Stirling, Scotland: From Big Island to the Highlands - My Study Abroad Story
University of Stirling, Scotland Campus
What struck me on arrival in Scotland was the deep shades of green across her landscape. I remember arriving on a rainy, grey day. Driving in the back seat of the Uber to the University of Stirling, I watched large black, winged birds circling what looked like a construction site. Beyond them, massive rolling green hills cascaded and descended into the horizon. I’m grateful to have called Hawaiʻi home for the past seven years, and living here, I thought I knew green- but Scotland's greens glowed differently: vibrant shades of deep emerald and hunter, hues I'd never seen in such abundance.
The site of the Battle of Stirling Bridge.
Scotland was never a destination on my radar. When I dreamed of traveling, I'd picture a road trip through the French countryside, exploring the hilly, colorful streets of Portugal, or soaking in the sun on the warm coasts of the Caribbean —places where I imagined I would feel welcome as an African American woman traveling solo. By “welcome,” I mean less likely to stand out or to feel “othered.” So, imagine my surprise when I found myself drawn to a creative writing summer course in Scotland, while reviewing the International Summer Programs offered by the University of Hawaiʻi, Hilo’s Center for Global Exchange and Education.
Enjoying the rose covered archway at the Culross Palace Gardens.
During my five-week stay at the University of Stirling, I found a large multicultural community and a vibrant learning atmosphere. The University housed a state-of-the-art library, a newly renovated gym facility, and there was even a movie theater, full bar, and restaurant located on the campus’s lower level. Between my creative writing class and walks by the lake, we went on numerous historical excursions. I participated in day trips with our international cohort of 80 students to major cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow. I signed up for an optional three-day bus tour of the Highlands with picturesque views straight out of the Harry Potter movie franchise. Other times, I choose overnight solo excursions where I could let my interests and intuition guide me. On one solo voyage, I visited the National Galleries of Scotland during the day, and that evening, an abandoned paper factory which was temporarily opened to the public and filled with large, avant-garde installations from local artists. I was introduced to authors like Edna O’ Brien and Toni Morrison. I liked O’Brien’s and Morrison’s work so much that I incorporated themes from their books—those on race, identity, female agency, and sexuality—into my final course assignment. My few weeks in Scotland flew by, and I had a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I will cherish for years to come.
My time in Scotland allowed me to acquire new skills and learn valuable lessons about self-confidence, growth, and resilience. Four lessons stand out…
1. Say yes to going alone🧚🏾♀️
When I applied to the summer program, I had never been to Scotland, and I didn’t know anyone in the program. I met fantastic people in the international student cohort and loved exploring with them. Yet, many of my favorite memories came from wandering off the beaten path alone. I found ways to embrace being in community, while also giving myself space to follow my interests and develop the confidence that comes with exploring new places alone. I feel as if those moments helped me to practice confidently occupying space and seeking out new and novel experiences with folks I may not have interacted with if I had traveled with others and stayed in the comfort of the group.
Traveling with friends can be wonderful, but I didn’t let the absence of a companion stop me from saying yes to an adventure.
2. Do your research 📝
I learned that summers in Scotland bring nearly 18 hours of daylight, and the weather can shift from hot and sunny to cold and rainy in a matter of minutes. Those, and other small bits of information, helped immensely as I packed and prepared for my trip.
Doing research also made my food experiences richer. One of my favorite parts of traveling is trying new cuisine (in 2023, I wrote about the 16 Essential Restaurants in Hilo, Hawaiʻi for Eater Magazine). In Scotland, I carried that passion with me as I sampled a modern twist on traditional haggis, had my first Sunday roast and sticky toffee pudding, and found five-star meals at local pubs like “The Westy” in Bridge of Allen.
Dinner at Westerton Arms “The Westy” in Bridge of Allen.
Slow Cooked Shin Of Beef with dauphinoise potatoes, roasted carrots, carrot puree, wilted greens, crispy onions, red wine jus
3. Grow your network 👯♀️
Networking during the International Summer Program often happened through experiences on and around campus. I met a great group of girls that I joined for day trips and team-building events, including completing my first Escape Room at the Stirling Old Town Jail. I’ve stayed in touch with them and others through social media, and I’ve also maintained contact with my professors and advisors. Those connections reminded me that networking doesn’t have to feel forced, and can be as simple as being open to the people around you.
We Escaped!
My first ever Escape Room, completed successfully at the Stirling Old Town Jail.
3. Dive into your studies 📚
I was introduced to Scottish authors like Edna O’Brien and Janice Galloway through an optional reading list in my creative writing class. A friend in a different program recommended Toni Morrison’s debut novel, Sula, which I devoured over a weekend and later wove into my final assignment. Taking advantage of both required and optional opportunities and paying attention to casual recommendations helped deepen my learning experience.
If you are a student who dreams of travel, or an adult considering a return to higher education, I hope this inspires you to explore the global exchange offices at your university.
View outside of Stirling Castle
Studying abroad and traveling in general continue to awaken my global curiosity. In the uncomfortable stretch that comes with stepping outside what's familiar, I can see myself growing and viewing the world through a more global lens: one where I can contemplate the similarities and unique challenges across continents. I also left with a new appreciation for Scotland’s culture and history; this showed me that intentional international travel can help us develop curiosity for others, which builds empathy and understanding. If you’re passionate about learning and discovery, I hope this inspires you to seek out opportunities to travel abroad. And who knows? You may end up falling in love with an unexpected destination.
