Blog by Elena
Hello there!
My name is Elena Mendez, and I am a fourth year studying International Relations. I am from a small but beautiful city in Spain called Burgos, even though I was born in Pamplona, famous for its running of the bull (don’t worry, I have never been chased by one yet!).
When I was 13, I decided it was time to broaden my horizons- or I just wanted an excuse to eat more croissants- and I moved to France. I lived with a host family, fully immersing myself in their culture and language. After two wonderful years there, I packed my bags again and headed to the United States for the last two years of high school. It was all going great however COVID had other plans for me, and I found myself back in Spain for my last year of high school. And just to keep things interesting, I ended up in a British school in Spain, where my accent was more confused than ever. Somehow, this whirlwind journey led me to Edinburgh- a city I had never visited before. But oh, how it surprised me! Who knew a place with four seasons in a single day could feel so much like home? Between the castle views, cozy cafes, and the kindness of the locals, I have found a second home here. Life as an international student hasn’t always been smooth sailing, but it has been the most rewarding adventure. So, stay with me as I share how I managed to feel at home, even while being far from it. Who knows? You might pick up some tips for your own journey!
Adjusting to a new country is always an adventure—but not always the postcard-perfect kind. My first days in Edinburgh were filled with small but mighty challenges, like figuring out the way I had to look when crossing the road (it is the opposite way in Spain) or discovering that the Scottish weather requires you to carry both sunglasses and an umbrella at all times. But the toughest part? Missing home. The smell of freshly baked churros, my family’s laughter over Sunday lunch, and the familiar rhythm of Burgos’ streets felt a world away. Homesickness sneaks up on you—sometimes in the quiet moments when all you want is to hear your native language without subtitles.
What helped? Finding pieces of home wherever I could. Joining the Spanish Society was like hitting the jackpot—it was like a tiny corner of Spain right here in Edinburgh. Getting to talk with people that are experiencing the same as you and get together to cook a tortilla or paella, would temporarily bring me home. Basketball also became my place of peace. The trainings and weekly games with the university team gave me a chance to unwind, forget about academics, and just enjoy the time with my teammates who felt like family. There’s something about the sound of sneakers squeaking on the court and the high-fives after a good game that feels universally comforting.
Over time, Edinburgh stopped being “the place I study” and started being “home.” I found my favorite coffee shop where the barista knows my order (a mocha, in case you’re curious), and I memorized the best spots to watch the sunset over the city. One standout memory? Teaching my Scottish boyfriend how to cook tortilla de patata. Let’s just say there was a lot of egg on the counter—and on the floor—but hearing him exclaim, “This is amazing!” made it all worth it. Moments like these reminded me that sharing your culture is one of the best ways to feel connected to it. Of course, adapting to Scotland came with its quirks—like my first Burns Night supper, where I bravely tried haggis (it wasn’t bad, but let’s just say I’m sticking to jamón). And don’t get me started on deciphering Glaswegian accents—it’s like unlocking a linguistic puzzle.
Being an international student has taught me that home isn’t just a place; it’s a feeling you create. It’s in the friendships you build, the traditions you carry with you, and the new ones you embrace. I’ve learned that stepping out of your comfort zone is where the magic happens—and sometimes that magic is as simple as discovering you can survive without churros or jamón (barely).
If you’re an international student or starting your own journey, here is my advice:
- Get involved. Whether it’s a society, a sport, or a club, find your people—it makes all the difference.
- Stay connected to home. Cook your favorite meals, call your loved ones, and don’t underestimate the power of a playlist full of your favorite songs from back home. A little familiarity goes a long way when the world around you feel new!
- Be open to the unexpected. Some of the best moments happen when you least expect them- whether it’s a spontaneous trip to the Highlands or an accidental discovery of the best scone you’ve ever tasted. (Pro tip: always say yes to scones!)
- Don’t be too hard on yourself. Adjusting takes time, and it’s okay to have days when you just miss home. Celebrating the small victories, like navigating the city without getting lost or making a new friend who gets your jokes.
Looking back, every challenge I faced as an international student was worth it. Edinburgh has given me so much: friendships, memories, and a deeper understanding of myself. It’s taught me that home isn’t about where you are—it’s about the connections you create and the life you build.
So, whether you’re embarking on your own international journey or just looking for ways to feel more at home where you are, know that you’re not alone. Embrace the chaos, the learning, and the laughter. And remember: the world is a lot smaller—and a lot kinder—than it seems when you’re open to it.
Because at the end of the day, home is more than a place—it’s a feeling you can carry with you, wherever your adventure takes you.
