Muthukrishnan’s journey from Singapore to the University of Edinburgh

Muthukrishnan’s story begins at the Singapore Management University (SMU), where he is currently a full-time student. Having lived in both Singapore and India for much of his life, he was eager to broaden his horizons and explore life beyond his home country. “I wanted to immerse myself in Scottish culture—its food, festivals, and the people,” he says, speaking of his decision to participate in the University of Edinburgh’s exchange program.

As a final-year student, Muthukrishnan is studying within the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences (CAHSS), but he’s also tapping into the Informatics Department. “The University of Edinburgh is pioneering the AI industry,” Muthukrishnan explains, “and being part of the Informatics Department gives me the chance to learn from industry leaders and gain hands-on experience with some of the most pressing issues in AI, like the ethics of facial recognition.”

Muthukrishnan’s academic journey at Edinburgh has been a unique and fulfilling experience. Unlike the more structured approach he was accustomed to at SMU, the University of Edinburgh has given him the flexibility to shape his own academic path. “At Edinburgh, you get to choose your own research question and dive deep into both primary and secondary research,” he shares.

Being an international student has come with its own set of challenges, but Muthukrishnan has found the experience overwhelmingly positive. “Accommodation and transport are easy to manage, and with fewer courses compared to my home university, it’s been easier to balance studies with student life,” he notes. Edinburgh’s compact city layout makes it easy for him to explore, and he enjoys how the University is so well integrated into the city itself. “It’s amazing how you can go to class and, just by walking, find yourself in different parts of the city—there’s always something new to see.”

But it’s not just the academics or the city’s charm that have made his time at Edinburgh memorable. The university’s international student support has been a key part of his experience. “The international student relations team organises events that bring people from all over the world together. It’s a great way to meet new people and share different perspectives,” he says.

Coming from Singapore, a country rich in cultural diversity, Muthukrishnan has embraced the opportunity to learn more about Scottish traditions. While he notes that there haven’t been many significant cultural differences that have impacted him, he’s enjoyed exploring Scotland’s distinct culture—especially its festivals and food.

One thing he wishes he could share with other students? Chinese New Year celebrations. “In Singapore, Chinese New Year is one of our biggest festivals. It’s a time for family, food, and festivities. I think celebrating it here would help students from other countries learn more about the culture,” he explains. And when it comes to food, Muthukrishnan proudly champions Singapore’s beloved chicken rice—a simple yet flavourful dish of roasted chicken and fragrant rice.

Reflecting on his journey, Muthukrishnan has one key piece of advice for anyone considering studying abroad: “Pick a university and a country that genuinely interests you. It should be a place where you want to be, and perhaps somewhere you’ve never been before. That way, the experience becomes even more enriching.”

For him, the decision to come to Edinburgh has been a rewarding one. From the academic opportunities to the cultural exchanges and the friendships he’s formed, Muthukrishnan’s time here has been a highlight of his academic career.

Muthukrishnan’s journey reminds us that studying abroad isn’t just about academics; it’s about immersing yourself in new cultures, perspectives, and ways of thinking—an experience that will stay with you long after the classroom doors close.

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