Ten must-try foods if you’re coming to study in Scotland

George Kaniyarasseril Joseph is a MA Broadcast Journalism student at UWS. He’s originally from India, and writes about how Scotland – and UWS – has become his home away from home.

ABOVE: George and lecturer Shona Wallace

Scotland…is pretty far away from my home country of India. 4780 miles away, in fact. That weighed on my mind when I was considering studying at the University of the West of Scotland. The idea of studying in the UK excited me, and I genuinely thought Scotland was one of the best student destinations in the world. Even so, I was apprehensive; and that’s why I wanted to write this blog post.

I want to answer the questions I had before coming to study at UWS, and, I hope, help you discover why you have nothing to fear – and everything to look forward to – if you’re thinking about studying in Scotland.

ABOVE: The UWS Ayr campus (credit: Bryan Shaw)

• Is Scotland the right place for me to live?

Through friends and research, I already knew that Scotland was a world class student destination. What I didn’t know, at least at first, was whether or not Scotland was the right place for me to live. I wanted to study in a calm and peaceful atmosphere – and yes, I know that probably doesn’t sound like your typical student life. However, it can be. UWS offers an exciting, lively social life, if that’s what you want. The diverse locations around each of the five campuses also means you can enjoy a more tranquil life, if you wish.

I study in Ayr, and there are a lot of stunning, rural locations in which you can study and live. There are busier places too, and it’s so easy to jump on a train and travel through to Glasgow, Paisley and beyond. Ayr itself is a busy town, with lots to do. It also has a stunning beach…and countryside. During my days off, it’s a brilliant location in which to really treasure the beauty of Scotland. The scenery nearby is just jaw-dropping. Take a look at the UWS Instagram page if you need further evidence. The landscape is beautiful, and the locals are so welcoming and friendly.

If you’re in the mood for something busier, city life here is great. There are so many great pubs, clubs, restaurants, gaming facilities, shops and gyms. If you want to follow a sports team, that’s easy to do too. Scottish people LOVE sport – and the passionate atmosphere can be a lot of fun.

ABOVE: George and his Broadcast Journalism coursemates

• Why the UWS Broadcast Journalism programme?

I studied an undergraduate degree in Mass Communication in India. I wanted to obtain a Masters degree in a similar area, and there are a lot of options out there. What attracted me to UWS was the high student success rate when it comes to finding a career in the media industry. It becomes even more apparent once you’re here – UWS Journalism and Broadcast Journalism graduates are actively working in newsrooms across the country. They’re editors at national newspapers and radio stations. They’re chief reporters. They’re working on UK-wide news broadcasts.

In addition, the teaching staff are either active journalists, or former journalists, who worked at the highest level. That makes learning from them incredibly exciting. 

• Would I adapt to the learning culture?

I’ll be honest with you – I found this challenging, at first. The modules were highly practical and very fast-paced, and I even considered – briefly - dropping out. Thankfully, the support offered here is incredible. I spoke to my tutor about my concerns, and I found it very helpful. My lecturers also set me up with a mentor – a graduate who had completed the course before me – and this was also really useful.

When you’re starting a new course in a new country, that’s being thrown in at the deep end. You may well feel that way too – just know that there are plenty of people around to help teach you to swim. The educational system here may be different than what you’re used to, but you will adapt. I now find it much easier, and the practical nature of the course has filled me with confidence. I feel ready to work as a journalist, and to step into a real newsroom.

• What’s the support like, and will it be enough?

I mentioned the support already, but I think it’s worth mentioning it again. The support both in and out of the classroom is fantastic. I feel like I know the academics on a personal level. For example, when I tested positive for Covid-19, one of my tutors checked in on me, asked if I needed help, and actively encouraged me to contact him at any time, if I needed anything. When you’re having to isolate, that means something. It’s so helpful.

Another day, a different lecturer came to class with traditional Scottish food for the students to try. This was a lot of fun for the international students in particular, and it helped my course feel like a community as much as it did a class.

Scottish people are welcoming – UWS is welcoming. If you need support to adjust, it’s there. If you’re worried about settling, please don’t. This has become one of the most memorable and happiest times of my life. Being 4780 miles away from your home would be challenging. It just so happens, though, that I have a home here.