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Q: What is the administrative structure at Dalkeith House?
A: The administrative team will be comprised of a Resident Director of Operations, a Resident Director of the Academic Program, an Assistant Director and an Assistant Director-Catering. Following is the contact information for each member of the administrative team:

Patricia (Patty) Watters, Resident Director of Operations
Email: patty.watters@googlemail.com
Office Phone: 011-44-131-663-5632
Cell Phone: 011-44-789-113-9856

Gary MacDonald, Resident Director of the Academic Program
Email: macdonal.gary@uwlax.edu
Office Phone: 011-44-131-663-5632
Cell Phone: 011-44-789-157-5885

Jamie Churchill, Assistant Director (June 15, 2009-December 15, 2009)
Email: churchill.jamie@yahoo.com
Office Phone: 011-44-131-663-5632

Kevin Churchill, Assistant Director-Catering (June 15, 2009-December 15, 2009))
Email: papercollarkevin@yahoo.com
Office Phone: 011-44-131-663-5632

Drew Lukes, Assistant Director (January 9, 2010 - July 9, 2010)
Email: drewlukes@gmail.com
Office Phone: 011-44-131-663-5632

Seth Boettcher, Assistant Director-Catering (January 9, 2010 - July 9, 2010)
Email: boettchers@uwstout.edu
Office Phone: 011-44-131-663-5632

To find out more about each member of the administrative team, please click on "Current Faculty/Staff Biographies" under the "Resources" section on the left side of this website's home page.

Q:What will my address and telephone number be in Scotland?
A:  Wisconsin in Scotland Program
      Dalkeith House
      Dalkeith, Midlothian
      EH22 2NA Scotland

      STUDENT/PAY PHONES:
      011-44-131-660-4065
      011-44-131-654-1416
      011-44-131-663-9740

      DALKEITH HOUSE OFFICE: 011-44-131-663-5632

      FAX: 011-44-131-654-0320
      (£1.50 for the first page and 75 pence for each additional page, free to receive)

      REMINDER: There is a six-hour difference in the time.
      (9:00 p.m. in the U.S. is 3:00 a.m. in Dalkeith!)

Q: What documents should I have to facilitate going through customs?
A: You will need your passport and your Student Visitor Letter for the UK Border Agency from the WIS Administrative Office. (However, if you are doing an internship, you will need to obtain an Adult Student Tier-4 Visa prior to your departure.) Your Student Visitor Letter for the UK Border Agency will be included in a packet of information which will be sent to your permanent address before your departure. It is recommended that you make a copy of your passport and place the copy in a different location than where you have your original passport. The copy will expedite the process if you should misplace your original and need to obtain another.

Q: Who are the other students in the WIS program this session?
A: We will include a list of students participating in the same session and the campus where they registered for the WIS program in the packet of information you will receive prior to your departure.

Q: What form of transportation is provided from the Edinburgh Airport to Dalkeith House?
A: If you would like to take advantage of airport pick-up service provided by the WIS program, you must arrive at the Edinburgh Airport by the designated time. See the "Important Notices" section on the right side of this website's homepage.

Q: Why was it necessary for me to submit four photographs with my application?
A: You are required to have a photograph on file with a copy of your application in the WIS Administrative Office. The other photographs will be sent with your original application to the Resident Director of Operations in Scotland. You should bring at least two extra photographs with you for identification purposes and for the various discount cards offered to students.

Q: Should I have an International Student I. D. card?
A: Yes, purchase one from the Office of International Education/Programs on your home campus, if possible, or you can purchase one in Scotland at The University of Edinburgh.

Q: Will I have to work in the House while in Dalkeith?
A: Yes, all WIS participants are required to contribute four hours per week. You will receive details regarding work assignments from the Resident Director of Operations during orientation week.

Q: Is there a damage deposit?
A: Yes, there is a combined damage and cooperative work deposit required in the amount of $100. You should pay this deposit in the Office of International Education/Programs on the campus where you registered for the WIS program before you leave for Scotland. Any unused amount will be refunded when you return to the U.S. The Resident Director of Operations will review the House rules with you.

Q: Will I need to stop at my home campus before I leave for Scotland?
A: There is no requirement that you stop at your home campus before leaving for Scotland. However, be sure you take care of Financial Aid forms before you go!

