Alumni Spotlight - Caitlin
“Since going to university, my confidence and social skills have developed immensely.”
Not everyone knows what they want to do when they leave school, so it can take time to find the right path. After being recommended an Art course at UHI Perth, a whole new world of opportunities opened up for Caitlin. She shares her story 👇
Can you introduce yourself?
Hi, my name is Caitlin and I’ve lived in Perthshire my whole life, and recently moved to Stanley.
What course did you study at UHI Perth, and in what year did you complete your studies?
I studied Visual Communications and Design at UHI Perth, and actually just finished my degree with honours this year. I formally graduated in October 2024!
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
I heard about it back when I was in high school, but I didn’t really have a plan for my future at that point and didn’t know what I wanted to study.
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
I did an NC in Horticulture at Elmwood and was a few months into the HNC when I decided that gardening wasn’t really for me. I stuck out the course, just in case I changed my mind, but I didn’t – so even though I came away with the qualifications, I didn’t want to pursue it any further. In the end, one of my lecturers encouraged me to apply for the NC Art and Design course at UHI Perth, and even let me put her down as a reference. (Thanks Heather! 💗)
Why did you decide to pick this course?
I basically started from the bottom and worked my way up, so by the time I had my HNC and HND in Visual Communications, it seemed like the most logical step to continue on to do my degree. Besides, I was enjoying the course a lot and had made some friends along the way.
What was your favourite thing about the course?
Definitely the people! It was great to meet so many new people and make connections within the industry as well.
Were there any standout/memorable moments from your course?
I loved getting to take part in the degree shows that we put together at the end of the year. It gave us all the opportunity to showcase what we had been working on that year, and there was a great sense of accomplishment when all was said and done.
What knowledge, skills and experience did you gain from your course that have helped you since leaving UHI Perth?
Since going to university, my confidence and social skills have developed immensely, so I find it much easier to put myself out there and take opportunities that in the past I might have been too nervous to go for. I would also say that my timekeeping skills are a lot better, which is always a good thing!
Did you undertake a placement or work experience whilst at UHI Perth?
We had a few projects that required us to work with a live client to create something for them. For example, we worked with a local band to design a cover for their upcoming album, which I found really fun and enjoyable.
What did you think about the styles of teaching, and the support you received from staff?
Unfortunately, for some time during my course, the Covid pandemic was in full swing, so for a while I wasn’t getting to meet properly with the lecturers. I did quite enjoy some aspects of distance learning, but it was great when we were finally able to come into the university and work with the staff in person. All of the course lecturers were so helpful and knowledgeable, and I’m still in touch with some of them in a friendly capacity.
What did you like about the campus/facilities?
I loved getting access to the art studio, although sometimes other students would leave it in a terrible state, which we would have to clean up before we could start our own work. It was nice to have such a large space available to work in, especially with the screen-printing machine and other technology that I didn’t have access to at home.
Were there any other achievements you gained, on your journey?
I took part in both the D&AD and RSA competitions this year and last, and although I didn’t win, it was still really nice to be able to complete a set brief and deliver the project.
Upon starting your course, did you have a clear idea of the career path you wanted to follow after UHI Perth?
Not a clue! I didn’t figure out what I wanted to do until I was doing my degree.
Are you currently employed?
Currently, I am employed at Active Kids Adventure Park as a café and play assistant. It’s not really as creative as I would like, but my boss tries to make some opportunities for me to do something artsy, which is super thoughtful of them!
Do you feel your studies have helped you with your career? Was there anything you did whilst at UHI Perth that you think helped you secure your job?
If my social skills hadn’t improved, I don’t think I could have got a job, since I was so anxious about interviews.
What were the steps you took from graduation to your current role?
I worked here before I graduated.
Where would you like to go with your career in the future?
I would love to be an illustrator and concept artist and have big plans to write and illustrate my own comics. I’d like to attend more markets and conventions and have done a few small ones in the past year.
Did you enjoy studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
Despite there being many ups and downs (including a global pandemic and health struggles), I have really enjoyed studying at UHI Perth. I think I’m going to miss it now that I’ve graduated.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
Take care of yourself! Your health and wellbeing are the most important thing, so don’t overdo it and make yourself ill. You’ve got this! 😀
