Student Spotlight - David Leslie

At UHI Perth, we have the longest established audio engineering department in Scotland and our reputation in industry is second to none. Our facilities on campus are exactly as you would find when working in industry. We want you to have a successful career in industry, and we ensure that our courses give you the best chance to do so. You can join us either as a novice or experienced user and leave with an Honours degree in audio engineering.

In the blog this week, we meet a student who is just finishing up his first year 👇

Can you introduce yourself?

David Leslie from Perth.

What course are you studying at UHI Perth?

I am studying HNC Sound Production.

How did you hear about UHI Perth?

I heard about UHI Perth as I stay locally, and I have spoken to people who have studied there.

What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?

I was working in hospitality and looking to start my own business.

Why did you decide to pick this course?

I know friends who work in the industry and watching and learning from them made me what to know more.

What is your favourite thing about the course?

Being able to use the studios and get hands-on with different equipment.

Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your course?

I remember my tutor saying “always save your work as you progress”- I forgot to do this one day and lost everything and I had to start again.

Having the chance to enter the UHI Create Highland business competition, which had £8,000-plus in prize money up for grabs.

What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you when you leave UHI Perth?

Using and gaining knowledge of different (DAWS) Digital Audio Workstations; skills in business; remixing adding compression; auto fade.

I have also learnt how to create sounds by using ‘Foley’ and setting up and recording bands - all of this will help me when I leave UHI Perth to build my business and have the skills needed to be able to work in the industry.

Have you undertaken a placement or work experience whilst at UHI Perth?

I have not been in any work placement or work experience, but every so often I am asked by my friend/boss if I would like to get some practice in on the sound desk at his venue. But I would love to be able to go on work experience or placement to gain more experience.

Have your lecturers been supportive during your studies?

My lecturers have been amazing supporting me during my studies and are easy to approach and talk to.

Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?

With some of the skills I have gained so far, I have managed to get my business up and running with some new ideas. My biggest achievement is passing my assessment and being able to do my mental health ambassador training. I also enjoyed helping out at a recent UHI Perth open day.

What do you like about the campus/facilities?

I like that there is a café in every building and I enjoy the food up in the one in the Brahan building. l also like that if I need any help, there is always someone at the reception desk of each building.

Have you enjoyed studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?

I have enjoyed it and hoping that I can continue my studies here next year.

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

I like to do some magnet fishing in my spare time when the weather is nice. I also enjoy working on music remixing, and gaming.

What are your future career plans?

To run a successful business utilising the skills and qualifications I have gained from studying at UHI Perth.

And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?

I would say go for it! I didn’t think I would get accepted, and I am glad I did. There is always something happening around campus to take part in too.

Applications are open for September 2024. Learn more at UHI Perth >>