Rodrigo, originally from Lima, Peru, is an international student pursuing a master’s degree in construction project management at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh. Read on to learn more about his experience adjusting to a new culture, exploring the vibrant campus life at Heriot-Watt, and his advice for other students considering studying abroad.
From Peru to Edinburgh
Rodrigo began his civil engineering studies back in Peru. One year after graduating with his undergraduate credentials, he decided to start a master’s degree in the UK. The decision to leave home was challenging, but Rodrigo was ready.
“I felt like it was the right time to leave my country since I’m young,” he said. “Also, I have family here in Scotland, so it was part of the decision, too.”
Researching universities in Scotland led him to Heriot-Watt, which soon became his top choice.
“When I investigated the uni, I found that they have a really good program. A lot of universities are career-first around here, and I would have a lot of opportunities after my graduation,” he said. Rodrigo applied, was accepted, and by late summer 2023, he was preparing for his new life in Scotland.
Studying at Heriot-Watt University
Heriot-Watt University is among the top 25 in the world for engineering and technology, according to THE World University Rankings. With access to world-class research facilities, academic support, and learning resources, Rodrigo has been able to develop a variety of industry-specific skills during his master’s program.
“It is a rich program,” he said. “The approach that they use for the courses is totally different from where I came from.” At Heriot-Watt, professors take a practical, experiential approach toward teaching and learning. Students are encouraged to participate in interactive classroom discussions about industry breakthroughs and pursue research initiatives in their chosen areas. Faculty are also available for student Q&A outside the classroom through digital platforms, email, and office hours.
“It has been a really good experience,” Rodrigo adds.
Career-First Approach at Heriot-Watt University
At Heriot-Watt University, students have access to a variety of workshops and career services to help them understand which industry they would like to work in, the types of businesses ready to hire graduates, and how to get familiar with organizational culture, working environments, and more.
“The last few weeks we had several career fairs,” Rodrigo said. “We have one especially for STEM careers — engineering, finance, and science,” he added. The university maintains close relationships with industry leaders to help students build networks with professionals in their field and learn more about their future prospects. Heriot-Watt also invites organization representatives to share their expectations for new hires, skills they are looking for in candidates, and available roles and their specific responsibilities.
“Last week we had career fairs especially for construction and civil engineering,” Rodrigo said. “We have a special guide assigned to each program. They are in charge of sending all the news about careers, events, companies having meetings [with students], social events to get to know the company, [and] about future programs for graduate students.”
Rodrigo’s program also includes full-day workshops designed to simulate a typical workday, running from nine to five with a lunch break. These sessions incorporate discussion rooms, project work, and real-life scenarios, offering a hands-on learning approach.
With Heriot-Watt University’s dedicated career and academic support, Rodrigo feels well prepared to pursue opportunities in his field, even while completing his studies. Beyond academics and career resources, adapting to a new culture has also been a major part of his journey as an international student.
Adjusting to Life and Culture at Heriot-Watt
Coming from Peru, Rodrigo’s transition to life in the UK included adapting to a colder climate and adjusting to culture shock.
“The weather is totally different,” he said. “Coming from a warm country, [I found] it’s quite cold here.”
The food culture was another adjustment for Rodrigo, as UK cuisine is very different from the flavors of Peru. Fortunately, Edinburgh’s diverse market options make it possible to find ingredients from home, allowing Rodrigo to recreate familiar dishes and share meals with friends.
“We usually cook most of the time,” he said.
The diversity Rodrigo found on campus also helped him adjust to life at one of the universities in Scotland. “You find a lot of people from different backgrounds, cultures, and ages,” he said. This rich cultural mix helped him feel more at ease and gave him a chance to make new friends and share a bit of his own culture as well.
Rodrigo’s Advice for International Students
For Rodrigo, studying abroad has been a rewarding experience, but he acknowledges the journey comes with its own set of challenges. His main advice for international students is to prepare mentally and emotionally for the adjustment period and find healthy outlets for managing homesickness.
“One of the things that has really helped me on this journey is find[ing] something you like, doing sports, going to the gym, so it relieves any issues,” he said. Whatever it may be, “spend time with it, even if it is alone or with someone else.”
He also emphasized the importance of taking advantage of campus resources. Heriot-Watt University offers a wide range of support services for international students, from academic guidance to career counseling and social events.
“Be proactive in asking for help,” Rodrigo advised, adding that reaching out early can make a significant difference in feeling supported.
For international students considering starting their own study abroad experience, Rodrigo’s experience highlights the value of embracing every moment, seeking support, and stepping confidently into new opportunities. Heriot-Watt University could also be the perfect place for your own study abroad journey!
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