Staff Spotlight - Emma Bowman
For this month’s Staff Spotlight, we caught up with our newly appointed Foundation Apprenticeship and Schools Programme Coordinator - Emma - to see what makes her tick and to find out what she would do if she won £1 million on the lottery!
Let’s start off with introducing yourself.
I’m Emma Bowman. I’m 27 years old and I’m from Perth.
What is your role at Perth College UHI?
I started my role as Foundation Apprenticeship and Schools Programme Coordinator in September 2019, and I am really loving it so far. A large part of my job is to recruit students onto Foundation Apprenticeships and School/College Partnership programmes. I also work with the key stakeholders involved with the Foundation Apprenticeships, including: schools; local employers; and colleagues from Skills Developing Scotland (SDS) and Developing the Young Workforce (DYW). It’s really exciting to develop new partnerships for the benefit of young people.
What’s the best part of your job?
I love that every day is different - there is huge variety and there is always a new challenge. Meeting pupils, school colleagues and employers who give great feedback about our School College Partnership programmes - including Foundation Apprenticeships - is really inspiring. I also enjoy visiting schools to spread the word about the opportunities available at Perth College UHI for young people.
How you have progressed your career?
I can say from experience that there is ‘no wrong path’. I think this is a really important message for young people, and for anyone at any stage of their career and learning. When I left school, I didn’t have any idea what I wanted to do. After completing a Geography degree at Newcastle University, I moved into sales and buying for a retail company. More recently, I worked in Perth College UHI’s Marketing Team before running a Language School. I’m delighted to be back at the College within this newly developed School/College Partnership Role.
What advice would you give to kids who are struggling in school?
If you’re struggling at school, it can be difficult to take that first step to speak to someone you trust. However, once you have, you may find that it takes a huge weight off your shoulders. Whether it be a guardian or parent, guidance teacher or any member of school staff - these people can help you find solutions. Speaking to them is great first step to finding ways to make things easier and a path that’s right for you.
If you’re at school, and on a course at Perth College UHI, there are additional support networks in place and several ways of getting additional help and advice. Speak to your lecturer for more information.
What might people be surprised to know about you?
Most of my friends know this already, but I’m a huge animal lover. I love spending evenings and weekends out riding my horse, or walking the dog. It’s good for the soul engrossing yourself in a hobby you’re passionate about - even if sometimes mine means I have to get up early and go outside whatever the weather!
If you had to eat only one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Fajitas – best food ever!
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
I’d love to learn how to sing (in tune). At the moment, it’s only done in private or around friends and family – yes, it is that bad.
Favourite holiday destination?
I love Italy, it is just so beautiful.
What chore do you absolutely hate doing?
Putting the washing away is hands down the worst chore.
If you were a super-hero, what type of powers would you have?
Mind reading would be useful!
First thing you would do if you won £1 million?
Donate to Diabetes UK and British Liver trust.
Who, or what, inspires you?
My other half, friends and family. All for different reasons.
At work, I am really inspired by our students. When I worked in the Marketing Team, I interviewed a large number of people to find out why they decided to come to College. Some of the stories really are amazing and so inspiring. From school pupils, to degree students, to mature students - the College really does have something for everyone.
What is the best advice you have ever received, and who did it come from?
This quote by the late Stephen Hawking has always stuck with me. “Remember to look up at the stars and not down at your feet. Try to make sense of what you see and wonder about what makes the universe exist. Be curious. And however difficult life may seem, there is always something you can do and succeed at. It matters that you don't just give up.”
