My journey as a Saltire Scholar began when I came across an advert for the programme in the University of Dundee newsletter. What followed was nothing short of life-changing. The Saltire Scholars Programme not only offered me an incredible internship but also provided an opportunity for personal and professional growth. I built lasting friendships, gained invaluable professional skills, built my confidence and expanded my network in ways I couldn’t have imagined.
From the outset, I was captivated by the scope of opportunities available. The diverse range of internships—spanning Canada, the United States, London, and locations across Scotland—was truly remarkable. After careful consideration, I applied for three overseas placements and was thrilled to secure an internship with the White House Historical Association (WHHA) in Washington, D.C., during the summer of 2022.
Though I was initially apprehensive about travelling to the U.S. for the first time, my nerves were quickly put to rest. Connecting with fellow interns who were also heading to D.C. helped ease the transition, and navigating the city together made the experience even more enjoyable.
During my internship, I had the privilege of leading a flagship initiative to identify presidential statues around the world and coordinate annual wreath-laying ceremonies at these sites on Presidents’ Day. My role involved liaising with U.S. ambassadors across countries as diverse as Mexico and Australia, sourcing a florist capable of global delivery, and preparing press materials to amplify the initiative’s impact. This project directly aligned with the WHHA’s mission to preserve and promote the White House’s legacy.
One of the most rewarding moments came after my internship, when I attended the inaugural Presidents’ Day wreath-laying ceremony in Edinburgh on Calton Hill. The event, attended by the U.S. Consul General of Edinburgh and WHHA President, was a powerful reminder of the impact of my work. Seeing this annual tradition continue to flourish since its inception in 2022 has been deeply gratifying.
My relationship with the WHHA did not end with my internship. I was honoured to be invited to join their Next Gen Leaders programme, a group of young professionals committed to advancing the association’s mission. This role has enabled me to remain actively involved with the organisation and participate in extraordinary experiences. Since becoming a Saltire Scholar, I have been fortunate to receive numerous opportunities to deepen my connection with the White House Historical Association. Most recently, I returned to Washington, D.C., to attend the launch of the People’s House—an interactive, free museum that reflects the WHHA’s mission—following an invitation from the First Lady, Dr Jill Biden.
These ongoing ties have allowed me to build strong relationships with fellow Next Gen Leaders, remain actively engaged with the WHHA’s cause, and continue to grow both personally and professionally. My two-month internship was far more than a summer placement—it laid the foundation for my career, deepened my passion for history, and strengthened my commitment to meaningful causes.
I cannot recommend the Saltire Scholar programme highly enough. The opportunities it has unlocked for me, both personally and professionally, have been truly extraordinary. For anyone considering applying, it is an experience you will never regret.
