Studying at the University of Edinburgh – What’s It Like?

Studying at the University of Edinburgh – What’s It Like?

Can you tell us more about your background?

Sophia: I studied the International Baccalaureate Programme at the United World College in Maastricht, the Netherlands, where I was exposed to many different cultures and backgrounds. During my studies I realised that I wanted to move abroad for university, so I decided to apply to the University of Edinburgh (UoE). I completed a MA(Hons) – the Scottish equivalent to an English bachelor’s degree – in Arabic and Politics and went on to study a MSc in Advanced Arabic at the UoE. After graduating, I started working at TopCourses as the Middle East and North Africa Consultant.

Why did you choose to study at the University of Edinburgh?

Sophia: I fell in love with the city of Edinburgh while visiting it during my October holidays in my last year of secondary school. It is a stunning place with fantastic architecture and breath-taking nature. No matter where you are in the city you are only a 15- or 20-minute walk away from mountains, lakes or forests.

I also chose to study there because of its excellent reputation in the United Kingdom and abroad. It is consistently ranked in the top 40 universities of the world and has excellent teaching facilities. Getting a degree from Edinburgh sets you apart from other graduates and helps you get into great postgraduate and PhD programmes. Additionally, your undergraduate degree at UoE will last four years instead of the usual three-year programmes in the rest of the country. Since I studied a language degree, I wanted that additional year of tuition because I felt it would further enhance my command of the Arabic language.

What type of students are University of Edinburgh looking for?

Sophia: First and foremost, they are looking for students with strong academic capabilities. Secondly, they look for students who are motivated in continuing their studies and self-development. You must be able to work and study independently outside of your lectures and tutorials.

What is the student life like at your university?

Sophia: I absolutely loved my student life at UoE. There was always something going on in one of its many social facilities. In my first year I stayed in catered accommodation (Pollock Halls), and it was the best year of my life. You get to know different students through your building, the cafeteria and its weekly parties. I highly recommend all students to stay in university accommodation for their first year.

Furthermore, the university campus has a very relaxed atmosphere. One of the best places to grab an affordable drink or bite to eat is Teviot. This multi-story historical building has several different bars, cafés and restaurants for you to choose from. I also really enjoyed going to Potterrow between my classes to relax or catch up on my homework. Each weekend the venue hosts amazing nights out called the “Big Cheese” and it’s an Edinburgh rite of passage to go at least once during your degree.

Lastly with more than 290 clubs and societies to choose from, UoE has something for everyone. These groups will help you develop your interests, meet like-minded people, indulge a hobby or simply socialise.

What advice would you give to students applying to British universities?

Sophia: I would advise students to think long and hard about what they are interested in and how they could use this interest in the future. Make sure you do well in your last two years of secondary school and take the time to engage in some extra-curricular activities which will help you with your university application. Moreover, ensure that you give yourself enough time to research universities and complete your application. The best applications are those that have been carefully worked on. However, my most important piece of advice is to enjoy this upcoming time of your life! University will be one of the most fun times of your life, so savour the moment and take every opportunity you can to learn about your new home and culture.

Submitting an excellent application and excelling in your interview improves your chances of getting admitted to a top university. That’s why TopCourses is here to help you get into your dream university. Book your free consultation today.