Student review [#12326] for Persian Studies
at The University of Edinburgh

I studied Persian Studies (though I wish they’d get rid of the ‘studies’ ha ha, makes me seem like a loser) at Edinburgh university. Honestly… I had the time of my life! My university experience started with me changing from classics to Persian Studies – so damn easy to change it, and I’m so damn grateful they did! My halls were great – they were called Deaconess if you’re wanting to know!
Extracurricular was really what made my time there – I was an integral part of the mountaineering society. Climbing mountains every weekend, baby! I also got very into climbing, something I will take with me for the rest of my life. Some examples of the places we went are Ben Nevis, and other famous mountains. My favourite trip has got to be when we went to The Breacon Beacons – not only did we have some sick ascents (and descents, man!), I got some life long friends from that.

Now, on to the Persian Studies. This is an excellent degree. It ranged from intensive language learning (including a year in Iran) to middle Eastern History, to Iranian film. The department is very small, so it felt as if we were really looked after. I will carry on developing my Persian language, and learning about the Middle East for the rest of my life.

On top of studying the core degree, at Edinburgh you study an outside course – this means you get to study something completely different to your degree. For example, if you study maths, you can take french. Or, if you study biomedical sciences, you can take a course in the history of art. If you study Nursing you can take a course in Islamic history 1B from the successor states to the gunpowder empires. Amazing. While this seems like a great idea, I found it frustrating; it was hard to concentrate on this outside course, and it was in such little detail that it seemed pointless.

As part of my degree, I got to do a 10,000 word dissertation. This was an excellent opportunity to do my own research, and really understand what academic life is like. I delved into original sources, understanding the minds of early 19th century Iranians. Great times! Miss it.

And now – onto the city of Edinburgh. By Jove! What a place. Stone, beautiful houses on every corner, this great cradle of academic reason exudes elevated glory; from it’s the tiniest wynd to its grandest thoroughfare. Nothing brings me greater joy gallantly striding up Arthur’s seat in the early hours of the morning, the dawn light striking the noble spires, to reach the top and look across the city of Edinburgh. My city.

In conclusion, highly recommend.

Give it a go!

Especially Persian Studies!