Annie Irving

Annie Irving, then a student at Guilford College, North Carolina, USA, came on a one semester exchange visit in 2007. She studied Biology and English.

Why did you choose to study at Dundee University?

The reputation of the University in the Life Sciences. It was the best out of all my options for study abroad. I also wanted to study in Scotland rather than England.

What have you done since graduation?

I enjoyed my time in Scotland immensely and after I graduated I returned to Scotland to work in higher education. As I am a British citizen, I am waiting to establish residency and go back to university. I was recently accepted into the Medicine program at Dundee and will begin my studies in September 2011.

How has your degree helped you in the 'real world'?

My time at Dundee broadened my educational awareness. I really enjoyed the more independent approach to my studies. It was also amazing to have so many international students on campus, thus learning about different cultures. Dundee is a great place to expand your awareness. Coming to Scotland changed the course of my life in that I now live, work, and plan to study medicine here. I did not foresee any of this before my semester studying abroad.

What was the most enjoyable thing about your degree and why?

The most enjoyable thing about studying abroad at Dundee was the people I met here. My study abroad friends have become my family here now that I have moved here permanently. As part of the University, it is refreshing to be surrounded my intellectual people, but in a context that isn't pretentious. The compact campus really harbours a community feel and Dundee quickly becomes home.

What was your best university experience and why?

The practicals in my sciences classes were brilliant. The ability to work with lecturers from Ninewells and experts in the fields was a great experience. The projects and labs were like a brain massage, both intellectually stimulating, but fun as well!

Do you have any advice for potential new students?

If you are thinking about studying abroad, you should definitely consider Dundee. It is a great place to learn, but also a great place to meet new people and have experiences that will last a life-time.

How did you find settling into life in the UK?

Even though I have been back and forth to the UK most of my life, I found moving over here difficult at first, especially for the first week or so. This was mostly due to home-sickness and a bit of culture shock. However, once I settled in and began to meet new people and make myself aware of my surroundings, I found life in the UK very enjoyable. Living here now is definitely in my "top 5 best decisions I have ever made" list.