When people picture postgraduate life at a prestigious university like the University of Edinburgh, they might imagine long hours in the library, deep intellectual discussions, and an endless supply of coffee. While some of that is true, the reality is a mix of academic rigor, personal challenges and moments of joy. As an international student balancing my studies, faith, personal well-being and future career aspirations, my days are packed but fulfilling.
Though there are times when you feel sapped of strength, I urge you to treat yourself like you would treat a child who is still trying to make sense of the world.
I wouldn’t want social media’s rose-coloured glasses of university life to distort how varied this can be for everyone, so here’s my realistic day in the life of a postgraduate student!
Morning Routine: Starting with Purpose
My day usually starts early—though not too early, because sleep is a priority! I wake up around 8 AM, take some time to hype myself for the day with prayers, an affirmation here and there and setting a daily intention. I try my best to take time to ask myself, ‘Why am I doing this in the first place?’ This could be a simple: ‘I am doing this because everything I have been through was to train me for this moment.’ As mortals we are so overwhelmed with what is required of us that we often forget why we do what we do.
After that I freshen up (sometimes grudgingly, because staying in bed can seem so tempting, especially when it’s time for class). Proceeding this internal battle, I head to the kitchen for a healthy breakfast. Since I’m on a fitness journey, I try to make mindful choices—Greek yogurt with fruit, eggs, or a smoothie to keep me energized for the day ahead.
Commute and First Study Session
By 9 AM I’m either heading to campus or setting up my study space at home, depending on the schedule for the day. The walk to the university, if I choose to go, is a time I intentionally take to observe the world around me. Edinburgh’s charm never fades – even in the misty cold, there’s something magical about the cobbled streets and historic buildings.
Once I arrive, I greet my cohort-mates, and we have a semi-profound conversation about our academic conundrums. My Master’s in Global Mental Health and Society involves a mix of research, critical discussions, and writing assignments. Some days, I might be working on an essay about mental health policies, while on others, I’ll be reading case studies on global interventions. Having a structured study plan while being flexible with how I choose to invest my time helps me to manoeuvre my coursework without feeling overwhelmed.
Midday: Classes and Discussions
By late morning, I typically have a seminar or a lecture. Postgraduate classes at Edinburgh are engaging but intense—there’s an expectation that you come prepared, ready to contribute to discussions. As someone with a background in Psychology, I find the interdisciplinary nature of my course fascinating – sometimes way too abstract for my liking, yet never failing to constantly challenge my perspectives.
Afternoon: Balancing Responsibilities
By 2 PM, I take a break for lunch. If I’m on campus, I might grab something from the café at Potterow Dome or grab a quick bite from the Sainsbury’s near the Edinburgh Futures Institute, but I try to bring homemade meals to stay on track with my health goals.
After lunch, I either linger around in quiet spaces in the Central Campus where I’m not overstimulated, or work on job applications related to my goal of entering full-time Christian ministry. I try my best to connect what I study to what I believe my purpose in life could be. Some days I’m successful in doing this, while other days have me questioning the very foundations of who I am. I then remind myself that I’m still learning how adulting works- thanks to the earth-shattering development of my frontal lobe.
Some afternoons I have meetings with my mental health mentor, which is a crucial part of my personal and professional development. These sessions help me navigate the pressures of postgraduate life whilst staying grounded.
Winding Up for The Day
Towards dusk, I try to meet up with at least one friend to rant. This helps me understand how all of us are living different lives and in different seasons, yet sometimes find ourselves in same boat sailing towards finding peace and purpose. For me, this sentiment makes me feel less like I’m thrown in the middle of the ocean with zero survival skills. I figured this is essential, especially if you’re someone like me who self-isolates during challenges.
Living abroad can be lonely at times, but I cherish the friendships I’ve made here. We often bond over shared struggles and dreams, reminding each other why we’re on this journey.
By 9 PM, I prepare my mind and body for much needed slumber with some light reading of comforting scriptures or watching my favourite series. Although I sometimes feel the need to withdraw to the comfortable cocoon back home in India, I also appreciate how Edinburgh pushes me to show up for myself every day. My days might have their own share of inspiration and even second guessing my decisions, yet I’m grateful for whatever this season is trying to teach me.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Journey
Being a postgraduate student at the University of Edinburgh is both stimulating and rewarding. It requires discipline, resilience, and a strong sense of purpose. But amidst the deadlines, the research, and the occasional stress, there’s beauty in the journey. I’m not just earning a degree—I’m shaping a future that aligns with my faith, passions, and the impact I hope to make in the world.
And of course, when things get tough, nothing lifts my spirits quite like basking in the serenity of St Patrick’s Church in Cowgate or playing with a happy dog—just not a Chihuahua!
