Greetings from Edinburgh!
The city is getting busier and busier every day with the arrival of tourists in preparation for the Fringe Festival! I’m really looking forward to seeing all the amazing performers this year. I’ve already booked tickets for a few shows, which is giving me something to look forward to while I’m in the throes of my dissertation!
As I’m writing this report, I’m nearly finished with my dissertation. My official submission date is August 6, and I can’t believe how fast the time has gone by! It’s been an incredible experience conducting research and working with my supervisor and the SRS Department (Social Responsibility and Sustainability) here at the University of Edinburgh. This process has been uplifting and rewarding in so many ways and has helped me determine the types of careers I’d like to pursue. Speaking of which, I’m also diligently applying for jobs in the sustainability sector! I’m interested in working for a variety of organizations that prioritize sustainability, but since my research has focused on sustainability in universities, I’d find it very interesting to work for a university’s sustainability department!
While I’ve been focused on my dissertation, I managed to sneak a little fun in this month, too! I had a delightful time visiting with Rotarians from Washington, D.C. (thank you to Jackie and Ken Grigor for a wonderful evening!), litter-picking with the Rotaract Club of Edinburgh and the Friends of Burdiehouse Park, and enjoying a fun evening Rotary meeting at McClaren’s on the Corner. I also took advantage of the opportunity to watch the World Cup matches, and let’s just say I’m now a soccer (or is it football?) fan!
Unfortunately, I don’t have many photos to share from July - truthfully, I have spent most of this month either in my room or at the library working diligently on my dissertation! I’m looking forward to enjoying a relaxing few weeks in August taking in everything that the Fringe has to offer. More updates and photos to come!
Cheers! Ashton
