UQ Program: Bachelor of Arts
Edinburgh is a literature student’s dream city. From the moment you arrive at Waverley Station, gape confusedly at the odd Scott Monument and walk by countless tenements claiming to be the former home of ‘Rabbie’ Burns, you are immersed in the colourful history of this UNESCO City of Literature.
The University of Edinburgh is perhaps the core of the city. Students dominate the south of Edinburgh and almost every store offers year-round discounts to students. The university has an immense social network with over two hundred societies, two clubs and countless bars on campus. My favourite was Film Society which shows three films a week in various venues across town.
With all the social activities on offer, it can be hard to remember that a bit of study is required on your year abroad. Despite the advice of Edinburgh University staff during the application process, I took two third year/ honours English Literature courses in both semesters. This decision proved to be the right one as the third year courses are fantastic. Classes are capped at fifteen students and comprise of one informal seminar a week and a small student learning group which will see you studying Chaucer at Starbucks or, rather optimistically, in the pub. It can be difficult to arrange your timetable if you are taking courses across various years it is best to finalise this before you arrive in Edinburgh, particularly for third-year courses.
Keep a lookout for events hosted by the university. I heard a lecture given by the Director General for NATO and there are always interesting forums, guest lecturers and authors attending the university. On the celebrity front, Rupert Grint, Stephen Fry and Ian Rankin frequented the George Square library during my year abroad. There are also regular sightings of Dylan Moran wandering around the city.
And now for some insider tips:
1. The best coffee is at Peter’s Yard on the Quartermile next to George Square university campus (perfect for all the Humanities students) and Valvona & Crolla on Multrees Walk in New Town.
2. Hogmanay is overrated and all official events finish at 1am. For something more exciting, go to Europe.
3. Leave your winter clothes shopping for Edinburgh – it is much cheaper in the UK than in Australia.
4. Check Ryanair and Easyjet regularly for sale fares (I got a two pence flight to Brussels). Don’t forget train travel. Buy a Youth railcard for massive discounts. If you book far enough in advance you can get to London for £8 one-way.
5. For shipping all your newly acquired British goods home use Voovit (www.voovit.com). They are very cheap and cater specifically for international students.