Master of Arts Spotlight - Luigi Borsotti

The MA Children and Young People’s Participation and Leadership is designed for any professional who works with children, young people, and their families, with a special interest in facilitating their rights and active participation.

This unique course is designed with special thanks to the Scottish Government, the Scottish Youth Parliament, Children’s Parliament Scotland, and relevant children’s rights organisations. Current student, Luigi, shares his experience of what it is like to study a course fully online.

Can you introduce yourself?

I’m Luigi and, as you could probably guess by my name, I am originally from Italy. I moved to the UK back in 2015 and I have been moving Northwards ever since – living first in Brighton, then Inverness and ultimately settling in the Orkney Islands, specifically Kirkwall. I work for a charity called Right There (formerly YPeople) and provide emotional and/or practical support to people with mental health and/or substance misuse issues.

What course did you complete/or are currently completing at UHI Perth?

I am currently completing a fully online postgraduate course – MA Children and Young People Participation and Leadership.

Why did you decide to do an MA qualification at UHI Perth?

There are several reasons why I chose this MA. First, this course offered the flexibility I was looking for. Being employed full-time hinders my ability to attend lectures at specific times during the day. However, this course did not require me to attend classes unless I requested some support from the lecturers who have usually been helpful and responsive. Second, this is a unique course that covers critical topics for those interested in working and supporting young people today. These include, Children’s Rights (UNCRC), mental health and wellbeing, trauma, and exploitation. Third, this MA can be tailored to allow professionals to expand their knowledge and skills. In fact, this course offers the opportunity to share one’s opinion and experience with other practitioners from various backgrounds all over Scotland.

How did you hear about the course?

I used to study a fully online undergraduate degree (BSc Hons Sustainable Development) with UHI, so I generally stay updated on the courses available. I decided this was the right course for me, once I began working with children and young people.

Completing a course and working full time can be difficult to juggle – can you describe any challenges you have faced and how you managed to overcome them.

Trying to find the right work-study-life balance can be complex especially at a postgraduate level when working full-time. Time management and being able to prioritise is fundamental to avoid building up stress and facing a burn-out. Acknowledging personal limits and setting out realistic goals can make it easier to navigate one module after another. My personal suggestion would be to start by taking only one module per semester, allowing oneself to get used to studying online in an independent way.

How have you found the style of teaching and the support you have received from your lecturers?

This MA requires students to be highly independent and motivated as there are no lectures to attend. Course material is available on a weekly basis in the form of PowerPoint, links to videos and lectures, articles and books which are relevant to the topic which is being explored. Despite not being taught as a traditional course, there are lecturers available to support those who need extra input and guidance. They are generally helpful and responsive, with a keen academic and professional interest regarding all aspects of children and young people participation, leadership, rights, and wellbeing.

How have you found the course content?

I genuinely found the content very informative and relevant for those working with children and young people. Each module is broken down per topic each week, allowing the student to explore and choose which direction they want to go when it comes to write the assignments.

How have you found studying online?

Personally, I love studying online but it took some time to adjust. I was lucky enough to have completed an undergraduate degree and several short courses online. However, for someone new to online study, it can be a task which requires time and motivation.

What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you with career progression?

The course equipped me with an in-depth knowledge critical for supporting young vulnerable people. Key modules covered Children’s Rights, current policies and legislation, and the impact of trauma and exploitation on health and wellbeing.

What are your career goals and plans?

I am unsure what are my long-term goals as I enjoy my current job. Ideally, I would like to keep working with children and young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and/or asylum seekers.

Do you have any hobbies or other interests, outside of your work or studies?

I am a bit of a nerd and enjoy playing videogames and watching anime in my spare time. I am also a volunteer at a local charity’s Board of Directors, and I am a trained Street Pastor.

Have you enjoyed studying at UHI Perth?

Yes, definitely.

And finally, what advice would you give to anyone thinking about doing a similar course at UHI Perth?

Online study is flexible and provides the necessary skills and knowledge to be competitive in today’s world of work. While it can seem a daunting challenge, just go for it! And if it is not for you there is always the opportunity to exit after completing a module (counts as CPD), three (PgCert) or six (PgDip).

Applications are still open for our MA in Children and Young People’s Participation and Leadership. Find your next start and #ApplyNow for a September start >>