Edinburgh Napier University

“Many of my relatives and friends recommended studying here”

I chose to study Festival and Event and Hospitality Management at Edinburgh Napier University because I am passionate about the events industry. Edinburgh holds many world famous events which makes it an ideal place to study events and hospitality.

Also, Edinburgh Napier has a good reputation - many of my relatives and friends recommended studying here because of the friendly atmosphere created by students and teachers.

I have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience, I have practical classes during which I worked as front of house and kitchen staff in the Apprentice restaurant at Edinburgh College. I could put knowledge into reality, I managed the night with five other classmates, so I had the understanding of a real restaurant operation.

“I have met a lot of friends”

“Last year, I set up the Napier University Chinese Society”

Last year, I set up the Edinburgh Napier University Chinese Society with other Chinese students. We have attracted a lot of students, both Chinese and European.

 As the vice president, I am not only focused on money planning and handling, I am also responsible for the design of all the publication and advertising materials. I also organised activities for our members, for example, we collaborate with the International Society. 

“I like how there are no neon signs and buildings blocking my eyesight so I can see the blue skies”

Edinburgh is a very artistic city. It is very new to me since I grew up in a city where I could only see skyscrapers and packed buildings. I like how there are no neon signs and buildings blocking my eyesight so I can see blue skies, and how easily I can find a park to sit down and relax. I am happy with the transportation in Edinburgh - I can go anywhere easily by bus and on foot.

The food here is amazing! I can buy western ingredients in the supermarket which are very expensive in Asia. I can learn more about Scottish culture by trying their food.

The biggest challenge I have faced when I first came here was being afraid of making friends. Easterners and westerners have different cultures so I was afraid of breaking someone’s culture or taboos. Luckily, my course mates and flatmates were very friendly so I could integrate into the culture more easily.

“I am the Event and Marketing Coordinator for the Edinburgh Student Art Festival”

I undertook a two-month internship with Clan Gluten Free. I was part of a small team that organised the first Gluten Free Burns Night Supper in Edinburgh. It was an interesting cross culture experience that I benefitted from and enjoyed working with different people.

I am now the Event and Marketing Coordinator for the Edinburgh Student Art Festival (ESAF). I help promote ESAF events and liaise with artists. I can see myself working in this kind of field or have my own business in the future.