I chose the program because it had my major, public relations, and I wanted to be in Europe, so I figured Scotland was the perfect place to be. I definitely was not disappointed. CIS was great helping through the process. They really put my mind at ease. It was a great semester abroad and I wouldn't have changed it for the world.
Alumni Spotlight: Elisa DiGiacopo
What did your program provider assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
The program and the university pretty much provided everything besides flights which I set up by myself. Otherwise, they sent how to select my classes, applying to the program and the school, and all the housing information. They even had someone pick me up from the airport and had bedding sorted, which was nice.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
Just relax. I am very anxious, especially when I'm traveling, but as soon as I realized that CIS helps with most of the big things and some of the smaller things. Also, take as many opportunities as possible. I realize this after every country I go to, that I should have done a day trip here, or gone to eat there. Honestly leave with no regrets.
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
On Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday I had class on one of the campuses at Napier. Besides Thursday, when I was done at 4, I was done early so I would g back to my flat and get work done or hang out on campus with my classmates. On Monday's and Wednesday's, I'd either get schoolwork done, either at my flat or at the library, or go into town and hang out. On the weekends, I'd do the touristy thing and explore the city.
Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?
I think my biggest fear was just traveling. I always get very anxious when I travel. I overcame it when I was on the plane ride to Edinburgh, I found someone who was studying at the same school and I realized that I was going to be OK. Looking back, I'm still anxious traveling, not really about the city I'm going to, more on just getting there, which is silly.