Upon arriving to Scotland, I was not sure what to expect. It was cold, wet, and overall dreary. I remember getting on the bus and heading to the SRUC Oatridge Campus, where we had no idea what to expect and we were quite silent. However, the bright and shining Louise was and still is the kindest and most polite person I ever met and she helped me feel right at home.
As the weeks progressed, I came to realize that the students are incredibly willing to help you with anything you need, whether its academically related or not. It all seemed like such a large family. Another week in and I could not feel any more at home. Many students offered to take us to the local restaurants and pubs and immerse ourselves in their culture. Being a shy student from the US, I was humbled by this experience. Never have I seen such acts of kindness and friendship before.
Moving along to the academic side of the program, the staff are incredibly knowledgeable about their subject material. They understand how to communicate the essential information to the students effectively and efficiently. It was truly and enlightening experience and I am glad to bring home exciting new information.
I have been blessed with this experience and opportunity, and I hope to return as soon as possible. The beauty of both the rolling fields and hills did not even compare with the inside beauty of the people.
What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
I had never drank before in the US since our age limit is 21. It was incredibly interesting, and scary, to go try an alcoholic beverage at 20. Unlike many US students, I practiced more of an abstinence approach when it came to the consumption of alcohol. However, the Scottish students made the drinks enjoyable, and showed me many of the Scottish drinks, to which I fancied.