In Scotland, the locals do not simply utter ‘cheers’ in times of celebration, but rather, a saying that means “good health to you”: Slàinte Mhath! In my time abroad, I’ve found that the Gaelic tongue is not one that is frequently uttered, but one that is still fondly preserved within Scottish culture. Printed on railway signs, bottles of Irn-Bru, (a Scottish born and brewed ‘fizzy juice’!), and historic plaques, it seems that the Gaelic language is still alive and well within a modern Scotland. While the antiquated saying may be a blast from the past, I’m learning that certain phrases are still frequently shouted during festivities and friendly gatherings! In an effort to better acclimate the international students, my host university, The University of Stirling, put on a highland celebration entitled “Slàinte Mhath Scotland – A Celebration of Scottish Culture”. My ticket to (pronounced Slanj-a-va) included a meal voucher for one traditional Scottish dinner and a drink voucher as well. The dinner was a truly Scottish feast of haggis, neeps, and tatties! Tatties is a fun slang word for mashed potatoes, neeps are vibrant orange mashed turnips, and haggis is, well, minced sheep’s stomach. Delicious?
Absolutely, if you ask the locals. As for me, I far preferred the tatties over the haggis. Before the festival, on January 25th, the whole country celebrated Burn’s Night, which is the national holiday dedicated to the Bard of Scotland – Robert Burns. Burn’s Night was the first time I’d tried haggis, as the school’s most popular cafeteria served bits of haggis on pizza that evening! It was a nice transition into the world of minced sheep, but I’m still not convinced on either the taste or texture. Anyway, at Slàinte Mhath, I did far more than simply eat! I, along with 70 other international students, was treated to a great show of Scottish fare! We watched students perform a traditional Highland Dance while donning tartan gowns and jigging to lively bagpipes. Additionally, we were read select Robert Burns poems from the student body president, and finally, we toasted to the new school year with shots of Irn-Bru! Listening to the highland band, watching the zealous performances, and partaking in the traditional meal helped me feel truly Scottish for the night! Being in Scotland has been such a riveting and culturally immersive experience. Each township is chockful of a rich history and the cobbles I stroll help me feel like I’m walking with the past, not on it. Outside of the University, I’ve been fortunate enough to see many other Scottish sights! From the Kelpies of Falkirk to the Wallace Monument and Old Stirling Bridge, I am not just looking at Scotland from afar, but rather, experiencing the beautiful country at a truly intimate level. And there is still so much more to explore! Here’s to the future, and to the good health of all! Slàinte Mhath!