Lucy Reading

2nd year

Lucy, from Brighton in England, is studying British Sign Language (Interpreting, Translating and Applied Language Studies).

What made you choose Heriot-Watt University?

I chose to study at Heriot-Watt because of the opportunity to study a unique British Sign Language interpreting and translating degree, at a leading research institution with incredible teaching staff. I also loved the look of Edinburgh as a city as well as the nature on campus. I solidified my choice of university after visiting for both the open day and the offer holder day, where I got the chance to chat to current students on the same programme and some of the teaching staff as well, who answered all my questions about the course and university life.

How did you find transitioning from high school to university?

After sitting my A level exams at college, I spent the summer working full time and travelling with friends. I think the transition can appear daunting at first, especially as the last weeks of summer approach, but it is comforting to know that when you arrive at university, everyone is in the same boat as you. I stayed in halls of residence, and my friends and I were very open to talking about feeling homesick, which helped me feel less alone, as well as sharing pictures of our hometowns with each other. The most beneficial thing I did to settle in was to go to the city centre for the day by myself and explore all the places I had researched prior to moving. This helped me feel more connected to my new city surroundings and helped me recognise that I can do things that may appear scary independently.

How did you find settling in at university?

Settling into university is a very different experience for everybody. For me it was not too difficult as I stayed in regular contact with my family via facetime and threw myself into the welcome week activities with my flat mates. This included tried new foods, sports, clubs and nights out! As important as it was to make new friends and build connections, I found it very beneficial to my own wellbeing to take time out of each day to go on a walk round campus by myself, to check in with my emotions and to process the massive life change that university can be.

What extra-curricular activities have you gotten involved with?

At university, I have been involved with many clubs. I am a coach for the cheerleading club which is so fun, and is a great way of staying active and making friends while on campus. There are recreational and competitive opportunities, which have taken me to many new places too! I am also a member of the signing society, which again is a fun social group focussing on learning BSL and is open to all students. I would recommend getting stuck in with a sports or recreational club, especially in first year, as it is a great way to try something new and socialise with people in other year groups and courses. The student union also has plenty of jobs available which is a great way of learning new skills and meeting new people. I have met so many new people working at the bar and café in the student union!

What’s was it like living on campus?

Living on campus is super convenient, especially as Oriam and the student shop are within close walking distance! I stayed in George Burnett Halls which was a great way to ease into independent living, as there is continual support from cleaning staff and ResLife for any queries you may have in halls. It can be loud and chaotic, but they are a lot of fun. There is a strong community feel, especially as, in my time there we had a whole hall group chat which was very active and helped me feel more connected to the people I was living with. The day and night buses also run to campus which makes travelling home from nights out a lot safer. There is also a security team patrolling campus at all hours.

Where are you living this year? What’s it like?

This year I am living with three of my friends close to the city centre. The free bus travel scheme makes this very convenient for both exploring the city and commuting to campus. I really enjoying staying in the city as I find it easier to balance university work and my down time, although I would recommend staying on campus in first year!

What’s your experience of living near Edinburgh?

I love living in Edinburgh. It is a beautifully vibrant city and there is always lots going on. There is a large student population, and the city feels very safe, even at night-time. I was nervous to relocate to Edinburgh from Brighton as it is such a long way, but I love it here so much that I think I will stay in Scotland post-graduation. In the city centre I attend dance classes, church groups, climbing centres and Deaf community spaces, such as BSL pub quizzes and cinema screenings. There is also a lot of nature surrounding the city which is easily accessible and can be a good break from university life.

Did you travel home often?

As a ‘rest of UK student’, I received the £1500 bursary in my first year, which is aimed at giving financial freedom to visit home while at university. I used my bursary to travel home for the winter and Easter break, but also for my mum and for some friends to visit Edinburgh via plane, coach or train.
 

What advice would you give to someone looking to move away from home for university?

I would recommend moving away for university. The move has given me more confidence, resilience skills and helped me discover more about my personal identity, as well as finding new friends! Moving to university can appear daunting, but everyone is in the same boat, and you will find you are capable of much more than you think you are. Make sure you are studying something you are actually interested in and be open to new experiences. However, you know yourself best, so do what will make you feel happy and fulfilled, wherever you end up studying. Good luck!