for any advice or help again.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I chose to find my own housing through airbnb. Edinburgh Uni has a links to multiple sites online that help students find their own accommodation. If you do not want to live in self-catered dorms, I would highly recommend searching as far ahead of time as you can! I found and sent in a deposit for my flat 5 months ahead of time. But it was great to have my own place right across from campus (and I was living with my boyfriend). Most 3rd year students live off campus anyways.

I have Celiac Disease, so I have to eat gluten free. I shopped at Tesco, Sainsburys, and Asda. I cooked for myself most of the time. Teviot (the student union that is comprised of 7 different student bars) has many wonderful and affordable gluten free options as well! Check out the library bar for the best vibe and food. Other food recommendations in Edinburgh include Urban Angle near Queen Street, Caravan right by the old medical school, and Tupiniquim by the entrance of the Meadows!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I LOVED learning about the scottish culture. They are all extremely friendly people, who love to chat. I would HIGHLY recommend joining as many societies on campus as you can. That is how you will make friends. I joined the literature society and the wine society. I also got selected to be on the Blind Tasting Team in the Wine Society, and it was a totally life changing experience. Now I am back in New York and pursuing a career in the Wine Industry because of my experience in Edinburgh. So step out of your comfort zone and try new things!

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I never once had to visit a health care during my semester abroad. Actually, it was scary knowing that I had no idea where to go if something did happen. Not sure!

Never felt unsafe in Edinburgh! All of the bars close at 1pm, and clubs at 3pm. So there is never a reason to be out very late anyways. But I will say that I heard some pretty scary stories about the Meadows at night… sexual assault, harassment, and robbery. So do not opt to take a walk through the meadows when the sun goes down!

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Not too pricy!

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• Apartment

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• Other

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• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

• People
• Pubs/Bars/Going out
• Blind Tasting Team

• Nothing!

The Outright Urbanite