Kelly Chung, Taiwan
Kelly Chung first arrived in Glasgow to study for a M.Sc in Pyschological Studies at the University of Glasgow in 2007. She now works as a Research Assistant for the Academic Unit of Mental Health and Wellbeing in the University's Institute of Health and Wellbeing.
What brought you to Scotland?
I first arrived in Glasgow in September 2007 specifically to study for a M.Sc in Pyschological Studies at the University of Glasgow. The course was accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), which really attracted me. I completed my studies in 2008 and graduated in 2009.
I had never been to Scotland before so what I knew of the country was learned from films like Braveheart. My vacancy was listed on the University’s internal website and, luckily, I got the job after going to the interview. My department includes around 50 people but the University employs around 2,000 - it’s one of the largest employers in the city.
What were your first impressions of the city?
Glasgow is very different from home. Whether it is weather, culture, food or fashion, but one thing Glaswegian and Taiwanese people have in common is their friendliness.
There are always places to visit in and out of the city. The west end is very much like a university town and the rent is often up to £100 less each month than you would find in other parts of the U.K.
Have you seen much of Scotland since you’ve been here?
The Isle of Bute is beautiful, I’ve travelled there on the ferry and I’ve been to all the big cities like Aberdeen and Edinburgh. They are all very nice. The Edinburgh Arts Festival is amazing.
Since I’ve moved here I’ve started cooking a lot more. I’ve gotten used to having butter in lots of food. The Scots have a sweet tooth and like to eat sweets a lot. Soup too, I have really started to like all kinds of soup. Especially in the winter.
What advice would you offer someone thinking of moving to Scotland?
I chose to come here and it was entirely my decision. I didn’t know anyone, but my advice to anyone thinking of coming here would be to keep an open mind and embrace everything. Scotland is a very friendly place to be.