Unicorns, whiskey and data science: My unforgettable semester abroad in Scotland

The University of Strathclyde appealed to me for two main reasons: its impressive courses tailored to boost my skills as a data scientist and its location in the heart of Scotland, a country I’d always wanted to explore. Known as "the place of useful learning," Strathclyde promised an academic experience steeped in self-discovery and skill-building. Plus, I was eager to explore Glasgow, the vibrant city by the bonnie banks of the River Clyde.

Fun Fact: Did you know that the unicorn is Scotland’s national animal? A mythical creature symbolizing purity, strength, and independence – the unicorn perfectly embodies Scotland’s proud and magical heritage. Discovering this unexpected and whimsical detail during my semester was such a delightful surprise and made me admire Scotland’s unique culture even more.

A typical day involved attending classes or working on assignments during the day, taking long walks in the evenings to discover nearby sights, and ending the day with a workout at the Strathclyde gym. I made it a habit to complete assignments during weekdays, leaving my weekends free for exploration.

The academic routine at Strathclyde emphasized self-study and exploration. With only three subjects and few weekly classes, I found myself diving deep into independent projects. The Andersonian Library at Strathclyde was a treasure trove with over a million print volumes, extensive online resources, and designated spaces for group or quiet study. I made the most of its offerings, especially during group assignments and private research.?

A highlight of my time at the library was participating in its training events held during a special themed month. Sessions on topics such as using referencing styles, leveraging online library services, and mastering tools like EndNote were incredibly beneficial and further enhanced my academic experience.

Glasgow is a city full of surprises, blending modernity with historic charm. The city’s free museums, like the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and the Gallery of Modern Art, along with the Necropolis and Glasgow Greens were perfect for weekend visits. I also made a wonderful local friend early on, who took me on hikes and introduced me to hidden gems around the city. These experiences helped me immerse myself in Scottish culture beyond the classroom.

One of the best ways to explore Scotland was through 足球即时比分 Student Tours. These curated tours, tailored for students, made it affordable and convenient to visit iconic landmarks. Most of the places I visited were part of their excellent itineraries.

My travels in Scotland were nothing short of magical. Some of the highlights included Edinburgh with it’s medieval charm, stunning views from Calton Hill, and a walk through the Royal Mile; Loch Ness (sadly, no Nessie sightings!); The Isle of Skye with its fairy pools and the Old Man of Storr – a must-visit for movie-fans from Outlander, Highlander or Transformers; Whisky Distilleries and Inverness – the capital of the Scottish Highlands, which is surrounded by scenic landscapes resting on the banks of the beautiful River Ness.

At Strathclyde, I participated in the Strathclyde Inspire Event, an entrepreneurial challenge aligned with the UN's sustainable development goals. I pitched an idea to develop dashboards for SMEs to achieve energy efficiency, which was well-received and was a rewarding experience that sharpened my skills as a budding entrepreneur.

One of the most valuable aspects of the event was the opportunity to connect with established young entrepreneurs, who shared constructive feedback and inspired us with their journeys.

I also completed a Data Science project that involved using machine learning models to identify loan defaulters for a financial system – an experience that significantly boosted my technical and analytical skills.

This exchange semester was more than just an academic journey – it was a transformative experience. From honing my data science skills to exploring Scotland's mesmerizing landscapes, I lived these three months to the fullest.

Looking ahead, I aim to pursue a career as a Data Analyst while continuing to explore the opportunities this exciting field offers. While Scotland holds a special place in my heart, I’m eager to discover other parts of the world, both for professional growth and personal adventures.
To anyone considering a semester abroad, I’ll leave you with this: “Do not be afraid to explore and discover. There is freedom beyond your fears.”

Text: Reema D'Silva