Student Spotlight - Nathan Reid
The Scottish Government’s standard aim is to make health, social care, and social work services better for everyone. This is to make sure that every person is treated with respect and dignity and the human rights we're all entitled to are upheld. At UHI Perth, we can help turn your ambitions of making a difference to people’s lives into a reality. The quality of teaching, training, and consultancy will help you be ready to join this important and growing sector.
In this week’s blog, we meet a Health and Social Care student who has thrived in the department and is looking towards the future ❤
What is your name, and where are you from?
Nathan Reid, from Perth.
What course are you studying at UHI Perth, and what year are you currently in?
I’m studying NQ Health and Social Care Level 5. I did Moving On in 2018-19, then I started NQ Health and Social care in 2019 but left due to personal reasons. I completed Next Steps to Learning in 2019-2020.
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
Through Scott Street Youth Services.
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
Not much at all. I didn’t attend school much in S3 and S4 due to anxiety issues. Then I attended Scott Street and chose to join the Moving On course at UHI Perth.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
I think it was working with Youth Services. I realised it was a good job role, a job I would be good at and would find very rewarding.
What is your favourite thing about the course?
The classmates. In the first year of college, I didn’t get along with the others, but this year there has been a real bond and lots of respect between us.
Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your course?
The biology test was a really good release when everyone passed. We were all really happy for each other and in celebrating our achievements.
What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you when you leave UHI Perth?
The course has been strong for me socially, getting to speak to different people, and to people who have lots of different knowledge. I have a greater understanding of how to talk to people.
The Human Development unit was really useful too, in understanding how people think and the reasons why they do things, which is important for youth work.
Have you undertaken a placement or work experience whilst at UHI Perth?
I’ve been volunteering at Perth Autism Support which I’ve been enjoying very much. It proved to me that I want to be in youth work, interacting with kids and having a good time.
Have your lecturers been supportive during your studies?
Yes, most of the lecturers have been super supportive and go the extra mile to make sure you understand the tasks and complete work on time.
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
Socially, I have massively improved. Within the class I’ve grown in confidence and am one of the strongest at keeping conversation flowing and keeping things fun!
What do you like about the campus/facilities?
There is a lot of resources and loads of ways to get support when needed so you can improve your time here and get the most out of it. Things like learning mentors, support workers and the student support teams.
Have you enjoyed studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the whole course, it’s been really great for me, especially having left college before. I’ve proved to myself that I can continue to develop further.
What are your future career plans?
To study Level 6 Health and Social Care, and then I’ll be looking into Level 7, then hopefully employment in youth work.
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
Go for it! There are no expectations. All the inductions are really helpful. Everyone tries to make you the best version of yourself and you’re super supported.
