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[umichenginabroad]

Week 4: Exploring Edinburgh and Beyond with Family

This past week has been filled with excitement as I had the pleasure of hosting my parents in Edinburgh. Welcoming them to my familiar surroundings was a joyous occasion, allowing me to share the charm and beauty of this historic city that I now call home.

We kicked off their visit by embarking on a leisurely stroll around the town, revisiting the iconic landmarks that have become so familiar to me. From the majestic Edinburgh Castle perched atop Castle Rock to the vibrant and picturesque Victoria Street, every corner we turned held a story to tell. Of course, no tour of Edinburgh would be complete without a visit to the grand Palace of Holyrood, where we marveled at its regal splendor.

One thing my parents quickly learned about Edinburgh – and Scotland as a whole – is the unpredictable weather. Despite my dad's optimism about clear and sunny days, we found ourselves caught in a few unexpected rain showers. Yet, far from dampening our spirits, these rainstorms added to the allure of our adventure, reminding us that resilience and adaptability are key traits when exploring this beautiful country.

Venturing beyond Edinburgh, we embarked on a day trip to Stirling Castle, a place rich in history and significance. It was my second time exploring outside the bounds of Edinburgh, and I couldn't have asked for a more memorable experience. Walking in the footsteps of Mary Queen of Scots, whose birth and upbringing were intertwined with this fortress, filled me with a sense of awe and wonder. Despite the relentless rain and winds, we were transported back in time, immersed in the ambiance of centuries past. The history of Stirling Castle is as captivating as it is complex, and we spent hours delving into its storied past. From royal intrigue to tales of conquest and rebellion, every stone seemed to whisper secrets of bygone eras.

As the week drew to a close, I found myself grateful for the opportunity to share my love for Edinburgh and Scotland with my parents. Despite the occasional downpour, our adventures were filled with laughter, discovery, and cherished moments that will be fondly remembered for years to come.

And of course, here are the photos:

Talk to you guys soon!!

[umichenginabroad]

Week 2: Housing and More in Edinburgh!

Greetings once again from the enchanting landscapes of Scotland! As the sun continues to grace us with its warm embrace in Edinburgh, this week has been a blend of exploration, camaraderie, and settling into the rhythms of student life. Let me take you on a journey through our school induction, the unique housing provided by our program, and the nuances of daily life in this beautiful city.

Our week commenced with the school induction, an essential phase of our orientation process. It was a chance to familiarize ourselves with the sprawling campus, establish connections with fellow students, and fine-tune our schedules for the upcoming first week of classes. Amidst the excitement of new beginnings, our primary focus was on acclimating to our new living spaces.

Housing, a fundamental aspect of the study abroad experience, often poses challenges. Fortunately, our program takes a significant load off our shoulders by including housing costs in the overall tuition. This is a game-changer, easing the financial burden and allowing us to focus more on the academic and cultural aspects of our journey. Our home away from home is nestled within the confines of Orwell Terrace, one of the esteemed dormitories at Edinburgh Napier University.

The location is nothing short of ideal, with the residence within walking distance from the heart of the city. Orwell Terrace is more than just a building; it's a vibrant community housing students from all corners of the United States. The four-story structure is organized with two flats on each floor, and each flat accommodates eight rooms. What sets it apart is the thoughtful design, with each room being a single, featuring its private bathroom. It's more than just an accommodation; it's a curated experience of comfort and convenience.

Now, let's delve into the social dynamics of our living situation. While the assignment of flatmates was a random process, the outcome has been nothing short of extraordinary. All my fellow flatmates are from the United States, creating a diverse yet familiar atmosphere. The camaraderie has been instant, turning our flats not just into living spaces but into communities where shared experiences and stories unfold.

On the culinary front, our living situation allows us the flexibility of both home-cooked meals and exploration of the local food scene. Budgeting becomes a key consideration, striking a balance between savoring the delights of nearby restaurants and whipping up meals in our spacious kitchen. Speaking of which, our kitchen is equipped with practical amenities – a double fridge and freezer, along with two stove tops – making it a hub for culinary experiments and shared meals.

As we navigate the intricacies of daily life, our housing experience becomes an integral part of our study abroad journey. From the structured comfort of Orwell Terrace to the spontaneous connections with flatmates, Edinburgh is unfolding as not just a destination for education but a canvas for a transformative experience.

Stay tuned for more updates on our Scottish escapade as we immerse ourselves further into the rich tapestry of academia, culture, and community. The journey has just begun, and we invite you to join us in unraveling the mysteries and wonders of studying abroad in Scotland!

Enjoy some photos of the week!

Next stop: the first day of classes and the Highlands!

[umichenginabroad]

Week 1 in Edinburgh:

Greetings from Edinburgh!

I'm thrilled to share my adventures from the past three days since I arrived in this enchanting country. Let me walk you through my experiences so far.

On the first day, I finally got off the plane, collected my luggage, and an Edinburgh Napier University representative picked me up from the airport and gave me a warm welcome to Scotland. My first impressions were that it was definitely cold and I really REALLY needed to buy a scarf. Everyone was friendly, nice and so welcoming! 

During the taxi ride to my flat, which is located in a lovely residential area near Fountain Park and Haymarket, I received a mini-tour of the city, with highlights that included the rugby stadium and student hotspots (I’ve been keeping a list on my phone that I’ll share in a later blog post, so watch out for that!).  My flat is conveniently located near 2 bus stops and within a 20-minute walk from the main street and the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Its proximity to charming coffee shops and essential convenience stores has made settling in a breeze. 

After unpacking, I had a tasty lunch at The Clock Cafe with my site director, Jeanna, and fellow program participants. It was great to finally meet everyone in person! The day continued as I got  acquainted with my flatmates and explored the surrounding areas. Living with other American students has added a wonderful dimension to my experience and has allowed us to navigate the new environment and embrace Scottish culture together.

Days two and three were dedicated to city exploration. Alongside some newfound friends, I strolled through Edinburgh, soaking in the breathtaking sights and architecture. Edinburgh Castle, the Scots Monument, and the National Museum of Scotland were among the highlights. Securing bus passes became a priority, as both the bus and tram emerged as the most convenient modes of transportation around the city and the campus. Needless to say, I've easily surpassed 10,000 steps each day exploring this vibrant city!

Reflecting on these initial days, I've already formulated a list of goals for my time here. At the very top of my list is immersing myself in Edinburgh's rich history, appreciating the medieval architecture that tells the stories of the city's past. Whether it is taking one of the many bus tours, visiting the museums, or sitting in a cafe overlooking the city, I intend to achieve that goal. Additionally, I'm eager to connect with nature in the Highlands, exploring the majestic landscapes of Glencoe, the Isle of Skye, and Loch Ness. 

As a sneak peek, here are just a few snapshots from the multitude of sites that I've encountered and the people that I have met along the way:

Stay tuned for more updates as I continue to unravel the mysteries and beauty of Scotland. 

Talk to you soon!

Adriana Pizzillo