Student Spotlight - Louise McPhillimy
Science and biotechnology are major growth industries in Scotland, which should come as no surprise, given the global reputation this country has for innovation and technological leadership.
Our campus is fitted with excellent laboratories, fully equipped to deliver a range of science courses to help our students learn in a comfortable and professional environment. After being inspired to learn more about nutrition and science, Louise is currently on her second course at UHI Perth. She chats to us about why she decided to return to study 👇
What is your name, and where are you from?
My name is Louise and I’m from Auchterarder, which is just outside of Perth.
What course are you studying at UHI Perth, and what year are you currently in?
I’m studying SWAP Access to Health and Life Science.
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
From friends who had previously studied there.
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
Last year, I studied Applied Science Level 5 - which is where I learned about the SWAP course. Before college, I had various jobs including working in the Police and as a personal trainer.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
During my time working as a personal trainer, I found I had an interest in learning more about nutrition and the science behind it. This SWAP course involves chemistry, biology, physics, and maths for science - which is all the subjects I need to be able to apply for university degrees.
What is your favourite thing about the course?
My favourite thing about the course is probably the people I’ve met. As the course I’m doing is online, the lecturers have managed to make it very enjoyable and interactive!
Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your course?
In January, we had a week on campus in Perth and we were able to carry out several experiments and meet each other in person which was great and really good for reinforcing certain things we had learned online when doing practical work.
What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you when you leave UHI Perth?
I always doubted myself at school but during my time studying at UHI Perth, I’ve managed to prove to myself that I am capable of succeeding in the coursework, thanks to the lecturers for their continuous support and encouragement. My confidence has improved massively, and I feel ready to study at a degree level at university which is something I never thought I would be able to do.
Have your lecturers been supportive during your studies?
Absolutely! If I ever have any questions or I’m struggling with certain topics I can just email them, and they respond quickly and take time out to make sure I understand it fully. They are brilliant at giving feedback on reports too and helping with UCAS application and personal statement writing!
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
Since sending off my UCAS application, I’ve had a few conditional offers from different universities!
What do you like about the campus/facilities?
The library is great and has books available for all topics and is a great place to go for private study and the staff are very helpful too. The gym is fantastic and such a good price for students! I would go last year in between classes and found it a great way to help de-stress.
Have you enjoyed studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
I’ve really enjoyed studying at UHI Perth and my highlight would just be gaining more confidence in myself when it comes to studying and sitting exams.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of your studies?
I love CrossFit, hill walking and reading books!
What are your future career plans?
I would love to be a dietician and work for the NHS helping people with their diet and health conditions.
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
100%, go for it! They have so many courses to choose from and the campus is great. The lecturers are supportive and will keep you on the right track and help you figure out what you need to do to get you from where you are to where you’d like to be!
