EDINBURGH-"An American in Scotland" just doesn't have the same ring. And for good reason: The culture shock felt by an American in Scotland is minor, especially compared to other European destinations where even the language is different.

Still, studying abroad this semester in Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, I find that I have to get used to many aspects of Scottish culture. Despite the accents, it was not difficult for me to become immersed in the country's wonderful culture.

Edinburgh is a gorgeous European city with antique architecture nestled in the north of Great Britain, where unlike Boston, temperatures rarely fall below 30 degrees.

Student life is quite different. Doing homework on any given night is a rarity. Consequently, Scottish students rarely buy books, taking them out of the library, instead. Reading lists are ridiculously long, and professors do not expect you to read all the books on them. Seventy percent on a test or paper is still an A.

Pub culture takes precedence over pop quizzes, so Edinburgh pubs are always packed. Most Scottish students go out at least three school nights a week, and there are at least two pubs on every block, each with its own entertainment, mostly up-and-coming bands, but the occasional karaoke session is a staple, too.

Edinburgh's culture has greatly impacted the patterns of my social life-less class and more fun. Before this semester I could never have imagined myself going out until 2 a.m. on a school night.

Restaurants also contribute to Edinburgh's cultural identity. Haggis, a traditional Scottish dish, includes the organs of a sheep cooked in the lining of its stomach. The Scottish also fry everything they eat, and I'm not just talking about their signature fish and chips.

A fried pizza with an after-dinner dessert of a fried Mars bar (a Milky Way-like candy bar) isn't an unusual meal. Healthy eating is almost impossible, and salads, at least in the winter, are very hard to come by.

If you do order vegetables in a restaurant, they will usually come covered in oil. It's no wonder Americans do not usually favor Scottish cuisine.

Most American films come out later in Scotland; Ray premiered only two weeks ago. Students' general taste in movies is also different-it seems big-name movies do not get good reviews in the university newspaper.

I have had the opportunity to witness some of Scotland's national celebrations, including the Robert Burns suppers that take place throughout January.

Burns was a famous Scottish poet whose nationalist writings are still a treasured part of the country's culture today. Men will usually dress up for these celebratory dinners in kilts where haggis will be served. The meal is followed by the ceilidh, a traditional Scottish dance.

The people here are friendly, and while some harbor typical stereotypes of Americans, I have not met any hostility.

Above all, I love being in the center of such an active city with a unique culture. Studying in Scotland has been one of the great and unforgettable experiences of my life.