My Time in Aberdeen - International Student Stories

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My Time in Aberdeen - International Student Stories

Welcome to My Time in Aberdeen, a collection of real moments and reflections from incoming exchange students who studied at the University of Aberdeen.

You’ll find out what everyday life in the city is really like, from settling in and making friends to discovering new places and finding your feet in a new home abroad.

Come and join us in Aberdeen and make your own story.

In Their Own Words

Thoughts and moments from students who chose Aberdeen for their exchange/study abroad year.

Kellie-Anne

I’ve grown to realise [coming to Aberdeen] was the best decision I’ve ever made. I’ve met my best friends and created a place for myself in the Granite City.

Emma

I have really enjoyed living with full-time students at Hillhead student village. My flatmates are Scottish and Finnish and it’s been really great making friends from different countries and learning about their cultures.

Wasilia

I wanted to thank you for this once in a lifetime experience you have granted me by being so involved and working hard on ensuring our going abroad goes smoothly.

Grace

The city of Aberdeen is beautiful. I really love the opportunities it presents, there is a lot of things to do and a lot of places to go, and everywhere your walking is gorgeous it’s just old stone.

Lisa

The whole Go Abroad Team have been a great support during my exchange time here in Aberdeen… and continue to provide tips for making the most out of our time in Aberdeen even beyond academic life.

Leo

[Melanie] works so incredibly hard to make sure all incoming students feel welcome and safe in our new environment. She ensures that all abroad students can confide in her and she creates a wonderful safe space for all of us.

Amelia

Moving to a new country is a big step, and it’s incredibly reassuring and lovely to have such hardworking, kind, and genuine people supporting us…along the way.

Melissa

The exchange was such an incredible experience, and I look back on it with so many amazing memories. It was also so great to know that you just had to reach out if there was any problem or struggle at all of any size and of any topic.

Through Their Lens: Photo Competition Highlights

See Aberdeen and the surrounding area through the eyes of our incoming students. These images, submitted for our annual student photo competition, capture their favourite moments during their time in Aberdeen.

Old Aberdeen campus (Trinity)

Old Aberdeen campus (Trinity)

A picture of the New King’s Building on our main campus in Old Aberdeen, a historic quarter of the city.

Aberdeen beachfront at dusk (Tanya)

Aberdeen beachfront at dusk (Tanya)

The Aberdeen beach front is an iconic part of the city, a great place for long walks with several amusements and amenities to explore.

Seaton Park in Aberdeen (Luke)

Seaton Park in Aberdeen (Luke)

Seaton Park lies between our Hillhead Student Village and Old Aberdeen campus and is regularly enjoyed by students moving to and from their accommodation.

Dunnottar Castle (Jeremiah)

Dunnottar Castle (Jeremiah)

The northeast of Scotland is well known for its abundance of historic castles. From large ruins to stately homes, there is all manner of historic sites for students to visit.

Stonehaven (Brendan)

Stonehaven (Brendan)

Outside Aberdeen, there are plenty of beautiful towns and villages for students to also explore, such as Stonehaven. Each has their own charms and local activities to discover.

Meet the local wildlife (Carson)

Meet the local wildlife (Carson)

You can’t come to Scotland without getting to know the local wildlife! Highland cows are a particular favourite of students over the years, but what will you meet on your travels?

Aberdeenshire countryside (Eline)

Aberdeenshire countryside (Eline)

The northeast of Scotland is a landscape of rolling hills and scattered woodlands, a great place for outdoor lovers. If you want a bigger challenge why don’t you try and climb up on one of the local Murnos!