Make Local Exploring a Priority When You Study Abroad

As I prepared to study in Scotland, many people asked me where I planned to travel while I was in Europe. I was more excited to explore my host city, Edinburgh. I had never been to Scotland, and I was focused on seeing the sights within the city. After three months of living here, I have learned so much more about this city and its people.  

Tips for gaining cultural awareness and understanding 

Having never stepped foot on Scottish soil, I felt it important to gain a better understanding of the culture that I would be immersed in for the next several months.  

• Start with museums. The artifacts in the National Museum of Scotland allowed me to grasp a comprehension of Scottish history, while The Writers’ Museum allowed me to analyze my love of literature through the lens of three different Scottish-born authors.  
• Explore from different angles. From spending time in nature during an IFSA excursion atop Arthur’s Seat to witnessing how local government works in the Scottish Parliament, I learned about how life functions here by observing the local surroundings, actions, events, and behaviors.  
• Pursue your passions. I’ve always been passionate about reading and music, so I made sure to seek out those spaces in Edinburgh. Perusing the shelves of bookstores and the stacks of record stores has introduced new relationships with written and musical art forms and led me to new refuges. 

Exploring culture sparks personal discovery, too

My personal growth goes hand-in-hand with my newfound awareness of Scottish culture and lifestyles. Living outside of the bubble of Vanderbilt’s campus has taught me a lot about independence. My time exploring a new city on my own has significantly changed me, my thought processes, and my understanding of the world around me.  

While I expect this journey to continue into my senior year, I believe many of the changes brought on by the hidden wonders in Edinburgh’s corners to stick.  

As I look back on a semester full of discovery, uniqueness, and excitement, I feel quite fond about all the time I chose to spend in Edinburgh. Because of my decision to see the world right at my fingertips, I have gained awareness of those around me, including myself. Approaching the end of such a life-changing experience is difficult, but I can confidently say that the places I’ve visited, the people I’ve met, and the culture I encountered will be with me forever. 

Alex B. | Vanderbilt University | University of Edinburgh, Scotland | Spring 2026