Student Spotlight - Rob Johnston
“As someone who missed a lot of their schooling through illness, the prospect of returning to education was very daunting, but the support given by Perth College UHI has been excellent and I would encourage anyone thinking of applying to do so.”
With career aspirations to be a nurse, Rob returned to education on an ‘access course’ so that he could gain the qualifications needed to apply for a degree in nursing.
What is your name, and where are you from?
Rob Johnston. Originally from Portmahomack in the Highlands, but now live in Perth.
What course are you studying at Perth College UHI?
NC Access to nursing (Swap programme).
“This course is for adults who have been out of full-time education for at least three years and who want to enter a degree programme in nursing or progress into health and social care.”
How did you hear about Perth College UHI?
I previously studied at North Highland College UHI, and I researched the course on the Perth College UHI website.
What were you doing before you came to college?
Working as a healthcare assistant in a nursing home for elderly adults.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
My career ambition is to become a nurse and this course provides an introduction to the subject, as well as a route into university. I missed a lot of education through illness and so did not have the required grades to be accepted into university, so this course provided an opportunity to develop the required skills and academic qualifications.
What is your favourite thing about the course?
It allows me to gain the required qualifications to progress to university, as well as developing my skills such as numeracy and essay writing. It has provided me with an introduction back into education after many years of work.
Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your course?
Passing my level 6 numeracy as it was always the subject I struggled most with when at school, but I now really enjoy it!
What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you when you leave Perth College UHI?
The ability to manage multiple deadlines for several subjects at the same time, which will be a skill I will be required to use when at university.
During the pandemic, how did the style of teaching change? Were your lecturers supportive during this time?
Many classes were virtual; however, I did attend college for some assessments. The lecturers kept us informed with how the content would be delivered and any changes due to the pandemic and were very accommodating.
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
Receiving multiple offers to universities to study nursing.
What do you like about the campus/facilities?
The campus has excellent sports facilities in the Academy of Sport and Wellbeing, which I became a member of.
Have you enjoyed studying at Perth College UHI? Any highlights?
I have had a good experience at Perth College UHI, and it has prepared me well for university. I have made many friends on my course and every lecturer has been very supportive and encouraging.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of college?
I enjoy watching football and support Ross County. I also enjoy exploring Scotland and holidays abroad.
What is your future career plans?
To undertake a nursing degree at university and become a registered adult nurse.
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at Perth College UHI?
The prospect of returning to education was very daunting, but the support given by Perth College UHI has been excellent and I would encourage anyone thinking of applying to do so.
