Alumni Spotlight - Wojciech Czujko
“The students were so open, they welcomed me very well even when I didn't speak well for my two first years of the courses. I was very shy, because of that, but I passed all of my exams and was happy.”
Perth College UHI is a vibrant and welcoming place to improve your English skills - for work, study, or everyday life. International student, Woody is proof of this, as he is now successfully working as a chef. He shares his story 👇
Introduce yourself
Hi, my name is Wojciech 'Woody' Czujko. I'm 27 and I'm from Poland.
What course did you study at Perth College UHI, and in what year did you complete your studies?
I've started at Level 2 Professional Cookery, then progressed to Level 3 Professional Cookery, then HNC Professional Cookery. I have also done HND Professional Cookery part-time. I passed all my practical exams, but I didn't finish the rest of those studies, because I moved to England.
How did you hear about Perth College UHI?
My brother was studying Sound Production at Perth College UHI, and he encouraged me to go as well.
What were you doing before you came to Perth College UHI?
I finished all my studies in Poland and then moved to Scotland. I wanted to take a gap year, as I didn't know what I would like to do, and also wanted to learn English. I couldn't speak the language and the barrier was huge. I was working in a local restaurant as KP and when I was watching how the whole kitchen was working, it made me feel like it was a lot of fun so I decided I would like to be a chef too.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
I wanted to be a chef and this course suited me perfectly.
What was your favourite thing about the course?
Cooking many new things that I didn't do before and learning about how a good restaurant should work.
Were there any standout/memorable moments from your course?
How all of the students were so open, they welcomed me very well even when I didn't speak well for my two first years of the courses. I was very shy, because of that, but I passed all of my exams and I was happy. I remember one of the hygiene exams, I got 34/35 on the exam. This was the last exam of the HNC, and I was the best in the group - I was very surprised. The chocolate workshops were also memorable!
Did you have a favourite dish that you made during your time studying?
I love to make pastry, any of them. It’s the best fun.
What knowledge, skills and experience did you gain from your course that have helped you since leaving Perth College UHI?
I've learned how to be patient, as well as the organisation of the workplace and how to manage the people I'm working with.
What did you think about the styles of teaching, and the support you received from staff?
I really enjoyed all of the classes with my favourite tutor, Neil Mugg. I've learned a lot with his help. He has a huge knowledge and, if somebody had a question, he was willing to help.
Perth College UHI Lecturer, Neil Mugg
Did you undertake a placement or work experience whilst at Perth College UHI?
The work experience I gained in the restaurant I used to work at, and also a few extra jobs like helping Praven Kumar with preparation of food for the Food and Drinks award in 2018. I also did a Perth Show workshop in 2016.
What did you like about the campus? Were the Food Studies and Hospitality facilities good?
The whole campus was a very nice and warm place to be, but a busy place also. The library was full of books.
Thanks to my studies, I've learned a lot. I can tell you, with a hand on my heart, that it was the best four years of my life. I enjoyed every moment on campus, I spent lots of unforgotten time, and gained many heart-warming memories with my friends.
Were there any other achievements you gained, on your journey?
I was awarded a bronze medal in fish fileting in SCOTHOT 2018.
What have you been up to since graduation? Are you currently employed?
I was working in Miller and Carter for the last two years and I was the team leader there. In February, I will start working in Luciano's restaurant base in Woking. My position will be a Sous Chef there, so I'm so excited about it.
Do you feel your studies have helped you with your career?
They help me to develop my skills in every way, they help me to be a better chef and also a better leader.
What is your future career plans?
For now, I’m looking forward to working in this Italian restaurant, and later I will see what life will bring.
Since graduating, what has been your favourite dish that you have made?
The Christmas dinner - the whole meal not just a dish. I prefer to do a few things rather than focus on one: it's just my own preference.
Did you enjoy studying at Perth College UHI? Any highlights?
Oh, yeah. I treated it like it was my second home. I felt very good in college. I miss everyone there; it was the best four years of my life.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at Perth College UHI?
They will welcome you with open arms, so don't worry. ‘Be yourself, and always aim high’ - is a sentence my friend once told me.
