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Pedro Rivera
Name: Pedro Rivera
Age: 34
Born: Venezuela
Lived in Scotland: Since September 2007
Pedro first came to Scotland in 2002 to study for a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) at Edinburgh University Business School.
After graduating in 2003, he got a job through the Scottish Network International's (SNI) work placement programme at the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).
"After a year, I went back to my country but decided to migrate back to Scotland in 2007 (on the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme, now under the points-based immigration system Tier 1).
"Although I had to take a step back in terms of career progression, that's only natural because of the differences in working patterns, culture and demographics. Once you adapt and improve, especially your language skills, you can gradually start regaining that progression."
Pedro kept in contact with colleagues from SEPA and when he returned to Scotland he had the opportunity to work with them again.
"If it wasn't for my previous relationship with SEPA I think I would have found it harder to get a suitable job."
The Rivera family was fortunate to be able to stay with friends while they looked for accommodation.
"Having studied here, we had local references we could check out. Relocation tends to be expensive especially due to the cost and difference in the exchange rate. But once you start working and get used to the prices and alternatives it gets easier."
Would you recommend relocating to Scotland?
"Yes, Scotland is an incredible place to live and people are fantastic. If you're thinking of relocating my advice would be check that your skills match the jobs available in Scotland's specific labour market, network as much as possible, especially the with people relevant to your career. It's even better if you've studied in Scotland and obtained a degree from a Scottish university. Get to know the culture, the history and the weather – lack of sunlight can be a problem for some!"
Pedro says there have been many highlights so far.
"It's a really multicultural, open society with lots of historic sites and places. I've really enjoyed being able to work on emerging issues and trends in my job of Senior Policy Officer at SEPA."
He recommends doing as much research on Scotland as you can before you think about relocating.
"I looked for the standard of living, crime rates, education available, current issues faced by local society and read some news. For university, I searched for international rankings and comments from previous students. I found most information on the internet and also at my local British Council office."
Related links
Scottish Networks International 
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