Transitioning to a New Chapter of University
The Unfamiliarity of Exchange
In early September I took two flights, three buses, and did a bit of walking to arrive in the beautiful city of Edinburgh to begin my exchange semester! As I unpacked my bags in a new room, it was hard to discern the excitement from nerves, all mixed in with the jet-lag I was feeling – I had just arrived at my new home for the next three months. Not only that, I was about to make the transition from college town to city life and meet new people along the way, all while taking classes at a new university.
Although starting a semester abroad presents you with a sea of unfamiliarity, it also brings new opportunities and a new way of daily life. After taking the first weeks to find my footing, I now want you to step into my shoes for a day, following along a typical day for an exchange student at the University of Edinburgh!
A Typical Tuesday
It’s time to pull back the curtains of a new day, starting with breakfast in my flat. I live in university housing near King’s Campus Buildings for the College of Science and Engineering, very conveniently located to get to my first class of the day, a 9:00am biology lecture for The Green Planet. While I study biology at my home university, I also have the chance to take some elective courses while I’m here! This led me to my next class, Celtic Civilization at 12:00pm on George Square campus. I was worried about making it between my two classes, but the campus shuttle between the two campuses has been very convenient and runs every 20 minutes during the middle of the day. I only had two lectures this day, so I decided to meet up with a friend and grab lunch near campus. We tried a new spot, Union of Genius, and we had some delicious chili which I HIGHLY recommend trying!
After a nice lunch break, I settled into the main library to do a bit of work for my classes, reviewing content from my biology lecture and doing some reading for Celtic Civilization. I also really love how close the library is to the Meadows, as it’s the perfect spot to catch up with friends, read a book, or enjoy a nice run. On this day, I took a quick study break to sit in the sun and see the changing colors of the leaves.
I caught the bus back to my flat, where I cooked some pasta with my flat mates for dinner. I live in a 10-person flat (I know it’s a lot), and we are a mix of exchange and full-time students. It’s been great having such a full house, as there is always someone to chat with over dinner or watch a show with. Living with ten people also means there is always someone to go to a pub quiz with! A few of us headed over to our favorite pub for our weekly trivia night, putting our general knowledge to the test. While we only got sixth place, we had a great time as always.
Finding Routine in a New Place
Finding my daily routine throughout the weeks has helped me feel more at home and comfortable in the city. While this one day is only a glimpse into my experience on exchange here in Edinburgh, it shows the daily routine that I have come to love! As the weeks go on, Edinburgh has felt more like a second home to me, and I’m excited to continue exploring what’s around the next corner.
– Katie
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