Hi! My name is Madeline Flores, and I’m a third-year Political Science and Public Relations double major. In the Summer of 2024, I had the opportunity to study abroad in Edinburgh, Scotland. For June of 2024, I was able to immerse myself in Scottish culture and study Political Economy, along with being guided through undergraduate research.
My time in Scotland started with getting adjusted to the time change and our new stomping grounds, with a guided walking tour of the City of Edinburgh’s Old Town. The next day, we had the time to visit Edinburgh Castle and walk the hallowed halls of Scottish Royalty.
One of the trip’s highlights is a multiday excursion to the Scottish Highlands, including the three sisters site, Loch Ness, the Highland Folk Museum, and even Stirling Castle. A special highlight for any Harry Potter fan is the Jacobite Steam Train (aka the Hogwarts Express. The Scottish Highlands are truly a special place. Take a dip in Loch Ness if the weather allows.
Another highpoint is the guidance of Dr. Ainsworth. Under the guidance of Dr. Ainsworth I gained wealth of knowledge regarding not only Politics, but Scotland itself. You can see the passion that Dr. Ainsworth has for the country and the joy he takes in sharing it with students.
I cannot make the recommendation enough to take a trip up to the Isle of Skye. The place is soaked in Scottish history and truly downright magical. I took the weekend to travel from Edinburgh to Inverness and from there made a day trip to the Isle of Skye. The tour stopped at Eilean Donan Castle. Then resting in the town of Portree before stumbling upon the cutest Highland Coos. The rest of the day was packed with Kilt Rock Falls, Old Man and the Storr, and finished up with a dip in the Fairy Pools. 
The rest of my time in Scotland was filled with memories to last a lifetime. Deepening my passion for the study of Politics, no matter the borders. To this day, Edinburgh, Scotland, still feels like home away from home.
