Alumni Spotlight - Susan Allan
Did you know that you can study for a qualification at Perth College UHI through distance learning? This method of study allows you to learn without having to attend regular classes on campus – meaning you can study where and when you want. Whilst still working full-time, Susan Allan decided to do a course via this route, and proudly graduated this summer 👏😃🎓
Tell us a bit about yourself
I am 28 years old, and from Inverness. I currently work full-time as an Accounts and Payroll Administrator, and had previously finished secondary school around 10 years ago.
What course did you study at Perth College UHI?
When did you graduate?
August 2020.
How did you hear about Perth College UHI?
I heard about Perth College UHI, when I was looking through the University of the Highlands and Islands website for a distance learning Administration course.
What were you doing before you came to Perth College UHI?
I had been working full-time and felt that the time had come to get back into studying for a course which would benefit my future.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
I had always wanted to do Administration. When I was studying Administration in secondary school, the teacher that I had was not very supportive. This became apparent when I achieved a Standard Grade level of 4. I knew I could do better than this, if given the support which should have been available. Therefore, it is one of the reasons I picked this course.
What was your favourite thing about the course?
My favourite thing about the course would be the variety of units that I was able to study. One of my weakest areas would have to be using spreadsheets. Since completing the spreadsheet unit, and now having a full-time job which deals with spreadsheets on a daily basis, I am more confident with what I am doing and understand it a lot better. The tutors are fantastic and, for any queries I had, there was always someone on hand to help me.
Were there any stand out/memorable moments from your course?
The most memorable moments would be each time I was graded with a pass on the Tutor Marked Assessments and Tests. I had been out of secondary school for 10 years and was worried that I would ‘forget’ how to to study again and would fail everything. I am so glad I persevered and applied for the course, as I now know that if you really put your mind to it, anything is possible.
What was a typical day at college like?
As I was studying through Distance Learning, a typical day for me would be working 9-5pm, having dinner and then getting my head straight into the books in the evenings throughout the week. I would make sure to have the odd night off, so as to not overload my brain with too much information but also allow myself to still have some free time at the weekends. Breaks from study time are very important to keep your mind engaged.
What was the best part of your day?
I would say the best part would be completing a task and sending it off to the tutors for marking. I was always keen to get feedback on my work - no matter if it was good, or if there was room for improvement.
What did you like about the campus?
As I studied through Distance Learning, I never got to see the campus unfortunately.
What did you think about the styles of teaching, and the support you received from staff?
The style of teaching and the support from all staff - tutors, and administration staff - was fantastic. All very helpful and very approachable if you needed help or had any queries. Could not fault any of them.
Did you enjoy studying at Perth College UHI?
I loved studying through Perth College UHI. I am now currently looking at my options to potentially study another course through them.
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
Studying this course has certainly helped me with my career progression. The knowledge that I have gained from the course is now being used on a daily basis
What have you been up to since graduation?
I am still working full-time as an Accounts and Payroll Administrator, which is keeping me very busy for the moment.
Any plans for the future?
While I am still working full-time, I am looking into studying another course as I feel I have gained the confidence I needed to push myself - and plan to continue to do so
What advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at Perth College UHI?
The best advice I could give to someone who is thinking about studying at Perth is, go for it! You 100% won't regret it. I remember being very hesitant when I was thinking about doing this course and I would look at the UHI website every night thinking, "Should I? What if I fail or just can't do it?". Then I told myself that I won't know until I at least give it a try. I am very glad and proud that I plucked up the courage to apply, as I am now sitting here with my Grade A certificate and a very large smile on my face! If I can do it, so can you.
