Student Spotlight - Michal Majewski
At Perth College UHI, we can help turn your ambitions of making a difference to people’s lives into a reality - and this is exactly the path that international student, Michal took. Having started learning ‘English as a Second Language’, Michal then started progressing through the Health and Social Care courses – with the end goal of becoming a Social Worker. He shares his story 👇
What is your name, and where are you from?
My name is Michal Majewski. I am from Gdansk, Poland, and I have been living in Scotland for over six years.
What course are you studying at Perth College UHI?
I am currently studying NQ Health and Social Care Level 6. My adventure with Perth College UHI started with an ESOL Course in 2019 and last year, I accomplished NQ Health and Social Care on Level 5.
What were you doing before you came to college?
I was working in Morrison’s Academy, an independent school in Crieff, and I still work there part-time.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
Being a student in group one on the ESOL Course, I was talking a lot with my PAT Greg Mackenzie-Milne about my future and personal life goals. I have always been interested in social science, I consider myself as a ‘people person’ and Greg suggested I might be interested in helping people struggling with difficulties in daily life – for example, being a social worker. That idea strongly appealed to me! I decided to apply for the Health and Social Care course, and it was a great decision.
What is your favourite thing about the course?
What I like most is the practical preparation for working in the care sector. We learned the correct knowledge and it met my expectations.
During the pandemic, how did the style of teaching change? Were your lecturers supportive during this time?
During the online studying, the lecturers were extremely supportive, and they did everything they could to make the online teaching enjoyable and effective. Throughout this time, I felt supported and understood with all my issues.
Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your course?
On the ESOL course, I did my first PowerPoint presentation speaking to the public and this I was something I really enjoyed! Maybe I have discovered showman talent?!
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
I did improve my English skills. I developed my self-confidence; I took a part in many interesting discussions; and what is most important, I found myself with my future work such as being a care sector member.
Have you done a placement or work experience, as part of your course?
Currently I am doing a placement in PKAVS day club. This is a great experience for many reasons - first of all, it is practical, and I can use the knowledge I gained on my course. It is also the type of work which I would like to do.
What do you like about the campus/facilities?
I like that the campus is a separated area and it creates a ‘special place’ atmosphere which is favourable for studying and education. I really appreciate the friendly policy for the LGBTQ+ community and supporting individuality makes an impression of a colourful and diverse place.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of college?
I have a few hobbies and activities which I do outside of college. My favourite is to make models of tanks from WWII, ships from WWI and XXII, and modern military facility.
I love hiking. I am Munro bagger and I have achieved couple of them so far, recently Ben Nevis.
I enjoy playing RPG games and I play D&D online with my friends. I adore going to the cinema and recently I was in the IMAX to see new Dune, a magnificent piece of art.
Last, but not least, are books. My favourite writers are Kurt Vonnegut, Joseph Heller, and John Steinbeck, but I am also very fond of S-F and fantasy genre.
What are your plans, for after you finish your course?
I would like to be a social worker and the first part of this career is working in the care sector as a carer. I like working with people and want to share with them my passion for things that I like and open their mind to new experiences.
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at Perth College UHI?
Think what you like, think what makes you happy, and develop that at Perth College UHI under the care of lecturers - which is the best social environment ever!
