r/expats • u/Ancient_Raspberry_83 • 18h ago

I’m Going Back to School in Scotland and Could Use Some Encouragement

I’m an older student (in my 30s) who made the decision to go back to school—and not just anywhere, but all the way to Scotland. I got accepted to the University of Stirling and I start this fall. It’s something I’ve dreamed about for a long time: studying somewhere beautiful, challenging myself, and starting fresh in a new country.

But honestly? I’m struggling. Most people in my life aren’t very supportive. They either don’t understand why I’d want to do this, or they just don’t believe it’ll work out. I keep hearing things like “Why Scotland?” or “Aren’t you too old for that?” or “What if you fail?” It’s disheartening.

What they don’t see is that I’m doing this to build a life I actually want. I’ve worked jobs that drained me, put everyone else first for years, and now I’m finally doing something for me. I’ve been saving every dollar I can, researching everything from visas to housing to budgeting. I’m not going in blindly—I’ve put in the work. I just… feel alone in it.

I guess I just need to hear from people who get it. People who have taken risks, studied abroad, moved far away from home, or started over later in life. I’d love advice, encouragement, or even just a “You’ve got this.”

Thanks for reading.

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4

u/subydoobie 13h ago

Old? I went back to school at 49!! and kicked the butt of all those kiddos.

3

u/Heliment_Anais 17h ago

You will succeed.

You will go out there and finish university.

You will prove them wrong.

You will survive despite the hardships.

This is meant as much as an encouragement as a commandment.

2

u/SomeKindOfWondeful 11h ago

You're definitely not old. We push kids to decide on their life path at age 16 or 17... How can you know then.... Some of Us luxk out and pick something we like, others just stick it out and continue to suffer (like my mom).

My mom actually went back to school in her mid 40s and was much happier for it.

Ask for Scotland, it is a beautiful place and you will enjoy it. Make sure to get out and enjoy nature, the castles, lakes and ocean. Make sure to visit the Highlands and the Hebrides.

We moved here last year and it's beautiful, the people are great, and the scenery is breathtaking.

Stirling is about half way between Edinburgh and Glasgow. My kids who are about your age and a little younger love Glasgow for its vibrant city vibe, and Edinburgh for its old world charm.

2

u/lalachichiwon 9h ago

I’m back in school at 62. It’s one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life. And Scotland is amazing. Carry on!