My time in Scotland was split between the University of Edinburgh and the University of St Andrews. Over the two months, I completed four courses taught by a mix of JMU and Scottish professors, covering Scottish literature, sociology, geology, and macroeconomics. Each class, despite being from entirely different disciplines, wove in themes of British identity and, more specifically, the layered and often complicated identity of the Scottish people, culture, and economy. It was fascinating to see the same idea echoed through everything from geologic landscapes to national literature to economic debates.

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Our learning extended outside the classroom as well, with excursions throughout Scotland that deepened our understanding of both the country’s history and its modern social landscape. Walking through Edinburgh’s literary sites, exploring the coastlines shaped by ancient geological events, and engaging with local communities offered context that tied directly back to our coursework.

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During weekends, I was also able to travel across the UK, visiting places like the Highlands, London, and small towns throughout Fife. These experiences made the program not only academically enriching but also personally meaningful, leaving the program with some of my most cherished memories.