Student Spotlight - Hope Teal
“College has helped me grow in confidence, given me more independence, made me believe in myself more and be less afraid to try new things. I’ve also made some very good friends for life.”
Hear Hope’s motivating journey of progressing from a school transition course, to an HND, and her special friendship with fellow student, Chelsea ⬇️
What is your name, and where are you from?
My name is Hope and I’m from Aberfeldy.
What course are you studying at Perth College UHI, and what year are you currently in?
I’ve just completed my HNC Administration and Information Technology and I am going on to HND. I also did NC Admin.
What were you doing before you came to college?
Before I came to college, I was at school. When I was in my last year of school, I did a course called ‘New Opportunities Link Transition’ - where I went to college every Friday to settle me in.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
When I first started, I chose a course that helped me explore different options and then, from doing that, I found that I really enjoyed Admin - so I decided to do NC Admin. When I passed NC Admin, I decided to carry on studying and progressed onto HNC Admin.
What is your favourite thing about the course?
I really like how all the lecturers will do their best to help and how all the students support each other.
Have you made new friends, on your course?
Has their support helped you, during your time at Perth College UHI? I have made some very close friends at college. Chelsea and I have been there for each other, throughout our time at college. Chelsea is a fab friend because I know she has my back, as I have hers, and I can talk to her about anything.
During the pandemic, how did the style of teaching change? Were your lecturers supportive during this time?
The NC Admin course started off at college, but then as we went into lockdown, everything was moved online. At first it was a struggle, because we were all trying to get to grips with the new technology. However, the lecturers were really encouraging, understanding and great at helping us get used to the new technology we were using.
Has there been any stand out/memorable moments from your course?
When I first started at Perth College UHI, I was very shy around new people - I was also nervous and scared to try new things. College has helped me grow in confidence, given me more independence, made me believe in myself more, and be less afraid to try new things. I’ve also made some very good friends for life.
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
I progressed from a transition course to Higher Education.
What do you like about the campus/facilities?
I like the library because there’s a lot of space and it has a nice atmosphere. I also love the chips in the Goodlyburn canteen, as Chelsea would tell you! The Goodlyburn canteen is a lot quieter than the Brahan one.
Have you enjoyed studying at Perth College UHI?
When I did ‘Next Steps to Learning’. the support staff really helped me. Jackie Munro really supported me when I struggled with my anxiety/self-confidence, and I class her as a close friend now. She believed in me when I didn’t think I could do it and increased my confidence. My Personal Academic Tutor, Kathryn Lyneborg, has been very understanding and patient. I liked the units that you can do at your own pace, because they are straightforward and it’s relatively easy to catch up if you fall behind.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of college?
I enjoy reading, listening to music, photography, and yoga, in my free time.
What are your plans, for after you finish your course?
After my HND, I plan to take a gap year out to focus on volunteering, as I really enjoy helping people. When I am at college, I don’t have the time to do it and I do miss it - so I will be doing some volunteering after I finish HND.
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at Perth College UHI?
My advice would be to take that leap of faith, believe in yourself - although I know how hard it can be, as I get told quite a lot to have more faith in myself - and you can do it.
I would choose Perth College UHI because they are really accommodating and have a great support team to help students with learning difficulties. I have a Personal Learning Support Plan (PLSP), due to my autism, which is very useful as it makes lecturers aware of the extra support I need. I know how nerve-wracking it can be coming to a new place where you don’t know that many people, because I found it intimidating at first - but once you get settled in, make friends, and get to know the lecturers, it does get easier. All the staff are very friendly, approachable and will do their best to help you.
