Working and living in Scotland

Having the right training and skills is essential to getting the job you want. But for International Students, working and studying in any country in the world, an awareness of your host country's working and social culture and excellent language skills is a must.

Even if you are from an English-speaking country and things in Britain seem similar to home, you may quickly find that similarities in language and culture may only be superficial.

This part of the seminar is designed to provide you with information about:

• Preparing to live in a new country
• Cultural awareness - what it is, why it is important and how to become more culturally aware
• The importance of good language skills and practical ways in which you can improve them
• What language skills and cultural awareness mean for ‘Finding Work' and ‘Getting an Offer'

What's it like to live in Scotland?

Starting university is an exciting and stimulating experience—even more so if you choose to do it in a different country. It can also at times be challenging, difficult and even frightening. The best way to deal with the harder parts of a life abroad is to be prepared and have a few ideas of what to expect before you go.

The British Council offers useful information to help you prepare for living in Scotland: www.educationukscotland.org/ and www.britishcouncil.org/scotland.htm

For general information about studying and working in the UK, visit: www.educationuk.org/

UKCOSA, the Council for International Education, has produced a leaflet which will help you to prepare for and cope with any feelings of ‘culture shock' you might have. Their website also contains other useful advice and information for International Students coming to the UK.

‘What next?' contains a reading list with references for various types of books which will help you become more familiar with Scotland before and after your arrival.