This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to conduct my research project at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. It was my first time traveling abroad alone. Though I was initially nervous, I adapted to my new surroundings fairly quickly.

Still, there were certainly a few moments of culture “shock,” but I prefer to call them culture “surprises” (since I don’t think Scotland and the U.S. are too culturally different). 

First, I was surprised by the thick Scottish accent. At times, it felt like people were speaking an entirely different language.

Second, I found it bizarre that Scottish people don’t refrigerate their eggs. 

Third, haggis is not bad (but not good either). 

Aside from the culinary surprises, I was also captivated by the diversity of Scotland. Each town and city I visited had its own distinct character. St. Andrews is a picturesque seaside college town, while Edinburgh is a mystical, medieval city straight out of Harry Potter. If Crail is the coastal retirement town of your dreams and Dundee is the punk, fentanyl-laced city of your teens, then Perth is the suburban haven of your mid-40s. 

I think every town has its charms—if only you are patient enough to linger.

I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to not only research at a Scottish university, but also live in and travel across the country. I feel like I've become more adventurous and open minded about trying new foods, visiting new places, and most importantly, meeting new people.