(Because Dr. Seuss has been around forever...)
How about Scotland?
Yup, Scotland.
Last week Thursday I had a meeting with a study abroad advisor. The subject is one that my husband and I have been batting around since we decided that I would go back to school full time. In the beginning I was all for it, and then the reality of living on one income set in. Not only that, but the idea of leaving my newly minted husband for a school year (or even a semester!) was one I didn't know if I was ok with (I mean, I actually like that guy...) Granted, the majority of our relationship time has been long distance, but that was only across 1 time zone change, not 5!
I'm sure Nagma could speak to all the trials and tribulations that go into getting a student visas and all that jazz, but as someone who has never explored the option before, it is very overwhelming. I have the distinct feeling, though, that all the trials will be well worth it.
I have an ancesteral connection to Scotland on my mother's side, which is part of the reason I chose that particular country. It also doesn't hurt that I don't need to know a different language (because those 2 years of high school German really wouldn't serve me well this many years past), though I have the distinct feeling I will FEEL as though I don't understand a thing. The university I'm apply to (University of St. Andrews) is ranked 8th in the UK in their chemistry program...another plus for them. It also just so happens that a friend's husband is working on his Doctorate in Theology there, so I have built in friends.
I am currently in the process of rounding up all my various college transcripts (of which there are many), letters of recommendation, personal statements, etc, all while keeping up with the rest of my school work (including that Chem exam I have in about 18 hours, and the Bio lab quiz I have in about 36 hours.) After I get all the application stuffs in, then I get to delve further into finding scholarships (because studying abroad is anything but cheap!), applying for visas, making sure I have the appropriate funds available for said visa (5400£), updating my passport (because of the whole married thing) and on and on it goes.
Phew! Like I said, though, it will be well worth it. I am extremely grateful for my supportive spouse...I wouldn't be in school full-time, much less exploring this option without him.
Oh...in the spirit of St. Valentine's Day...I give a little geek love, for I am a geek, married to a geek, studying like a geek, and I think being a geek is one of the most fabulous thing ever.
Location: SinglePost