Yes, collegiettes™, it’s true: the University of Glasgow is the real-life version of Hogwarts.
Classes started on Monday. Since I am only taking three here (equivalent to a full course load of 15 credits), I didn’t think it would be too difficult to register.
Boy, was I wrong.
I spent hours figuring out what classes I could take. The process is confusing as a study abroad student; I had to seek approval from specific departments to take upper level courses, check with my advisor back home to verify that the credits would count toward my major and finally figure out my weekly schedule. Even though I am a junior, I am considered a first year student here, which makes it difficult to register for anything except basic courses (hello, Film 1A?). I also discovered that each class is only offered at one time, and the degree programs require specific courses with little to no flexibility. Thankfully, everything worked out!
If you are preparing to study abroad in a direct enrollment program, make sure you can take the courses you want. Here are some questions to keep in mind when registering:
- Is the course open to visiting students?
- Will this course count toward my major/minor?
- How many credits will transfer? (Here at Glasgow, courses are normally 20-30 credits each, and students take 60-65 credits per semester.)
- How similar is the degree program? (Ex. film production vs. film studies)
It may also help if you submit a transcript after you have fully completed the semester before you leave. The transcript that you attach with your application doesn’t include your current classes, which may prove you’re qualified to take upper level courses abroad. Trust me, that one semester can make all the difference!
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Rumor has it that the architecture was J.K. Rowling’s inspiration for Harry Potter’s famous school. What do you think?