Moran, Katherine

Katherine Moran

Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you select your program?
I chose to study abroad to experience a different culture, gain a global perspective, and to challenge myself by living somewhere new. I have practically lived in North Carolina my entire life, and I had never been out of the US prior to studying abroad, and I thought a change in environment and going outside of my comfort zone would be beneficial for myself. I chose to study in Scotland because of the language as well as the wide range in Classics courses. The professors seemed to be experts in their fields and I thought they would offer different perspectives to the topics I have learned here at UNC. Overall I thought studying in Scotland would be an unique experience and lead to learning lots of new skills such as traveling and learning to live somewhere entirely different. 

What did you learn about yourself?
I learned that I can be more independent than I would have thought. I gained a lot of skills living in Scotland such as navigating various public transportation, adopting to a new academic requirements, and navigating unfamiliar environments. I had to experience these challenges head-on without consistent access to my usual support systems from back home (like my mom and best friends). Overall, I have felt more confident in myself by stepping out of my comfort zone in this experience. 

What is one of your favorite memories from your program?
One of my favorite memories from my program was swimming in the North Sea after exams were finished! It was such a memorable time to experience with my friends that I made while studying there and such a highlight overall. It was bittersweet in the way that it was the end of my time there, but I will never forget that feeling. It was absolutely freezing but well worth it. Another favorite memory was going to the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye. I dipped my face into the river for good luck despite being freezing, and the nature was just absolutely beautiful. 

What advice do you have for future study abroad students?
The university that you are studying at will provide you with additional resources if you just ask! They are used to exchange students and they can offer advice and support. My biggest fear was about how am I going to make friends in Scotland, but I was able to make friends the same way I have here at UNC through classes, programs, and social events. Other study abroad students are in the same position as you, and it is easy to bond over that shared experience as well. The St Andrews Global Office were easy to message about any concerns and they will direct you to in the right direction. 

How do you identify?
Scholarship Recipient

Could you share any experiences where your identity played a role in your time abroad?
As a scholarship recipient, I was able to do some traveling in Scotland. I did have to remain mindful about the money I was spending, but it did relieve some financial pressure overall. It could be easy to be envious of study abroad students traveling a lot more than you, but I had a great time doing free activities around St Andrews, and exploring Scotland by bus. 

Is there any advice you would give to other students who share your identity?
I would encourage students to apply to all of the scholarships from host and home institutions that are applicable to them. It does not hurt to try, and overall, studying abroad can be done inexpensively outside of the major costs of flights, tuition, and accommodations. 

Memories