Senior Anne Herb is embarking on an exciting adventure this fall, trading the Seattle skyline for the historic charm of St. Andrews, Scotland. Anne has committed to studying astrophysics at the prestigious University of St. Andrews, a decision fueled by a desire for a unique academic experience.
Herb explained that even though she had never visited the U.K. before applying, she has always dreamt of international travel, “When I was eight, I asked my mom if I could move to Australia by myself,”
Herb’s application experience was extensive; she applied to 17 universities in the United States and six abroad. The application process for the U.K., Herb explained, was surprisingly streamlined through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). “It’s one application for all five universities,” she noted, “with one essay and your teacher recommendations sent centrally. It felt quicker than the Common App in some ways.”
A recent visit to St. Andrews solidified her decision: “I did a tour… and then I did the administrative days on April 5th and committed that same day because I loved it.” The university’s significant international student population, with 40% being from outside the U.K. and 20% being American, also contributed to her comfort and excitement.
The academic structure at St. Andrews offers a contrast to the typical U.S. university experience. As a four-year Scottish institution, it allows for greater flexibility in the first two years. Anne plans to pursue astrophysics alongside Spanish and potentially mathematics or computer science. St. Andrews students are not limited to the major they applied to. Like Herb, students can study two or three different subjects simultaneously before declaring a major at the end of their second year.
While anticipating the logistical challenges of moving abroad – navigating plane and train travel, establishing a bank account, and obtaining a new SIM card – Anne is confident and ready for independence. She explained, “I think it’ll be a great opportunity to be independent and learn how to function as an adult human being. I even have to file for my own visa.”
This type of independent travel isn’t new for Herb; last summer, she partook in a six-week service trip to Costa Rica through the Amigos organization.
More than the academic rigor or the stunning location of St. Andrews, Herb is most excited about the people she will meet there: “I love engaging with people and hearing stories and learning about different cultures,” she shared. “I’m so excited to be in such a diverse place with people from all over the world.”
