UQ Program: Bachelor of Laws
Edinburgh University is a fantastic place to go for an exchange year, full of heaps of character and the people you meet from uni and other eccentric characters around the city will make you feel at home in no time. From the historic old town, with stories of ghosts, murderers and a royal mile of pubs to drink Scotch Whiskey to the new town (new being 17th century) full of comedy clubs and pubs, the only problem is deciding what to do.
I love skiing or snowboarding, so I joined the Edinburgh University Snow Sports Club and went on the uni trip to Les Arcs in France. It was so brilliant to be on a side of the world where the alps are just a stones throw (well actually, a 27hr bus ride) away! As well, the Scottish highlands are just a couple hours away and were fantastic to go up for a slide around on snow for the day or weekend. Something that you definitely cannot do for a weekend escape from Brisbane!
But apart from all that, there was still at the end of the day essays and exams to do. I am doing my Bachelor of Laws and just have 6 months to go after completing all my electives overseas. Being a highly research based university, with many lecturers at the forefront of their fields and small 20 student classes, it’s a unique and personal style of learning (but which doesn’t allow for too much slacking off!!) Law in Edinburgh has a real small close-knit feel though and everyone is really helpful and supportive in getting you through the year.
Now for the most important things to do in Edinburgh. Visit the Brass Monkey right near the Old College to relax with a pint and watch the free daily movie from 3 o’clock, while sprawling out on their bed, which takes up a whole room. Go to Black Medicine, which is just next-door and serves the best coffee and in town without a doubt. Just wandering the streets and exploring all the different places to go is the best way to fall in love with the city and the friendly Scottish nature. The only problem is that a year is not long enough to go everywhere, meet everyone and see everything!