Student Spotlight - Rebecca Wallace
Did you know that once you are a student at Perth College UHI, you automatically become a member of the student’s association? HISA represents all students in the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) and its academic partners. HISA Perth is led by three student officers: the President, Vice President of Education and Engagement and the Vice President of Activities and Welfare. The officers are elected by the student body and represent the students’ voice to make the student life and experience on campus engaging and lively. In this week’s blog, we get to know Rebecca Wallace - the Vice President of Education and Engagement.
What is your name, and where are you from?
Rebecca and I’m from Scotland!
What course are you studying at Perth College UHI, and what year are you currently in?
I’m in my second year of Aircraft Engineering, after completing the first year.
What were you doing before you came to college?
I had been working in design-related roles. This included a role in local government looking at electric vehicle technology and digital design in a law firm.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
I wanted to move my career into the aviation/aerospace industry. The pandemic made me realise this was the perfect time to study as I wanted to increase my technical skills to make me a more desirable candidate for a job.
What is your favourite thing about the course?
The content. Its heavy in subject, such as aerodynamics and existing technology on aircraft. This knowledge can be applied in other industries, including automotive and energy.
During the pandemic, how did the style of teaching change? Were your lecturers supportive during this time?
Some classes moved online, which had its benefits as I didn’t have to worry about the time and cost of a commute. Lecturers always make time for questions at the end of a class and told us to email if we had any other questions outside of class time.
Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your course?
Going down the rabbit hole in physics by asking ‘why’ too many times.
Building something in electronics and it *actually* working.
Getting the right answer to a very long math problem.
Getting an A in year 1.
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
I gained my pilot licence, which has helped me in my studies.
You are currently serving as the Vice President for Education and Engagement for HISA Perth, how have your first few months been? What are you hoping to achieve during your time in the role?
These past few months I’ve met so many people involved with running UHI and HISA. They are very passionate and share a common goal of making UHI a better place for students. It’s allowed me to generate new ideas and solutions to problems. This year, I want to improve the employability of students, especially in career-related roles post-study. I want to deliver new ways of gathering feedback which will reduce the number of surveys students get and improve the quantity and quality of responses. After the pandemic, I really want to see a return to practical work and see students have more say on what, and how, they are being taught.
Have you enjoyed studying at Perth College UHI?
Yes.
What do you like about the campus/facilities?
Some buildings are new and the whole campus is well-equipped for the courses they deliver. There are good facilities including a nursery, free car parking, a library, and canteen/coffee shops!
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of college?
Flying.
I enjoy painting (I love painting the sky and clouds) or baking cakes.
I like to keep fit too. I run in summer and keep warm in a gym during winter. I love doing lengths in the pool then relaxing in the steam room after!
What are your plans, for after you finish your course?
I’m hoping to secure a role in aviation. I’m looking out for opportunities around development, design, and sustainability.
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at Perth College UHI?
Perth College UHI offers so much flexibility and opportunity. A lot of courses allow you to work in-between your studies. The location is good too – you don’t need to move to a big city to get a degree and being in central Scotland means it’s accessible to the surrounding area. I would advise getting involved with the events and opportunities hosted by Perth College UHI and HISA, such as the open days.
🗣️ HISA Perth is always looking to gather any feedback, suggestions, or comments on how they can represent the students’ voice to make the student life and experience engaging and lively both on campus and online. Contact the team directly at: HISA.perth@uhi.ac.uk
➡️ Choose from a great range of courses beginning in the New Year, perfect for helping you get 2022 off to the best start!
