Student Spotlight - Alison Devine
“I have met so many great people and have gained so much confidence throughout my time here and have enjoyed every minute of it.”
Having studied at UHI Perth as a teenager, Alison returned to continue her journey after having her children. She chats to us about her experience and shares her hopes for the future.
Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Alison Devine and I'm from Perth.
What course are you studying at UHI Perth, and what year are you currently in?
I'm currently studying Social Sciences Level 5. Before this, I did the Return 2 Learn course.
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
I've lived in Perth my whole life, so I've always known about UHI Perth, and I've completed a couple of courses throughout my teenage years.
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
Before returning to UHI Perth last year to complete the Return 2 Learn course, I was a stay-at-home mum to my two daughters.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
I chose to do this course because I found the subjects very interesting and wanted to gain more knowledge in regard to human and social behaviour in the hopes of making a difference one day and to help create a better future for my children and others.
What is your favourite thing about the course?
My favourite thing about the course is the amount of support given from my lecturers and classmates and meeting people with the same interests as me as well as everything I've learned thus far.
Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your course?
A memorable moment from my course was the great lessons we had during our criminology and history classes. We had a great lecturer who made every class fun and interesting.
What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you when you leave UHI Perth?
I volunteered to be a class rep throughout my course and in doing so, gained the experience to speak up for myself and others as to achieve the best and easiest academic experience. I hope this continues to help me in other life experiences.
Have you undertaken a placement or work experience whilst at UHI Perth?
I haven't undertaken a placement or work experience, but I did have a bit of experience in enterprise by raising money for the charity PKAVS in the form of a raffle/tombola.
Have your lecturers been supportive during your studies?
All my lecturers have been extremely supportive throughout my time on this course. They understand that every student has a different way of learning and have been very helpful in supporting us in our own, individual ways.
What do you like about the campus/facilities?
What I like about the campus facilities is its accessible to everyone and has everything each student could need. It has a great library and learning zone with a huge array of books and computers for all to access.
Have you enjoyed studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at UHI Perth, and I look forward to continuing on with my journey.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of your studies?
My hobby outside of college is musical theatre. I've had a love for music for as long as I remember, and singing is my biggest passion. I was lucky enough to be part of the community cast for the Jack and the Beanstalk pantomime at Perth Theatre last year and have an upcoming theatre project called the Seal Woman where I will be part of the Gaelic Choir. I also hope to be part of this year's pantomime, Aladdin.
What are your future career plans?
I joined my course with the goal of seeking a career in politics but after learning more about what it entails, I don't think it's the right choice for me so for now I'm just going with the flow. I have thought about applying for the musical theatre course in September but I'm still unsure of my next steps. I think it’s great that I do have the opportunity to change my course if I wanted to with the support of my lecturers.
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
My advice for anyone thinking of starting UHI Perth would be to do it! There are so many different courses suitable for all. The college as a whole is so supportive and lets you take the lead on any decisions you have, with endless support. I have met so many great people and have gained so much confidence throughout my time here and have enjoyed every minute of it.
