Unsurprisingly, a week in a MSc Global Migrations & Social Justice's student life will depend on many factors as one can think, but I will try and cover aspects of my routine I would have been interested to know before coming here. For that, I prefer to focus on types of activity rather than a day-to-day description. 

Studying

First, there is study time. This surely takes a good chunk of my days, as Sociology related majors tend to be heavy-reading with some dense texts. Each class will probably have two or three readings with 20-45 pages, and I personally need at least three hours to complete that. Of course, I could just skim them and take less time but, well, what would be the point in taking the class and not thoroughly engaging with it? That being said, this is all anyone can do when assessment deadlines are close, so I try and make the most of the times I am able to properly engage with the classes' preparation material.

Classes

Second, there is classes time. In my case, three two-hour classes per semester divided in three days, but that depends on which courses you pick. For example, it is very common for people to have two classes in the same day. On this activity, I can only recommend you choose your classes more out of interest than timetable, you will definitely thank yourself for that when assessments are coming. Also university is not all about studying - so make sure you enjoy your time before or after classes with colleagues and friends.

Chores

Third and very briefly, every other day I will do my groceries. I prefer that to larger, more spaced purchases mostly because there is a supermarket right around the corner from where I live. Another important thing to consider is how much physical space you will get to store your groceries, in my case not much as I share the flat with three other people. 

Leisure

Fourth and perhaps most importantly, there is leisure time. I try to create tiny bits of that throughout the week to not overburden myself with study on weekdays nor pull at the pressure of having fun on the weekend (spoiler: I often fail!). What is important to me is having some time off, which I will do by playing some mobile games, having short walks around the city, going to parks, pubs or anywhere the plans take me. Something I constantly do and feel very good about is walking to a different direction in sunny days, this awarded me some unexpected sights and ticks off my tourist bucket list. Glasgow can be very hilly, but you won't mind after a while.

Well, this is not exactly a "week in my life" but sure comprises a big deal of my routine and I hope you can benefit from one or two things from my experience.

All photos in this blog are attributed to João Pedro Casanova

First published: 20 March 2025

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