Student - Annalie

Geography (BSc Hons)

Why did you apply to Insights?

I applied to the Insights Immersion Programme because I had never experienced anything like it before, nor had I ever had the opportunity to travel in this way. I saw it as a unique chance to step outside my usual environment, explore new professional settings, and challenge myself in unfamiliar situations. With limited previous exposure to workplaces abroad, I knew this programme could offer something truly different, and it did. It gave me the chance to grow, learn, and gain experiences I otherwise wouldn’t have had access to.

What advice would you give to future participants?

Explain your Insights experience. 

During the Immersion Week in June I visited different alumni at their workplaces across Washington, DC. In very different employment sectors. These included the World Bank Group, the Center of American Progress which is a think tank, the Pew Charitable Trust, the US National Security Administration and Google. 

We also had a tour of the US Capitol, led by a previous Congressman and a networking event with many of the alumni from our workplace visits as well as other University of Edinburgh graduates in the local DC area. 

What did you learn?

Throughout the programme, I learned a great deal about myself, the professional world, and how to navigate it with confidence. I gained practical skills in networking and communication, developed a deeper understanding of different career paths, and learned how to adapt to new environments. I also discovered the importance of being open-minded, asking questions, and actively listening to others’ experiences. Most importantly, I learned that growth often happens when you step outside your comfort zone and that I’m more capable and prepared for the future than I previously realised.

How have you benefited from the experience?

I have benefited immensely from the Insights Immersion Week in several ways. Professionally, I gained valuable skills like effective networking, communication, and adaptability that will help me throughout my career. Personally, the experience boosted my confidence and broadened my perspective by exposing me to new cultures and working environments. The friendships and connections I made have created a supportive network I can rely on. Overall, the programme has given me clarity about my future goals and the motivation to pursue them with greater determination.

How will this experience influence you and/or your choices in the future?

This experience will significantly influence my future career choices by giving me clearer insight into what different industries and roles entail. Having seen firsthand the variety of professional environments and heard directly from people working in those fields, I feel better equipped to make informed decisions about the path I want to take. The skills and connections I gained have opened new possibilities, and I now feel more confident exploring opportunities that align with my strengths and interests. Ultimately, this programme has helped me approach my career with greater clarity and purpose.