Nivan Mamak

2nd Year of 5 year BVM&S - India

What made you decide to study abroad instead of your home country?

The course abroad is much better organized with much more hands on work than back home. The degree is also recognized and accredited by many more countries including my home country.

What made you decide to apply to The University of Edinburgh and The R(D)SVS?

Initially, it was the amazing ranking and good things I had heard about the university. After I attended the interview day however, I kind of fell in love with the place. Maybe it was the vibe, the amazing presentation, the friendliness of the staff or a combination of the above.

What stands out in your mind from your experience at Edinburgh and studying Veterinary Medicine so far? 

I enjoy the practical sessions that are an integral part of my degree the most. We get to go to the vet school’s sheep farm, teaching horses and dairy farm and learn hands on how to work with these animals right from first year.  The best non-academic part about studying in Edinburgh is actually living in Edinburgh itself which is an amazing experience. The city is small enough to be able to walk almost anywhere and big enough for you to find new places to explore almost every day.

Has Edinburgh become your home away from home?

Definitely. Edinburgh is very welcoming and has a big student community and plenty to do for all kinds of people. Night outs, days in, quaint restaurants, quirky pubs it has a bit of everything. I come from a city with more than 46 million people, it's surreal to be a part of this quaint 500,000 city.

Was it difficult to transition into life in Edinburgh and studying abroad?

It is definitely different from back home. It wasn't necessarily difficult so much as a lot of new things to learn and take in. It's funny but I suppose you get used to wherever you are at the moment. Even now, when I go back home, I miss my life in Edinburgh but when I come back, I miss my home.  

Have your EMS placements helped to shape your studies so far?

All my EMS placements have definitely been the highlight of my course so far. All the practical hands on experience is what I came here to do and I'm quite happy with the way I've done so far.

What activities have you got involved in outside of your studies?

Lots, the university had all kinds of clubs and societies and I personally am a part of the Baking Society, the Veterinary Student Council and am a student ambassador for the vet school. I swim regularly near where I live and meet a bunch of people to play board games with almost every week. 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?

Honestly? Anywhere and everywhere. The degree is accepted in so many places, I can apply to the USA, Canada, Australia, South Africa, Europe, even the UK itself or back home in India. I'm not going to limit my vision and I would love to visit and live in new places.

If you could give one piece of advice to any prospective students thinking of applying to the R(D)SVS, what would it be?

You're about to make the best decision of your life, get ready for a ride!

How would you rate the staff support?

It's pretty amazing. Especially at the vet school where one could say we're hidden away from the main university. All the staff are so kind and helpful, everybody is approachable and most of our lecturers are pioneering researchers in their fields.