Student Spotlight - Aleksandra Banasiak
“It is a wonderful opportunity for everyone who wants to better themselves.”
Aleksandra came to Perth College UHI, to change the direction her life was going in, and to work towards the qualifications needed for the new life she aspired to. She tells us her story ⬇️
What course are you studying at Perth College UHI?
Currently I am studying HND Administration and Information Technology, and I am at the end of year 2.
What were you doing before you came to college?
Before I came to College, I was mostly working within the hospitality environment. In the past, I was a barmaid; barista; waitress; SPA attendant; and customer assistant. I knew I had to change something about my life, because I was not happy and what I was doing was not giving me satisfaction.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
I have always known that I would like to work within an administrative environment, but never received that opportunity - so I decided to take matters in my own hands and go to College to gain relevant qualifications that will help me with achieving my goals and making my dreams come true.
What is your favourite thing about the course?
There are a wide range of subjects being taught, as well as different skills you improve and gain thanks to that variety. College allows you to learn about different paths that you could potentially follow after completing the course, so you have time to think about what exactly you want to do. With Administration and IT, those include going towards a personal assistant career, becoming a book-keeper, administrative assistant, or even human resources officer and more. Options are infinite. This course helped me decide that I would like to become an HR officer, and maybe even one day HR Manager - because I realised how much I am interested in employment law.
Has there been any stand out/memorable moments from your course?
Yes, College itself has been one of the most memorable memories and the best time of my life. It allowed me to explore my abilities, build my confidence, but also helped me with finding and becoming my true self - someone I am finally happy to be. And the most important, I have met new people and made friends that forever changed my life and I will be eternally grateful for.
What do you like about the campus?
The campus is located in Perth, not too far away from the City centre, and it's also big. Thanks to that, there are many additional activities and facilities you can sign yourself up for – like the gym, creative writing workshops, and many more that are mostly free or cheap for the students. It also has students’ accommodation on the campus grounds, two large car parks and a nursery for those that need it - which is absolutely excellent.
Have you enjoyed studying at Perth College UHI?
Yes, most definitely. I met an exceptional bunch of people and I will be forever grateful to my incredible lecturers for their support. At Perth College UHI, everyone is unbelievably friendly and you are never alone or left out. You receive assistance and advice sometimes even to help you with your personal matters, and it helped me a lot in many situations
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of college?
I love travelling, learning new languages, and different cultures and their traditions. The Perth College UHI experience also provided me with that, because it is open and friendly to absolutely everyone and you get to meet - and be introduced to - a very diverse community, consisting of amazing people. I also love writing and, in my free time, I am working on creating my own novels.
What are your plans for after you finish your course?
After completing HND Administration and IT, I am planning to continue with my education and progress to the Business and Management degree - with pathway of Human Resources Management. After that, I would like to go further and complete a Bachelor's with Honors. Once I am finished with my education, and satisfied with my qualifications, I aim to become a Human Resources Manager.
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at Perth College UHI?
Do not think about it too much, and go for it! It is a wonderful opportunity for everyone who wants to better themselves. Never be scared or worried about asking questions and seeking support. We are here for each other, like a family.
