Scotland
My time in Scotland was both exciting and ephemeral. Every moment I was aware of the limited time I had and that prevailing thought danced endlessly with the timeless landscapes. This heightened awareness of time made me cherish every experience, every memory, and every friend I made.
One of the first, and most important things I learned, was to stay calm and confident in the choices I made. Initially, it was overwhelming. While systems in the world aren’t generally designed to be confusing or difficult, the sheer logistics of getting to Scotland, moving into new housing, and finding essentials was difficult because I was alone. I had to learn over time what items were available and where. It took time to become familiar with the area.
Even though I was away from friends and family, I did not have to face everything alone. I remember on my first day, I struggled to get my two pieces of luggage up four flights of stairs. The noise I was making caught the attention of another student.
He graciously offered to help me, and together we got everything up the stairs and me situated in my flat. It was a small interaction, but it really helped me to understand that I’m not entirely alone. People are willing to help and connect with you.
The second important thing I learned is that you’re not a different person when you go abroad. The independence of being abroad gives you the freedom to be more than you are. You have the opportunity to do anything, so it’s really important to focus on what you truly want to do. This was an intriguing discovery for me.
My advice is to pay attention in the experience and ride out the uncomfortable feelings. I highly encourage you to step outside yourself, your safe comfort zone, and make the effort to connect with others.
The academic environment abroad can be truly friendly, and friends can help you grow and learn. Study abroad is a beautiful and timeless thing to experience.
As I photographed more of Scotland, the activity became more than just an assignment or a creative outlet. It became the way in which I recorded my experience, both in a literal sense and in an emotional sense.
When I look back on my photos, I am transported to that exact moment when I pressed the shutter. I remember the magic I felt, the feelings of wonder and gratitude. They became a journal, insight into what I experienced and all the emotions that came with that experience.
Whether it is Scotland or anywhere else in the world—you have an incredible opportunity at your fingertips to study abroad with UCEAP. I learned more than I would have ever imagined – and you will too!
