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In conjunction with Go-Global initiatives, 30 students from our Malaysia campus representing all programmes and schools participated in a 2-week study tour to the Edinburgh Campus during Weeks 4 and 5 of the January Semester (4 – 16 February 2024). This study tour aims to allow students to experience studying and living in Edinburgh during the winter season.
Their arrival was warmly welcomed by Heriot-Watt Malaysian Society (HMS), who then led them to a campus and library tour, showcasing the incredible and well-equipped facilities available for the students.
On the second day, the students were greeted by Global Head of Student Life, Campbell Powrie, at the Main Reception of Edinburgh Campus. Moving on to the next agenda, the students partake in the HWU Chaplaincy Public Lecture titled “Transhumanism - Making Better Humans” by Professor John Wyatt.
The students were treated to an exclusive welcome session hosted by the Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Richard Williams. Joined by former Heriot-Watt Malaysian Society (HMS) officers, they had the privilege of meeting Professor Richard Williams, fostering a sense of connection within the Heriot-Watt community.
In addition to the Principal and Vice-Chancellor, the evening was also attended by university officials, including Samantha Kane, Global Director of Student Experience and Academic Registrar, Campbell Powrie, Global Head of Student Life, Jane Howitt, Chaplain, Steve Watson, Global Student Office Manager, Peter Scott, Student Visa Compliance Manager, and Sandy Tan, Senior Manager of Student Life at the Malaysia Campus.
This gathering underscored the university’s commitment to providing holistic support and guidance to students and building a long-term relationship between students from Malaysia and Edinburgh campuses.
As the students enrolled in the class sessions according to their majors and courses, a Welcome Session from MACS was conducted, which was joined by Dr John Philips for MACS students, Dr Matthew Dunnigan for EPS (E&E) students, Dr Greame Bowles for EGIS students, and Dr Andrew MacLaren for SoSS students.
As the study tour ended, the students returned to Heriot-Watt University Malaysia with hearts full of memories and minds enriched by newfound knowledge and experiences. Reflecting on their journey, many expressed gratitude for the memorable experience they had at the Edinburgh Campus.
“This 2-week study tour gave me a short and sweet glimpse of what it’s like to study and live in Edinburgh. The beautiful city, the people, the weather, the vibes, all made it such a wonderful and enjoyable experience. I am so grateful to Heriot-Watt for giving me the chance to visit Scotland, and cheers to the Edinburgh campus for being the most welcoming!” said Ema Arisya Binti Mohd Azahar, a Year 3 Statistical Data Science student who is one of the participants of the 2-week study tour in Edinburgh campus.
The President of HMS, Yong Yung-Ling, also expressed his gratitude and excitement throughout the event: “We’re grateful for the vibrant energy and cultural exchange our 2-week transfer students brought to the Edinburgh Campus. We hope these shared moments become cherished memories, and we look forward to future reunions, fostering lasting connections between our community at Heriot-Watt University.”
The two-week study tour at Heriot-Watt University’s Edinburgh Campus was a life-changing experience for the 30 students from Heriot-Watt University Malaysia. Through a blend of academic rigour, cultural immersion, and professional development, the journey expanded their horizons and deepened their appreciation for the global community of scholars and learners.