Q: Did I get all the classes I wanted?
A: Scheduling has been completed and most students received their first choices. (Note: If you did not receive one of your first choices and you need the class to graduate, please speak to the instructor upon your arrival at Dalkeith House.) Your individual class schedule will be included in the packet of information you receive from the WIS Administrative Office prior to your departure. If you need to register for your classes at your home campus prior to your departure, it is extremely important that you register for the classes listed on the schedule in your packet. Your individual class schedule will be sent to the campus where you registered for the WIS program.

Q: What is the add/drop procedure for courses in the WIS program?
A: You will have an opportunity to change your schedule at Dalkeith House. The Resident Director of the Academic Program (semesters) or the Resident Director of Operations (summer) will handle this process.

Q: Where do our textbooks come from?
A: Students are required to obtain (purchase, rent, borrow, etc.) the necessary textbooks for the U.S. course offerings they will be taking. It will be the student's responsibility to bring the textbooks with them and/or obtain them prior to the first day of classes. Required textbook information can be found by clicking on "Courses" under the "Resources" section on the left side of this website's homepage. Textbooks for British course offerings will be available for use at Dalkeith House. (There may also be additional expenses for special courses such as art, photography, field trips, etc.)

Q: What library facilities will be available?
A: There is a very limited number of books at Dalkeith House. Library work can be done at Dalkeith Library and the Central Library of Edinburgh; both allow students to check books out. The National Library allows books to be used on the premises only. Please check with the Resident Director of Operations regarding what arrangements have been made to use The University of Edinburgh library. Academic resources are also available on the Internet.

Q: Can I take an educational course at The University of Edinburgh?
A: Courses are expensive and inconvenient, because of the daily travel (the 6-mile bus ride can take 30 minutes or more). Working out a schedule between classes at Dalkeith and Edinburgh is difficult, but it can be done.

Q: What should I pack?
A: Pack light! A large rucksack is practically indispensable for travel and it can be used as one piece of luggage. Waterproof outer wear is essential. Bring clothing that can be layered; Dalkeith House can be drafty at times. Indoor swimming pools are in the area, so a swimsuit would be appropriate. Bring some lightweight clothes, if you plan to visit Greece, Spain, etc. Good walking shoes/boots are a priority, especially for females since they are harder to purchase there.

The atmosphere at Dalkeith House is quite relaxed. There are occasional "dressy" affairs, but only one or two "dress" outfits are needed. Females may want to bring one or two skirts/dresses or nice slacks and flats (some mix and match items), since the Scottish women dress up on weekends (more upscale casual). Males may want to bring a jacket and a tie or two.

Many students recommend slippers for walking around the house. In addition, bathrobes and shower shoes are nice when walking to and from the community bathrooms.

In terms of electronic items, we ask that  you do not bring equipment with American voltage, however, laptops/i-pods/cameras are fine and usually have a voltage transformer/converter built into the power cord. You will need a plug adapter so that your plug fits into the wall. Plug adapters must be grounded, have a 13 volt fuse, and have the CE mark on the unit. Approved adapters will be available for purchase at the House for £2 upon arrival. You will not be allowed to use adapters that do not comply with these guidelines. With so many people using their US laptops in an electrical system built for a UK electronics, it is very important that good quality, fused adapters are used. If you require a hairdryer, hair straightener, or curling iron, there are several at the house that can be checked out for use during the semester, or you can purchase them in the UK. No, no matter what type of converter you purchase from the US, it will not hold up and it will end up blowing fuses (or worse), thus American appliances other than laptops/i-pods/cameras cannot be used in the house.

For a more extensive packing list, click here.

Q: Should I bring blankets, sheets, pillows, towels, etc.?
A: Yes, bring towels and sheets (we recommend flannel) to fit a single bed. You will be furnished with a polyester (not down filled) duvet (comforter), a blanket, and a pillow.

Q: What specific personal items should I take?
A: Contact solution, if you are partial to a certain brand. Personal hygiene products are readily available (unless you "have-to-have" your brand). Note: Remember to check the transportation security administration website for up-to-date information (see *).

