Off to drink (and work) with the Scottish she goes

My former best friend N, who has become more of a real friend to me again over the past couple of months because we had to do a lot of work together, came over today because she had asked me to help her prepare for an interview for an apprenticeship/studying grant.

She originally applied for this very popular system of being an apprentice, while also attending classes at university at the same time, at the company’s headquarters based in Germany. Her application was rejected but they offered her a place - well, not so much the actual spot but the opportunity for an interview - at the company’s Scottish headquarters. I know, Scottland, of all places! - right?

However, I am really excited about this because for some reason when I think Scottland I automatically think Ireland and in my head both are about the same thing as far as landscape, language and national quirks go. I am aware that that may upset true Scotts but, I’m sorry, that’s the way I feel and besides, it’s more a compliment, really, than anything else.

Because when I think Ireland, I think of a wild ocean, an open sky, gorgeous cliffs and endless plains. Ireland, in my head, equals beauty. Ergo, Scottland is a beautiful, magical place.

When N thinks Scottland, she thinks Scotch, drinking games, pubs. She thinks grey cities, oil rigs, chemicals. Which is fine, I guess, because that’s what she’s looking for: a future job in the general field of anything chemical and this apprenticeship combined with studying is her perfect chance.

Thing is, her English is not the best. When I say that, I really mean this: she has trouble putting together an actual sentence and while she’s not bad at all at understanding written texts in English, she will have trouble getting through a whole interview. I have wondered whether it’s a smart move to even consider applying for this thing because if her English isn’t good enough for an interview, how is she going to manage university classes in English? I have told her this but at the same time I encouraged her to go through with it. It’s definitely worth a try and, after all, when in life will one ever get a chance like this again?

Going off to Scottland when you’re first moving away from home? Sure does sound like the perfect dream to me.