Student Spotlight - Aleksandra Temperley
“The thing with UHI Perth is that they WANT you to learn, they WANT you to succeed and pass - and it shows.”
After a break in her studies, Aleksandra is back at UHI Perth to continue her journey of learning and improvement. She chatted to us about her passion for Administration and spoke about the changes she has seen on campus in the time she has been away.
What is your name, and where are you from?
My name is Aleksandra Temperley, and I am originally from Poland.
What course are you studying at UHI Perth, and what year are you currently in?
I am currently studying HNC Administration and IT. I did the NC back in 2015, so this is me back to continue my studies.
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
I originally heard about UHI Perth back in 2014, when my sister mentioned it, as she also studied her HNC Childcare here.
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
Before I came back to UHI Perth in 2023, I was working full-time as a tanning assistant (since 2021).
Why did you decide to pick NQ Administration?
I picked Administration because, when I was a child, my mum would always let me take leaflets, pencils etc from our local bank. The ladies there knew us so well they would let me have old banking slips, pens, and other things. My mum was a teacher so she would bring loads of paper, a stapler, and a calculator for me, and I even got an old typewriter from my dad’s work! I would sit there for hour and hours playing ‘office’. I would have my imaginary clients and deal with their requests, which in my young mind seemed fascinating! I feel so warm inside thinking about this, very wholesome memories.
What was your favourite thing about the course?
There is so many amazing things about this course. It’s a very broad subject, as at first glance you would think it is all about your usual Microsoft Office, reception duties etc, however there is so much more to it! There is Human Resources Management, Digital Technologies, Office Administration, Business Law. I cannot choose my favourite thing, they’re all so interesting!
You are now studying HNC Administration and IT, why did you decide to return to UHI Perth to do this course?
I decided to come to UHI Perth to do Administration for two reasons - I was bored and needed a challenge, and I felt like ‘I was letting my brain down’. I knew if I left my current job for a different one, I would just end up in the same situation. My second reason was that I wanted a qualification. I wanted to learn all the study skills, I wanted to experience the student life, attend classes (online and at UHI), work a part-time job, plan my time etc. This is an essential part of your life, and I would recommend this to everyone who is struggling with planning their future. The feeling after submitting and passing your assignments is unmatched!
Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your courses and time so far at UHI Perth?
Yes, there is so memorable things that I will remember forever! I think overall the place has made me a nicer, kinder person in general.
What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your courses that will help you when you leave UHI Perth?
So far, I have learned a few valuable skills - one of them would be time-management skills, this is an extremely essential one. You have to time-manage your studies, your private life, your job etc. I am still polishing this skill; however, we do have Personal Development Planning as part of our studies which helps a lot.
Have your lecturers been supportive during your studies?
My lecturers are extremely supportive. The thing with UHI Perth is that they WANT you to learn, they WANT you to succeed and pass - and it shows. My PAT Alison is an amazing woman, and she is there for all of us, all the time.
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
My big achievement so far, is that I am back at UHI, and I am ready to learn. This is the start of my new life. Academic achievements are still to come.
What do you like about the campus/facilities?
This is the question I was waiting for! UHI Perth has changed since I was last here back in the day. Firstly, I must say, I am so happy that there are sanitary products in the ladies’ bathrooms! I love how there is free breakfast for everyone, every morning, to help with the cost-of-living crisis. Another thing is HISA (Your Students’ Association), student services, and mental health services. UHI feels like a community that is there for their students whatever they need. There are so many people struggling with mental health problems these days, and it is lovely to know that the help is here.
Have you enjoyed studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
I have enjoyed studying here so much, and I am looking forward to seeing what this academic year brings!
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of your studies?
I love reading books by Ken Follet, spy and war thrillers. I love going out of town and to local vinyl fairs with my husband. I adore going on little city breaks, and just enjoying life!
What are your future career plans?
That’s a big question. My future career plan is to stay in the Administration field. I have learned that the admin role is a solid core of every company! I am not too sure what exactly I will go for, however I am fascinated by Human Resources Management…
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
My advice for anyone thinking of joining UHI would be: DO IT, DO IT, DO IT - you will not regret it. We are so lucky here in Scotland, as we get so much additional help like SAAS. The lecturers are so kind and amazing and WILL help you. You will meet friends for life, and you will cherish this time for the rest of your life. It’s very worth it.
