During your stay away, you’re able to explore Dalkeith and take in some new sights. | Photo by Sami Boyd
If you dream of studying in other countries, meeting new people, and experiencing different cultures, the University of Wisconsin-Superior and the UW school system offer numerous study abroad and student exchange opportunities for its students.
One of those is “Experience Scotland,” administered by UW-River Falls. The semester-long program takes students to Newbattle Abbey in Dalkeith, a town six miles southeast of Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh.
Newbattle Abbey is a 16th-century historic building and formerly a Cistercian monastery. Students stay in dorm-style accommodation on the grounds during the program and can explore Dalkeith as it is within walking distance from the abbey. Beth Austin, an instructor and advisor in the Communicating Arts department, is joining the group for the Spring 2025 semester.
“It’s in walking distance to town, students get a free bus pass, students get a free pass to access Historic Scotland,” Austin said about the abbey.
Students from multiple universities share the common spaces in the dorm-style accommodations. | Photos contributed by Beth Austin
Students from over ten different majors can participate in Experience Scotland. There is a required course called Scotland: Society and Globalization. Students have four other modules to pick for the semester that can enrich their time in Scotland. Some of these other modules include Drawing, Personal and Community Health, and Scotland: Heritage and Culture. Austin is teaching Digital Storytelling and Social Media during her time with the program. She said she is excited to see how the students learn about a new culture through her course.
In addition to taking classes in a different environment, those who participate can expect to experience Scottish culture through regular field trips. Austin said there are a variety of suggested activities for the group to attend weekly. Some projected trips include a Harry Potter walking tour, excursions to Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Highlands, and an Edinburgh photography tour. Field trips are subject to change due to availability and interest from students.
Wisconsin students may qualify for up to $1,000 in grant money to help fund their Study Away experience if they already receive financial aid. | Photo contributed by Beth Austin
Enrollment is currently open for the Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 semesters. Information regarding costs and additional details for the program are on the Study Away portal, accessible through the UWS website with campus log-in details.
