Student Spotlight - Stephen McLellan
“For years I had a passion in music. I wanted to find a career that would help provide for a family and give me a career that I would love.”
Having just graduated in October, Stephen shared his experience of studying at UHI Perth.
Can you introduce yourself?
Stephen McLellan and I am currently living in Alva, Clackmannanshire.
What course did you study at UHI Perth?
BA (Hons) Popular Music for four years.
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
I had previously studied here.
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
I had been working in security in Debenhams and occasionally working for a mobile disco company.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
For years I had a passion in music. I wanted to find a career that would help provide for a family and give me a career that I would love. I had taught a few lessons, guitar being my instrument of choice, and I loved teaching and getting to pass on my knowledge. I loved getting to see students progress and gaining a new joy for music.
What was your favourite thing about the course?
By far, getting to meet other musicians interested in music and sharing ideas and performing with each other in bands and small groups.
Were there any standout/memorable moments from your course?
Getting to perform as a band during a first-year performance in a venue was an exciting time as we got to see the hard work paying off. Another performance at St Marks was a great experience as it was my first solo project gig. Creating a performable electronic music was something I had dreamed about for years, and this was the first chance to do so.
What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you now that you have graduated from UHI Perth?
The course allowed me to gain work experience in a school and experience first-hand how to help pupils in a music classroom. I loved this placement and really backed up my career choice. During the summer break, I was given the opportunity to work with Pop Akademie in Germany and work with other musicians studying at the establishment. This was an excellent opportunity to share ideas and work with students in other genres of music.
Did you undertake a placement or work experience whilst at UHI Perth?
Yes, the placement was with a high school in Denny.
Were your lecturers supportive during your studies?
Always, and especially as I progressed. They were inspiring and gave me lessons in music that I will never forget. Following the course, I gained work from a lecturer that recommended me to a school.
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
Working and focusing on studies and time-keeping skills, as well as being more organised.
What do you like about the campus/facilities?
I loved Perth for the technology available. The studios and music equipment were good quality. The campus was nice and well placed I felt.
Did you enjoy studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
Yes, it reminds me of great times. All the people I met were great to work with and I felt this time round, I am more mature, and I was utilising as much of the resources I had available.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of your studies?
Playing instruments and listening to music is my main hobby. I also like cycling and I have found a new love for jiu jitsu.
What are your future career plans now that you have graduated?
Eventually once my piano is up to teaching level, I will apply for the teaching degree with the aim of becoming a high school music teacher.
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
Use all the study material, equipment, and teaching advice you can. Don’t take this for granted, as one day you may not have it. Enjoy every moment as the journey is one of the most exciting parts and the feeling of getting the degree through the door is amazing and so worth the hard work! Also enjoy studying even if it’s the boring exercises… (haha). Choose projects, when you can, that you are passionate about.
