Perched on the East coast of Scotland or, as some would say, “in the middle of nowhere”, our small town may appear to be somewhat isolated. Therefore, if you would describe yourself as a 'party animal', constantly hungry for hectic nights out and big clubs, then I’m going to hold your hand while I say this, but I fear you’ve come to the wrong place.
However, despite being a town with a population of just under 17,000, in my three weeks here I’ve learnt that in St Andrews it is impossible to be bored. Whether it be ceramics painting, dog walking, club nights, balls, sports events or even festivals, our small town has you covered!
Credit: Lara Benedetti.
What first drew me to St Andrews was the sense of community. I wanted a place that would feel like a home away from home and friends that would become family. There is something comforting about living alone for the first time in a town where being off the beaten track is nearly impossible. Walking to lectures, you inevitably run into your neighbours, friends, academic parents, and siblings, who smile and wave, or stop to ask about your day. Something about this natural closeness brings me a unique sense of happiness.
Of course, on the flip side, you leave your house in your pyjamas for a 6am fire drill and the cute boy from the pub is standing right outside. Or, you’ll be talking rather loudly, realise other ears are listening and, before you know it, it’s an “Overheardrews” Instagram post. Nevertheless, these all make for hilarious stories once you overcome the initial embarrassment.
Nothing in town is more than a 20-minute walk away. However, if (like me) you have not yet bothered setting up the university’s Eduroam connection on your phone, you will know how patchy service is in town. This makes it a little harder to find your way round, particularly in your first week.
Case in point: My friend and I, on a mission to find the Library, stomped up and down all of the three main streets for 15 minutes, determined to find it on our own. We didn’t stop laughing for a second, and I can now locate the library independently!
Credit: Lara Benedetti.
The St Andrews bubble fosters a tight-knit community and encourages collaboration and support. As a fresher, I can’t imagine how daunting it must be trying to make friends in a big city like London or Manchester.
I visited London this past weekend and am convinced that I covered more distance walking from one tube to another than I do going from ABH to Sallies. A particularly chaotic Oxford Street made me realise how lucky I am to step out of lectures and enjoy a stroll home with a brisk breeze and a sea view. Rather than being a drawback, this distance from the rest of the world allows us to focus on the things that matter— education, friendships, good coffee and personal growth. A refreshing, and in my case much-needed, break from the metropolitan disorder.
It is ridiculous to hear people say that our bubble renders us ignorant about the outside world. Especially with the latest news available at our fingertips, it is our responsibility to remain aware of the realities past St Andrews. However, meeting people from different countries and walks of life, a global community in the sanctuary of a small-town setting, is an incredibly enriching privilege. It breeds a true community culture and makes us feel connected to the legacy of our cherished customs such as pier walks, academic families, raisin, formal dinners, and dips in the North Sea that are all part of what makes St Andrews - St Andrews.
Remember that it is a bubble, not a cage, and that we are not secluded or isolated unless we wish to be. If we navigate our time here open-mindedly, the St Andrews bubble can be a solid and stable launching pad for an informed, compassionate, and socially aware generation of young people. As I reflect on my first few weeks in St Andrews, I say... embrace the bubble!
Credit: Lara Benedetti.
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