My First Week in Edinburgh: A New Adventure Begins

– Muthukrishnan

After months of preparation and anticipation, I’ve finally arrived in Edinburgh—a city that I’ve dreamed of visiting for so long! From the moment I stepped off the plane, the cool breeze and the sight of the rolling hills in the distance welcomed me to my new home for the semester. There’s something magical about this city; maybe it’s the centuries-old architecture, the stone streets, or the ever-changing weather that gives Edinburgh its unique charm.

Arrival and First Impressions

My journey to Edinburgh was a mix of excitement and nerves. The flight was smooth, but the real adventure began as soon as I stepped outside the airport. The first thing that struck me was how different everything looked from Singapore—the towering historic buildings with a backdrop of green hills were a far cry from the modern city skyline I’m used to. It was surreal to think that I was finally here.

Settling In

I’m staying in student accommodation close to the university, and the view from my window is already making me fall in love with the city. Settling in, however, was a bit of an adventure on its own. The first challenge was figuring out where to buy the essentials—groceries, toiletries, even an adapter! But after a few Google searches and a couple of walks around the neighbourhood, I found a great Asian local market that I know I’ll be visiting often.

The weather, on the other hand, has been an adjustment. I knew it would be chilly, but the Scottish breeze is something else! I’ve quickly learned the art of layering and always carrying an umbrella.

Exploring the University of Edinburgh

On my first visit to the University of Edinburgh, I was completely amazed. The campus is a beautiful blend of history and modernity. Old College, with its grand architecture, made me feel like I’d stepped back in time, while the modern buildings remind me that this is a place of innovation and learning. The library is massive with monitors to study, and I can already picture myself spending many afternoons there.

Orientation was a whirlwind of meeting new people, getting to know the layout of the campus, and learning about the resources available to us as visiting students. The university staff were incredibly welcoming, which helped ease my initial nerves.

Reflections on the First Week

My first week in Edinburgh has been nothing short of amazing. While there have been moments of homesickness and the occasional challenge of adjusting to a new environment, I’m quickly learning to embrace the differences. There’s so much to explore, and I’m already building friendships with other international students. We’ve bonded over our shared experiences of being new in this beautiful city and our excitement for what’s to come.

I’m looking forward to discovering more hidden gems in Edinburgh, getting into the rhythm of my classes, and making the most of this incredible opportunity. Stay tuned for more stories as I continue my journey here in Scotland!