Studying abroad brought about a number of insurmountable challenges that I did not anticipate. From losing my phone to not having a flat to stay in to being locked outside of my hostel, I embraced these moments of adversity and learned more about the need to be flexible and adaptable in every situation. I found solace in the other study abroad students, who welcomed me into their home on my first night. I relied on the kindness of my (now) roommate, who showed me around the area and gave me little tidbits of advice on navigating my time here.
Now I start my mornings with the sunlight peeking through my window and a warm cup of tea with milk and sugar, as it is a prominent component of British culture. Then, I head out into the brisk cold air en route to my internship at the United Nations House Scotland (UNHS), a civil society organisation dedicated to advancing the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. It was only my first day, but I had the opportunity to attend a climate action planning meeting where I met with their Climate Change Coordinator and Human Rights Coordinator! Four hours later, we drafted plans for a moot court focused on environmental migration and climate refugees and sustainable and locally sourced dinner seminars. They both welcomed the insights and perspective I had to offer as we fomented various ideas on how to bring these events into fruition. I also met with the Executive Director, Dr. Gari Donn, who has been extremely kind and personable to me. She is constantly looking after me, and thinking about different opportunities for me to maximize my internship experience. I have expressed my interest in human trafficking and modern slavery, especially the recent developments in this area concerning the trafficking of Vietnamese nationals and the unique challenges they face in identification, prevention, and remediation. I have been assigned to the human trafficking and modern slavery core working group, and we are drafting our initial plans for a conference that will hone in on contemporary challenges of human trafficking and solutions from various stakeholders. It has only been my first week, but I already know there is so much ahead of me!
My initial inquiry into Scottish food brought about pictures of haggis (the national dish made with minced intestines and organs of sheep, pigs, or cows) with neeps (turnips) and tatties (mashed potatoes), fresh Scottish salmon, bangers (sausages) and mash, and Scottish meat pies – all of which are not vegan/vegetarian-friendly. Despite this prominent food narrative, I was shocked to find the plethora of vegan and/or vegetarian options available to me in Edinburgh! I had no difficulty locating vegan/vegetarian-friendly dishes while dining out with my new-found friends, and even places that are not typically categorised as “vegan” will have at least one option on their menu. I have found that all of the homes have compost bins for food. Aside from food culture, I learned about different pieces of environmental-conscious legislation. Did you know that Edinburgh is a low-emission carbon zone?! Scotland’s commitment to environmental and sustainable practises was not something I initially anticipated, and I appreciate the Scottish people I have encountered that are engaging in local level activities to reduce their carbon footprint, but also the government’s efforts in bringing these issues to the forefront of policy and commitment to mitigating climate change!
Through it all, I have learned to soak in the little bits of sun and to cherish the positive moments. Although the days are shorter here, as the sun sets at 3:00 PM everyday. The moonlight is how this city thrives. So, cheers to thriving as I study abroad here!
Abroad With An 