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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 and a Resident Assistant Director (former WIS student). Following is the contact information for each member of the administrative team:

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

      Dr. Robert (Bob) Hendricks, Resident Director of the Academic Program
      Email: hendricksr@uwstout.edu
      Office Phone: 011-44-131-663-5632
      Cell Phone: 011-44-789-157-5885

      Mr. Andrew (Drew) Duggan, Assistant Resident Director (August 1, 2007-December 17, 2007)
      Office Phone: 011-44-131-663-5632     

      Ms. Meghan Byram, Assistant Resident Director (January 15, 1008-July 12, 2008)
      Office Phone: 011-44-131-663-5632      

To find out more about each member of the new 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
      Scotland EH22 2NA

      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: When will I receive my airline ticket?
A: If you are departing on the optional group flight, a representative from Carlson Wagonlit Suntime Travel, LLP will meet you at the Continental Airlines ticket counter at the Minneapolis/St Paul International Airport with your ticket. (If your outbound date of travel is scheduled for another date, your airline ticket will be mailed to you.)

Q: What are baggage limitations?
A: Continental Airlines will allow you to check two pieces of luggage weighing no more than 50 pounds each with linear dimensions (length + width + height) not to exceed 62 inches per piece. Significant additional charges will apply for luggage weighing more than 50 pounds or with a total linear dimension of more than 62 inches. Please ensure that your name, address and telephone number appear on the inside, as well as on the outside, of all checked luggage.

You can carry on one bag plus one personal item per passenger as long as it weighs less than 40 pounds with linear dimensions (length + width + height) that do not exceed 45 inches.  It must fit in an overhead bin or underneath the seat in front of you.  Following are some examples of personal items: male or female purse; briefcase; laptop computer (all laptop/computers must be carried aboard and cannot be checked); camera case; items of a similar or smaller size to those listed above, such as Portable Electronic Devices.

Be aware of the new liquids policy. Each person is only allowed a limited amount of liquids in their carry on. Liquids brought from home or purchased before reaching security must be in containers of 3 ounces or smaller encased in a single quart-size, zip-top, clear plastic bag. If these specifications are not met, you will be asked to leave the liquid(s) at the security checkpoint.

The following additional items are okay to carry on and don't count towards your allowance: food items for immediate consumption; mobility devices such as wheelchairs, crutches or canes, provided passenger is dependent on them; one box or bag of duty free merchandise; a coat or jacket; an umbrella; one item of reading material.

Please check the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) website for up-to-date information on what is allowed in your carry-on and what must be checked. This website provides a comprehensive list of permitted and prohibited items for your review.  Remember to check it just prior to your travel for your final packing needs, to make sure you are carrying items within current permitted security regulation guidelines:

* http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm

Q: What documents should I have to facilitate going through customs?
A: You will need your passport and your letter to immigration officials from the Program Director. Your letter to immigration officials 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: What should I wear to the airport?
A: Casual clothes.

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

Q: What form of transportation do we take to arrive at 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 airport before 9:00 AM on Thursday, January 31. A bus will be waiting to meet students for departure to Dalkeith House at 9:00 AM. (Note:  This means departing the U.S. on January 30.)
 
The official check-in time at Dalkeith House is between 10:00-11:00 AM on Thursday, January 31.  If you arrive prior to 10:00 AM, you can drop off your luggage, but you won't be able to check in until 10:00 AM. Dalkeith House cannot accommodate any arrivals prior to that time. Therefore, if you arrive earlier, you will need to make your own accommodation arrangements.
 
NOTE: ALL STUDENTS MUST BE AT DALKEITH HOUSE AND CHECKED IN NO LATER THAN 11:00 AM ON THURSDAY, JANUARY 31.

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 Program Director's office. The other photographs will be sent with your original application to the Resident Director in Scotland. One will be retained with your original application at Dalkeith House, one will be posted, and the other will be used to obtain your bus pass. 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 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 are enrolled in the WIS program before you leave for Scotland. Any unused amount will be refunded when you return to the U.S. The Resident Director 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 class schedule will be included in the packet of information you receive from the WIS Administrative Office before your departure. If you need to register for your classes at your home campus before your departure, it is extremely important that you register for the classes listed on the schedule in your packet. Your class schedule will also be sent to the WCWC Offices of International Education/Programs.

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 will handle this process.

Q: Where do our textbooks come from?
A: Beginning Fall Semester 2008, students will be required to obtain the necessary textbooks for the UW 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 on the WIS website under course descriptions. 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 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.

Hair dryers, curling irons, electric razors, and other U.S. appliances will not operate without plug adapters and (usually) voltage converters. (Note: Voltage converters rarely work well.) We recommend renting hair dryers and curling irons at Dalkeith House for a nominal fee or purchasing them in Scotland. Clothing irons will be available for use at Dalkeith 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 a bus pass you can use throughout the 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 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: Although expensive, 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. Dalkeith House has a computer lab equipped with personal computers and Ethernet connections at four laptop stations.  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 lab 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: What calling cards work best when phoning home?
A. 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. However, if you are interested in acquiring rail tickets, contact Carlson Wagonlit Suntime Travel, LLP as soon as possible. Rail passes can still be issued before your departure and delivered to you at the airport with your airline ticket. (Note: The Brit-Rail and Euro Rail passes cannot be purchased outside the U.S.) However, if you are unsure of your rail needs, Carlson Wagonlit Suntime Travel, LLP can process the passes for you after your session begins and mail them to you at Dalkeith House. Campus Travel (a student travel agency in Edinburgh) has excellent travel deals for students.

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.

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 one of your two pieces 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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