There are many ways you can continue your learning and development outside of your academic studies. Studying at university is not just about lectures, tutorials and studying in the library and laboratories. While these academic aspects are important, you can also learn many new skills outside of the classroom. Learning opportunities You may find opportunities to learn and develop through: part-time work volunteering a representational role, such as being an official Class Representative for your class or subject area internships during your summer holidays work placements international experiences, such as studying or working abroad From volunteering in Edinburgh to a work placement in Glasgow or an international experience in Paris, we have lots of opportunities you can consider. We will support you as you get started and will let you know about the funding options available to help. Part-time and vacation jobs for students Student Volunteering Service Internships and work experience Studying or working abroad Benefits The learning experience you have outside of the classroom is incredibly valuable to employers. It gives you new insights, widens your frame of reference, develops your skills, and helps to show you have the initiative to try new things and take on new challenges. Skills you can develop through learning outside of the classroom include: planning, coordinating and organising problem-solving assertiveness initiative adaptability communication and people skills working by yourself and with a team Each of these skills will be of huge value when you come to apply for your first graduate job and beyond. Funding for opportunities abroad Some opportunities, such as international experiences, have a cost attached. We offer a number of bursaries and fully funded opportunities for international experiences, work placements and internships. Each year in October we will get in touch with you to tell you more about the available opportunities and to guide you through your application. Contact us Dr Neil Speirs Widening Participation Manager Student Recruitment and Admissions Contact details Email: neil.speirs@ed.ac.uk Web: Profile page Contact us through an online sign language interpreter British Sign Language (BSL) users can contact the University of Edinburgh via Contact Scotland BSL, the online British Sign Language video relay interpreting service. Find out more on the Contact Scotland BSL website This article was published on 2025-03-03
