Surviving and thriving in Edinburgh: Your social and academic playbook
By Gia, from India, studying MSc Global Mental Health and Society.
Moving from India to Edinburgh in my mid-20s was daunting and deeply rewarding. As someone who’s walked this path, here’s what I wish I had known before arriving: practical tips, cultural insights, and advice to help you feel prepared and at home.
Social life
Balancing connection and solitude
Making friends abroad can be nerve-wracking — thoughts like “Will I find my tribe?” or “What if I end up alone while others have the time of their life?” can spiral. The truth is that the first set of people you meet at University may or may not be your friends till the end. Deep connections often blossom unexpectedly — with a course-mate, a flatmate, or even a stranger on a journey.
Ways to connect in Edinburgh
University societies
Explore groups tied to your interests — photography, hiking, or even mental health awareness. They’re fantastic spaces to meet like-minded people.
Find out more about the University’s societies.
Faith groups
If you’re seeking spiritual encouragement, these offer both social and emotional support.
Even with these options, there may be lonely days. When that happens, remember showing up for yourself — even when it’s hard — is an incredible act of strength. You’re braver than you know.
When I am faced with days that make me doubt the fabric of my being, I go to St Patrick’s Church which is just a 2-minute walk from my accommodation, and bask in the glory and serenity of the Divine. Following this, I treat myself to my favourite meal and comfort show. This has been my magic portion for a trying day!
Academic life
Managing the workload
The academic environment at the University of Edinburgh is distinct from India’s system. Here’s what to expect:
Critical Thinking
Memorisation takes a backseat. Focus on analysing theories and concepts.
Independent Study
Fewer contact hours mean more time for self-directed learning and research.
High Standards of Grading
As someone who consistently scored 80-90% during school and undergrad, I was dumbstruck to find that my first semester grades ended up in the 60-70% range only to find out that, here this is often considered impressive — don’t be disheartened if your grades look lower than what you’re used to.
Learn more about the University’s marking scheme.
To thrive academically
Attend IAD Workshops
The Institute for Academic Development offers free workshops on essay writing, referencing, and critical thinking — invaluable for adapting to the new system.
Find out what workshops are available.
Consult professors regularly
Speaking with lecturers about assignments or project outcomes can sharpen your understanding.
Emotional wellbeing
Seeking support when needed
Relocation, academic pressure, and homesickness can take an emotional toll. Here’s what helped me:
University Counselling Service
They provide confidential support for stress, anxiety, and emotional struggles.
Explore the student counselling services.
Disability and Learning Support Service (DLSS)
If you need learning adjustments, they’re your go-to. DLSS also offers a Mental Health Mentor Programme — an absolute lifesaver during my toughest seasons.
Learn more about the Disability and Learning Support Service.
Student Advisers
Regular check-ins with your school’s adviser can provide guidance for academic or well-being concerns.
Find out more about our student advisers.
Residence Life
If you live in university accommodation, this team creates a sense of community and promotes wellbeing.
Learn more about the Residence Life team
Dealing with homesickness
Tips to navigate
There have been days I questioned my decision to study in the UK. “Did I have to leave my loving family behind?”, “I miss the comfort of homemade meals and I long for the scent and familiarity of my city.” I was of the notion that this is being ungrateful and weak which is light-years away from the truth!
Homesickness isn’t failure — it’s proof of your strong ties to home. Those connections are part of what makes you who you are. It can hit unexpectedly — during festivals, on bad days, or in the quiet before bed. Here’s what helped me cope:
Stay connected
Regular video calls with family anchor you. Establish a routine — those consistent calls helped me feel closer to home.
Create familiar routines
Cooking home-style meals, decorating your room with reminders of home, or listening to your favorite Bollywood songs can be comforting.
Seek cultural communities
The Edinburgh Indian Society is a fantastic space to connect with people who understand your cultural background.
Learn more about the University’s Indian Society.
Embrace new traditions
Participating in Scottish celebrations like Burns Night or Hogmanay with friends can ease feelings of isolation.
Final words of encouragement
Embracing growth and being kind to yourself
Being a postgraduate student at the University of Edinburgh requires discipline, resilience, and adaptability. There will be days of doubt and moments of stress — but these experiences are shaping you in powerful ways.
Treat yourself with compassion — the way you’d comfort a friend who’s learning to walk in a new world. Each struggle you overcome is a victory that brings you closer to the person you are becoming.
If you ever feel lost, remember this: You’re not alone. You are being shaped by this season, and your future self will look back and thank you for your courage.
Cheers to thriving in Edinburgh!
