After a life-changing trip to the UK from her home in Mexico a decade ago, Iliana Hernandez Valdivia was determined to return and fulfil her dream of studying abroad.
And after a year of hard work and determination, Iliana, 27, can say her goal has been achieved as she celebrates her graduation at the University of Aberdeen.
Iliana receives her MSc in Cultural and Creative Communication this week, after a year studying at the School of Language, Literature, Music and Visual Culture.
She says: “Since the first time I visited the UK more than 10 years ago, I always wanted to return. When I decided to apply for my Master's degree, studying in Scotland seemed the perfect way to fulfil two dreams.
“The Cultural and Creative Communication programme offered by the University motivated me to move from Mexico to Aberdeen. When I read the purpose of the subject, I knew I wanted to attend those lectures since my goal was to learn more about audience design in the cultural sphere. What I loved about the programme was the possibility of integrating different classes from other areas as I wanted to upskill my creative and cultural studies with applied knowledge from the business and law schools.
Making the move from Mexico to Aberdeen marked the start of Iliana’s dream to live and study abroad. And though it came with challenges along the way, she wouldn’t change anything about her experience.
“Studying in Aberdeen has been an experience that has taught me a lot about myself, especially being an international student and coming from a country that is significantly different, starting with the language and the climate.
“My first day in Aberdeen is an experience that I now recount with great amusement, but at the time it made me realise that being so far away from home and having to learn to figure out things that I did naturally back home, was going to be a process of re-learning the everydayness of life.
“As a student, I couldn't be more grateful. I had outstanding lecturers and met extraordinary people that, even if we no longer see each other every day, I will always treasure. Another thing I loved about Aberdeen was how it made me feel very fortunate to have so many resources and learning opportunities, including a social media internship with the North of Scotland KTP Centre. It was a dream.”
Making the most of University life, Iliana threw herself into the international community in Aberdeen. And when she was missing home, she was able to spend time with the University’s Mexican Society, of which she was Vice President in her first term and President in her second.
Reflecting on her experience in Aberdeen she says: “I think my favourite memory is the first time I saw snow. In Mexico the weather is totally different, so a snowfall like the ones that happen here is something I had never experienced before.
“I was living in Hillhead and when I looked out the kitchen window, everything was covered with snow. I went out to walk around as much as I could and was fascinated by how surreal and gorgeous everything looked.”
Iliana is thankful for all the support she has received along the way that has helped propel her to this moment.
“It feels amazing to finally be graduating. Studying abroad is something I always wanted, as I was very interested in being part of a context where I could have perspectives from other places in the world. Of course, I couldn't be more grateful to my family, especially my mum, because she has always supported every dream I had, no matter what, and my sister for her unlimited kindness.
“Graduating and having the opportunity to celebrate with my favourite people, feels like the best way to keep reaching for new dreams!”