Q: What transportation is available in Dalkeith and Edinburgh?
A: Bus and taxi. The bus ride is the least costly and usually takes about 30 minutes to go into Edinburgh. You will be issued bus tokens you can use throughout your session. Transportation by train and plane are also available from Edinburgh.

Q: Is it possible to stay at Dalkeith House after the end of the semester?
A: Yes, you may stay at Dalkeith House for £20 per person per night room charge providing this does not conflict with other programming. Please consult with the Resident Director of Operations at Dalkeith House regarding your plans. A charge of £20 per person per night includes bed, sheets, and towel (no washcloth). Payment must be paid in pounds sterling or in sterling traveler’s checks and is to be made upon arrival. A self-serve breakfast is also included when program food service is in operation.

Q: What meals are served in the meal plan?
A: Breakfast items will be available seven days each week on a self-serve system, with the exception of scheduled holiday periods.

Lunch/Dinner: During summer session, lunch will be served Monday through Thursday.

During the semester programs, eight meals (lunch/dinner) will be served Sunday dinner through Thursday lunch.

Limited kitchen facilities are available and there is a small area for individual food storage. No personal meal preparation will be allowed during days and times when group meals are being offered.

Q: If personal belongings are shipped ahead, how should they be addressed?
A: Address them to:
     Your Name (Note the session you are attending - Summer, Fall or Spring)
     Wisconsin in Scotland Program
     Dalkeith House
     Dalkeith Midlothian
     Scotland EH22 2NA

Note: Students have experienced problems receiving packages from home that were shipped via UPS. There is a new policy that customs must require information from the individual if they have any suspicions. Packages that come through the postal service have been delivered with no problems.

Q: What type of clock should I bring with me?
A: A travel alarm would be best; do not bring an electric one!

Q: How accessible are email and the Internet?
A. High speed Internet allows for ready access to email and instant messaging as a main means of communication. There are several personal computers available at Dalkeith House. While high speed Internet allows users easy and efficient access to online resources, WIS policy forbids downloading, online gaming or transference of large amounts of data as it has an effect on the speed of Internet.  Additionally, students are not able to add software applications or save documents to the hard drives on the program's personal computers.  Student data is most easily saved on zip discs which students purchase on their own.  High speed wireless Internet is also installed in one of the main common areas of the house, allowing all who choose to bring a laptop access to online resources.  If student laptop computers are equipped with the appropriate conversion power cord, students will only need a British 230 volt adaptor attachment.

Q: How can I call home and what type of calling cards work best when phoning home?
A. You will be issued a basic pay-as-you-go mobile phone for use during the program. You will be responsible for setting it up and adding credit to the phone. One great thing about the phone is that all incoming calls are free, so your family and friends will be able to call you directly. For more information on phone tariffs check here and here . There are pay as you go plans that would be fine for your needs. It is your decision what you would like in terms of a plan. Don't worry, once you arrive you'll get a sheet explaining your options and how to get set-up. Your number will be assigned by the phone company when you set it up on the weekend after you arrive (there will be time set aside for this on Sunday).  Please be aware that if friends and family plan to call you from their US mobile phones, it is likely that they will have to call their cell phone companies to set up an international calling plan.

International prepaid calling cards purchased in the U.S. do not work on the phones in Dalkeith House. While AT&T and MCI calling cards work well, most students find it easiest to purchase British Telecom (BT) phone cards from the local establishments. The BT phone cards have a very good rate and are easily purchased. However, keep in mind that the BT cards DO NOT work in countries other than Great Britain. Therefore, if you plan on calling home from mainland Europe, an "emergency" AT&T or MCI phone card is recommended.

Q: How much money can I expect to spend?
A: As usual, this depends on your lifestyle! Food is generally more costly than in the U.S. (some fast food places with lower prices and some fancier places with higher prices). You can buy food at the local supermarket, or you can buy fast food at local shops. You can also buy pub lunches or suppers. Clothing varies from inexpensive to very expensive. Plays and concerts are generally less. A play will cost four to twenty pounds although, with student concession, most plays are reasonably priced. Most museums are free or have nominal rates for students. Bring a money belt with you. The average budget for Dalkeith House functions will be included in the packet you will receive before your departure.

Q: Should I buy notebooks and paper here or there?
A: Buy them there. They are heavy to pack, and the cost is quite minimal for a 200 leaf notebook in Dalkeith.

