Student Spotlight - Kim Lackie
“I never thought I would write a dissertation, but I managed and can be proud of this.”
After deciding she wanted to change her career path and build a better future for herself and her family, Kim returned to education as a mature student and graduated with an honour’s degree in October 2023. 🎓 😍
Can you introduce yourself?
Kim Lackie and I am from Perth.
What course did you study at UHI Perth?
BA (Hons) Child and Youth Studies. I started at UHI Perth in 2017/18 doing NC Early Education and Childcare, I then progressed to HNC Childhood Practice in 2018/19. I then took a year gap and returned to year 2 of the BA (Hons) Child and Youth Studies in 2020-2023.
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
I live in Perth but, before that, I studied at UHI Perth when I was 16.
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
Administrator for a local company, wife, and mum.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
I chose this course as a mature student looking to change my career path to something I have always wanted to do. I was fed up being an Administration Assistant and wanted to better my future for myself and my family.
What was your favourite thing about the course?
The flexibility, as my course was all online so I could work this around my family commitments. I was still able to take my kids to school - I could be there for my daughter’s last year of primary school and her first year of secondary school.
Were there any standout/memorable moments from your course?
Being nominated for Student of the Year 2022/23, this is a moment I will not forget.
I will never forget how supportive my tutors were when I was close to the end of my HNC course. I was faced with studying for my HNC, looking after my children, and my husband being in hospital - all at the same time. All of my tutors were so helpful and supportive during this time to ensure I successfully completed my HNC.
What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you now that you have graduated from UHI Perth?
I have taken the knowledge, skills, and experience from my UHI journey - and being a class rep for my final year at UHI - into the next stage of my education where I am doing PGDE Primary Education at Dundee University. I will take all of this experience into my teaching career, so that I can be the best teacher I can be.
Did you undertake a placement or work experience whilst at UHI Perth?
Yes, I was on school placements in my NC and HNC courses but there were no placements in the BACYS course.
Were your lecturers supportive during your studies?
Absolutely, all the lecturers/tutors I have had throughout my UHI journey have all been amazing, especially Debbie who supported me through some very challenging times for which I will always be grateful. Alan, who was my dissertation supervisor, was also amazingly supportive and gave me great advice and support on my dissertation journey.
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
I have grown as a person, and I have improved my self-belief. My confidence has increased in voicing opinions and gaining respect from peers. I never thought I would write a dissertation, but I managed and can be proud of this.
What do you like about the campus/facilities?
The library, which I took full advantage of during my online degree course. It was a welcomed break away from my desk at home and felt I was part of a learning community.
Did you enjoy studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
Yes, I enjoyed studying at UHI. The highlights for me had to be graduating from the HNC and BA (Hons) courses.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of your studies?
I volunteer as a Beaver Section Leader for The Scouts Association, and spending time with my family and friends.
What are your future career plans now that you have graduated?
I am currently studying PGDE Primary Education at Dundee University with the hope of becoming a probationer teacher next year, then a lifelong career in teaching.
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
Enjoy every minute of your course and use all the support and resources around you throughout your course. You are starting an amazing journey and will be thoroughly supported by tutors, support staff, and anyone you come across on your course. Make full use of the library facilities and the librarians are so helpful and will help you find what you need. Just embrace the start of your future – believe and you will succeed.
