Well where do I start? It has been an amazing year for me, when I think back to our first week and I remember how nervous I was, meeting new people and learning new skills (such as trying to find my way around Edinburgh) I could never have done it without the help of you guys especially Marieta and Vesy. In my home town I am quite the extrovert believe it or not. However, when you move away from your own safe environment to a new City for the first time it can become a daunting experience, especially if you have lived in Airdrie.

Moving to Edinburgh has been the best experience of my life, not only because of the friends I have made, but also because I have gained a sense of independence finally at the grand old age of 26!! I hear you all laugh but I’ll have you know I have been doing my own washing for the past month!! (Ok the last week but it’s a start). But seriously, each class mate has opened my eyes to their individual cultures and backgrounds from the Latvian dance contest to the German way of life, and each classmate has helped me in some way even if they do not realise it. Kind words of encouragements have forced me to keep trying and never give up.

Last week one of my class mates told me he was so proud of me and he saw a huge difference in me since the beginning of the course, at the time I laughed it off, but actually when I thought about it later I felt quite proud. I know I still have to improve in various areas (grammar and spelling) but I have noticed an improvement in my essay writing (I don’t know about the rest of you but when I came here I had to learn English grammar and I am still learning) even computer skills, I mean last year I honestly did not know how to switch a computer on. NO JOKE!!! Now I can even create power point ha ha. These things might seem trivial to every one else but for me I feel it is a big achievement. I would not be where I am today without the help of each teacher, I couldn’t ask for better teaching methods every one of you have been very helpful and you have given me confidence for University. Simon I totally agree with you on the Maths thing (he he) John you are great but every time I walked to the first floor my skin broke out in blisters lol. I can’t forget to mention Joe; you are an incredible teacher, even though I wish I had completed the Investigating Europe class in the second semester, as I feel I would have had more knowledge in writing academically and I would have chosen a more serious or interesting subject to investigate.

Overall I don’t think the college needs any improvements. The facilities are great and the teachers are very understanding.

I’m going to miss you all

Nadine xx