Student Spotlight - Lauren Puttick
If you’ve been out of education for more than three years, and are looking for flexible learning, our NQ Access to Humanities is an innovative course that you can study from home. This course is a SWAP (Scottish Wider Access Programme) which supports adults, ordinarily resident in Scotland to return to education after a gap. It will help you to develop the skills you need to progress into Higher Education, to a wide range of HNC, HND and degree level courses. This course does not restrict you to Social Science degrees - SWAP students from UHI Perth are enjoying careers in Law, Social Work, Teaching, and Event Management.
We chatted to a student who is currently on this course to see how she is finding it so far.
Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Lauren Puttick and I’m from Nethy Bridge in the Highlands.
What course are you studying at UHI Perth?
I’m currently doing the SWAP Course – Access to Humanities. It’s just a one-year course so I’m in the middle of it currently and really enjoying it!
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
I was interested in going back into education, so I spoke to the team at UHI, they suggested the SWAP course at UHI Perth.
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
I was working full time at Abernethy Nethy Bridge, a Christian Outdoor Centre near Aviemore which I absolutely loved.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
The SWAP Course is based at UHI Perth but the whole course is remote, which is perfect for me being a mum of two girls that are nursery/primary school age. I can work on the course but there is a little bit of flexibility to do the school run etc. I also don’t have the right grades to apply for any sort of degree, so the SWAP course is like a stepping stone to get me there.
What is your favourite thing about the course?
It is a very different feel than secondary school, the assessments aren’t based on you memorising a lot of information like school was, so I’m really enjoying learning the variety of subjects, but also not stressed about upcoming assessments by having to remember everything.
Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your course?
I don’t have any in-person experiences so it’s a little different, but we do still have a laugh over Teams!
What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you when you leave UHI Perth?
The SWAP course is great because I’m gaining knowledge across the variety subjects like Psychology, Politics, Criminology, History and more! I’m also gaining lots of really useful information that is needed for going into further education, for example, essay writing, referencing and working on my UCAS application.
How have you found studying your course remotely from home?
It has been great! I’m grateful for the flexibility with having a family and I don’t feel isolated even though I’m not seeing people in person. I feel that there is a really good balance.
Did you have the opportunity to still make friendships, even though you were not doing a face-to-face course?
We have all got to know each other through our classes (Teams calls) and having a WhatsApp group. I live pretty remote so I guess it’s harder for me but people who live a bit closer to each other could meet up if they wanted to.
Have your lecturers been supportive during your studies?
Yes, absolutely, they have all been great! They want us to do well, so they are amazing in listening and answering questions. Even in subjects I don’t feel very confident in, the lecturers are very good at giving feedback and are so encouraging.
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
Not yet, but I’ve got many years ahead of me, hopefully!
Have you enjoyed studying at UHI Perth?
Yes, so far, it has been great!
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of your studies?
I enjoy running, reading, being creative, and I love being in the outdoors.
What are your future career plans?
I would love to be a primary school teacher, so that’s my goal!
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
Just go for it!! The UHI team are excellent, they are so supportive and fun.
