UMass Boston – Glasgow Caledonian University PreMedical ExchangeAmbassadors

How were our ambassadors chosen?Each student constructed a Wiki page with an essay that detailed why they should be chosen, what it would mean to them if they were chosen, and how they intended to keep up with school work if

chosen. Additionally, each student participating in a question and answer session with representatives from the Student Success Desk, in which they had to explain the significance of the trip and how they would represent UMass Boston. The ultimate decision was made by member of the Freshman Success Communities, who voted for the ambassadors.

Day 1 Our first day in Glasgow was a success! Even after missing our connecting flight in Heathrow, we were able to make it to Glasgow before noon, and were able to explore the city, its shops, and even the River Clyde. After meeting Julie, Shona, Nabila, and Jack in the airport, we took a shuttle to the GCU campus and checked into our hotel. We all got settled in and we were able to walk around pretty freely. The fact that everything is genuinely green is probably the coolest thing to see.

--Cassandra

Day 2

Day 3 Today, we were able to go see Loch Lomond in the Scottish highlands. The weather held out, and we were able to go right on the shores of the loch. Pictures don’t do it justice, but the view was absolutely amazing.

Day 4We learned a lot at the University of Glasgow’s Museum of Anatomy. We were given an assignment to do; a sort of ‘treasure hunt’. The museum had some very interesting exhibits and there were jars of preserved fetus. We spent the rest of the afternoon wandering the grounds and campus of the University of Glasgow. The campus was amazing; it felt like we were at Hogwarts getting ready for our first game of Quidditch.

--Nikhil

Day 5Thursday was our final day of shadowing the GCU students in their classes, which was a bit disappointing because their lectures and lab were really cool. We got to see Julie in action during one of her tutorials which was quite informative; we learned about catalysts and enzyme based reactions.

--Frankie

Day 6Today is Saturday, and we traveled to Edinburgh Castle! The train ride out to the highlands was about an hour, and then were able to see the city! We walked the Royal Mile, all the way from the castle down to the palace. Edinburgh is absolutely beautiful; all of the architecture is Gothic. We were even able to visit a cathedral from the Middle Ages. We even got some final shopping done in Scotland’s historic capital.

--Bhumi

Day 7This trip has been one of the most memorable experiences of my life. So many beautiful places, so much to see, but so little time. I would like to thank the hosts at Glasgow Caledonian University for their hospitality. The students were the great group of people that made us feel at home with care and kindness all throughout the trip. Although I am sad to leave, I know that a friendship was established. I speak for all the ambassadors when I say that we can’t wait for these group of students come to see us on our side of the world.

--Nicole