One of the most exciting factors when studying abroad is getting to immerse oneself in the culture of the host country. Although on the surface level, Scotland and the US seem fairly similar (western, English speaking, etc.), there are in fact a wide number of niche cultural experiences that I have been able to take part of while living here. It has been incredible to experience Scotland from the perspective of someone who is living in the country, rather than just passing through like one might while on vacation. Through a number of cultural events and activities, I have been able to have a true Scottish Experience.
The first main cultural event I attended was Robert Burns Night, which is held annually on the 25th of January to celebrate the famous Scottish Poet Robert Burns. The night is traditionally celebrated with a supper of traditional Scottish foods, Scottish dancing, readings from Burns’ work, and whiskey. Luckily for me, the University of Stirling put on an event for this night on campus, where I was able to try the meal of haggis, neeps, and tatties (sheep stomach, turnips, and mashed potatoes), witness some Scottish dancing and hear excerpts from student’s favorite poems. This was a great start to seeing Scottish culture since it happened soon after I arrived in the country.
Another great way I’ve learned more about Scottish culture and history while studying here has been through the William Wallace Monument – a towering stone structure that can be seen from anywhere in town. Although many know William Wallace from Braveheart, which the people here dislike for its wide historical inaccuracy, the town of Stirling takes a special liking to him since his famous battle of Stirling bridge happened just outside of town. I was able to climb up through the Wallace Monument, learn about his story and the subjection of Scotland to England’s rule, design a coat of arms, and get some pretty incredible views of my temporary home. Every time I go outside here I can see the tower and am reminded of the amazing history of the incredible place I am in.
Other ways I have experienced Scottish culture have been more modern – enjoying the same activities that modern Scots do. For example, I have gone on many hikes in the surrounding hills, the most notable being the tall “Dumyat” that protrudes from just behind campus. Although not a popular past time everywhere, hiking means a lot to the people here since it enables the enjoyment and viewing of the incredible countryside, so my hikes have taken me as far as the widely acclaimed Isle of Skye. Continuing with travel, I have also been to some of the most famous places in Scotland. Thanks to Stirling’s central location, I’ve taken trains to the incredible granite city of Aberdeen; Falkirk, the home of the Kelpies; Edinburgh, Scotland’s beautiful capital; and Fort Augustus, the city most associated with the Loch Ness monster. I truly feel like I have seen some of the best that Scotland has to offer and witnessed some incredible Scottish cultural icons while doing so.
Since this is my final blog post, I will conclude by saying that studying abroad has been the most incredible few months of my life, and I would highly recommend it to anybody considering spending a semester away from home.