Q: Should I buy a rail pass before my departure to Scotland?
A: You should do some research. Unless you have definite travel plans, former students recommend that you not purchase a rail pass before you go. Campus Travel (a student travel agency in Edinburgh) has excellent travel deals for students as do many other agencies in Scotland.

Q: Will I be assigned a "host family" while in Scotland?
A: Because all students enrolled for the semester are required to live at and attend classes in Dalkeith House, a very significant and rewarding component of the WIS program is the host family program. Past students have found that an opportunity to get to know a local family enhances their understanding of the Scottish host culture. While each host family is unique and does different things with their students, participants do not live with the family but are often invited for meals, occasional outings to local points of interest or other family activities that allows interaction with individuals outside the program. Lifelong friendships between students and host families often develop. The host family program is only offered during the fall and spring semesters. If a student has indicated on their "Admitted Student Information Form" that they want to participate in the host family program, every attempt will be made to assign one to them. (Note: If you have questions regarding the host family program, please contact your Study Abroad Coordinator before making a final decision. If you check “no” and then later decide you would like a host family, you may not be given one.)

Q: Are health clubs available in Scotland?
A: There are health clubs in Edinburgh and surrounding communities; there are none in Dalkeith. However, there is an exercise room in the basement of the palace with free weights and a television with several aerobic tapes. Weather permitting the trails are a great place to run or walk on.

Q: Where can I get a youth hostel card?
A: If you intend to use the extensive youth hostel network (dorm like housing at very inexpensive rates) in the United Kingdom and Europe, wait and buy your card in Scotland. They are less expensive there. If you have a sheet sack, bring it.

Q: How close is the nearest golf course? Is there much time for golfing?
A: The nearest course is one-half mile away from Dalkeith House. With respect to time for golfing, this is a very personal item and depends upon your course load, your study habits, and the weather.

Q: Are there any special facilities at Dalkeith House?
A: There is a computer lab equipped with software for word processing. You should bring zip discs with you if you plan to save work. You cannot save any programs or documents on the hard drive. High speed Internet and PowerPoint are available.

The estate on which Dalkeith House is located is pastoral living at its finest. There are several nature trails, fishing, the adventure park and all sorts of animals: sheep, cattle, horses, ponies, pigs, goats, pheasants, and fox, just to name a few. There is also a full time ranger service.

Q: Can I go camping?
A: In spite of Scotland's often inclement weather, students have enjoyed camping in Scotland and in Europe. Enthusiasts might consider bringing sleeping bags, cookers, or even a compact tent. The program has purchased several tents that can be checked out. Equipment can be rented at several locations in Edinburgh.

Q: Is there a local sports rental shop?
A: Dalkeith does have a mountain bike rental shop. Also, bikes can be rented from the House.

If you want to bring your bike over, you can check it as a piece of luggage. Mountain bikes are incredibly expensive there, even the used ones.

Q: What kind of debit/credit cards can I use abroad?
A: The best advice is to bring a debit card (preferably VISA) from an account that will be kept supplied with money. Several banks in Dalkeith do not charge an extra fee for extracting money from ATM's with a debit card and they give the best exchange rate. Past students agree that the debit card is the easiest, fastest and best money saving form of receiving money in Britain. If your debit card doesn't work, you'll want another option. MasterCard and VISA are widely accepted; American Express is not. Credit purchases sometimes offer the best available rates of exchange.

Q: What amount of funds should I bring in travelers checks?
A: Students are advised to bring some funds in travelers checks (about $200) in case of an emergency or if your debit/credit cards are lost or stolen. Students often get charged a cashing fee and, with a low exchange rate, the amount received is substantially less than expected.

Q: Can I get $50 cash exchanged at Customs and, if not, then where?
A: All airports have an Exchange Bureau which is a convenient place to make a small exchange. You can cash your international traveler's check free of charge at the American Express office in Edinburgh.

You can exchange it all immediately (if the exchange rate is at a high point), or just exchange small amounts (if the rate is not good when you arrive).

Q: What is the exchange rate?
A: The exchange rate changes almost daily.

Q: How many gifts can I bring back?
A: The duty-free personal exemption is $800.

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