Student Spotlight - Megan MacMaster
At Perth College UHI, we offer great progression opportunities. Students can start from entry-level programmes, where no previous qualifications are required, and work their way up - with many courses going right up to honours degree level. This is exactly what this week’s Student Spotlight, did. Megan tells us her story:
What is your name, and where are you from?
My name is Megan MacMaster. I am from Perth, and recently have moved to Blairgowrie.
What course are you studying at Perth College UHI, and what year are you currently in?
I am studying BA Hospitality Management, and I am in year 3. I started off doing Hospitality Level 2 at 16, I and have worked my way up all the levels - doing Professional Cookery levels 2 and 3, and then progressed on to do my HNC and HND. This year, I progressed onto my BA Hospitality Management - where I am completing my year 3 and moving on to my year 4 in the next academic year.
What were you doing before you came to college?
I was still in school in fourth year and working part-time in a hotel near my house. I wasn’t enjoying being at school and work were very helpful and managed to get me an interview for starting college in Hospitality. The original course was going to be Professional Cookery, but the course was already full – so, instead of waiting a year, I decided to go ahead with Hospitality and progress to Professional Cookery the next year.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
I was enjoying working front of house at my work, but then decided to try out the kitchen - which I really enjoyed - when undertaking work experience at school. The head chef took me on and trained me up, and I got the opportunity of going to College. I said yes, because it got me out of school, and it was the best thing I have done!
What is your favourite thing about the course?
My favourite thing about the course is how much experience I have gained through competitions and working alongside Sodexo chefs for themed nights in the College’s training restaurant. The lecturers are also great and have taught me a lot over the years, of which I’m grateful for.
During the pandemic, how did the style of teaching change? Were your lecturers supportive during this time?
The learning all took place online over WebEx, which was hard to start with - but luckily enough we still got to see our lecturers over camera and speak to them. The lecturers have been very supportive making sure I have everything I need and making sure I am coping well with the workload. It is definitely different from being in a face-to-face class, but it was adapted well.
Has there been any stand out/memorable moments from your course?
I have had many opportunities - the most memorable one being getting to serve and cook in the Parliament the two years that I did it, it was a great experience.
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
I have gained certificates from competitions I have taken part in. I competed in the Sodexo Salon Culinare, and received a Silver award. I took part in ScotHot Competition, which takes place every three years in Glasgow, and gained a bronze award.
Are the hospitality facilities, on campus, good?
The hospitality facilities are fantastic. They have fully functioning kitchens, and a classroom that can transform into a restaurant. It is great experience and helps prepare you for going out into industry, where you can practice what you have been taught and put it in to play.
What else do you like about the campus?
The campus has great facilities, and the lecturers within the campus are very supportive. An added bonus to the campus is the Academy of Sport and Wellbeing gym.
Have you enjoyed studying at Perth College UHI?
It has been a great experience and working my way up from the bottom has been great at developing my confidence.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of college?
I like to read and draw when I have some free time, and I like computer games. With being a chef, I love to bake and teach my younger siblings how to.
What are your plans, for after you finish your course?
Once I have completed my course, my plans are to continue in my job role at the Gleneagles Hotel and work my way up the ladder. In a few years’ time, I would love to be able to join the kitchen team again. I have been working as a waitress for the last two years and was a pastry chef for four years prior to that, I love both front and back of house in hospitality.
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at Perth College UHI?
Definitely go for it - I have loved my time there and have met some great lifelong friends along the way.
