Exchanging haggis for Hollywood: The pros and cons of doing a year abroad

A year ago, the idea that I’d spend third year abroad living in California seemed as much of a pipe dream as getting a £2 pint in Edinburgh. Yet here I am – having experiences beyond what I could have ever imagined and creating lore for my future children. Although it’s only been a month or two, it’s like what they say on Love Island: a day in the villa is like a week in the outside world. And that’s exactly how it feels in the year abroad bubble. So if you’re currently debating whether or not to give the application a whirl, here are five pros and cons to help you make the right decision for you. 

Pro: Getting out of your comfort zone

Really putting the study into study abroad

There’s no denying that taking the leap to do a year abroad is both the most exhilarating and daunting decision you can make. You’re up and moving your whole life to a country (and continent even) you might never have been before. The reward for your bravery is opportunities you would never get in Edinburgh. From Greek life and frat parties to driverless cars – the list is inexhaustible. So buckle up if you want an adventure and get ready to feel like you’re stepping into a film.  

Con: Endless logistics and admin

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If you think the research and application are long at the beginning of this process, then prepare yourself for battle because the admin that’s ahead is enough to make anyone tear their hair out. This depends on your choice of exchange destination but the endless bureaucracy likely involves applying for a visa, managing fees, sorting accommodation, securing healthcare and battling both universities to take the courses you want. And that’s not even the tip of the iceberg… 

Pro: Meeting new people

California girls x

This is a unique opportunity to meet people you genuinely would never cross paths with in your typical life. Amazing people with amazing stories from all over the world. You will certainly make friendships that will last a lifetime, making you question how you managed before you met all these new characters. Not to mention having places to crash all over the world. It’s a whole new season with an entirely new cast, and we’re here for it – just enjoy your peace before the plot begins plotting x

Con: Expensive

There’s no two ways about it, a year abroad is a spenny venture. Flights, vaccines, admin fees, you name it. Yes, you have the chance to study internationally at a fraction of the usual costs, but to even consider doing an exchange year is an incredibly privileged position to be in. This is a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. You might be having the time of your life, but your bank account won’t be.  

Pro: Travelling

Not quite Portobello though

What’s accessible to you varies greatly depending on your destination, but the opportunities to travel have never felt closer. In California, for example, this involves road trips to Yosemite and swimming in lakes which feel like Mediterranean beaches. There is stunning scenery at the edge of your fingertips. Even if you haven’t gone out there with other Edi students, you’ll make friends who’ll be up for travelling around with you. 

Con: Homesickness

Often, the number one concern is how much you’ll miss your family and friends. Bristol to Edi seems far until you side quest to Australia. This feeling is only natural, but you’ll likely be so busy that it won’t hit you for a while. Even with time differences, there’s always a way to reach the people you care about. Like at normal uni, there’ll be good days and bad, but home is only a FaceTime away – well, if your brother starts picking up your calls that is… 

Pro: Making all your friends jealous 

Just a casual trip to the Golden Gate Bridge

This is the time to live well and truly for the plot. You’ll gather stories that sound unbelievable even to you. All your friends will be texting, begging for updates and saying how much they miss you (or so I’d hope). When you come back, there’ll be the ultimate debrief. After all that time, work and money, you made it. Why not post on that Insta story and let the world see what they’re missing?    

Con: Edinburgh FOMO

Yes, you’re probably having the time of your life, but it’s also natural to imagine what life would be like if you’d stayed. Don’t let this hold you back, however, as a Scottish degree provides you with the unique opportunity to go abroad and still graduate with your original cohort. 

Pro: Once in a lifetime opportunity 

It doesn’t get quite better than this

This is a chance to temporarily live abroad without uprooting your entire life and plans. It might be the place you’ve always dreamed of going to, or a newfound option you’d never even considered. You can go somewhere where it’s sunny every day or where they speak another language; the possibilities are truly endless. 

Con: Academic fear

There’s certainly an underlying anxiety, knowing that fourth year will count 100 per cent towards your degree. But on the other side of this, how incredible is it that only one year matters on a four year course? That’s three years to piss about and one to lock in. I don’t know about you, but that’s some maths that I can get behind.