Student Spotlight - Ailsa Laing
Not everyone knows what they want to study when they leave school, and some may need a little support to be able to follow their chosen career path. At UHI Perth, we provide full and part time courses for people who are ✔️ looking to gain more qualifications to help to progress ✔️ Have not yet decided what they want to do with their future ✔️ Lack the confidence at present to study in a busy College environment ✔️ Want to return to study and want to brush up existing skills or learn new ones ✔️ Want to improve their employability chances ✔️ Want to find an entry point to another curriculum area ✔️ Want to study in a community setting.
After returning to education as a mature student, Ailsa has flourished and now is on the path to a career in the music industry 🎶. She chatted to us about her time so far👇
Can you introduce yourself?
Ailsa Jane Laing from Perth.
What course are you studying at UHI Perth, and what year are you currently in?
I started my journey at UHI Perth doing the Connect course, from this course I was told about Return 2 Learn and thought it would be a great fit for me, as I was wanting to get back into education. Having been out of education for over a decade, I felt it eased me into UHI Perth and prepared me for higher education within the college. I am currently on the Gateway to Creative Industries course; this course has allowed me to experience different aspects within the creative industries. I have always been interested in music and it allowed me to choose a path that suits me and my needs.
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
My therapist told me about the Connect course and thought it would be a great opportunity for me (it was!)
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
I was a hospitality manager for over a decade, but my health meant I had to stop working.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
I have always been creative, I enjoyed art and music in school and wanted to take it further.
What is your favourite thing about the course?
Being able to try and experience loads of different aspects of the creative industries from, music to movies, there has been loads of fun projects and I’ve enjoyed it thoroughly.
Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your course?
In my audio class we were tasked with planning, writing, and making a podcast. This was incredible fun - the team and I had loads of laughs and it was super interesting finding out about how the technology works and how much work goes into a podcast.
What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you when you leave UHI Perth?
I have a better understanding of the technology that the creative industries use. I have also learned not to take myself too seriously and to have fun (thanks classmates)!
Have your lecturers been supportive during your studies?
Yes, the lecturers are always happy to help. And the support staff are incredibly helpful - Amy is the best!
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
I was accepted into NC Sound Engineering.
What do you like about the campus/facilities?
The audio department have fantastic facilities.
Have you enjoyed studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
I have enjoyed reconnecting with people, and it’s been fun having a class of different ages. We have all learned from each other, which has been amazing.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of your studies?
I enjoy seeing live music, taking photographs, and playing video games.
What are your future career plans?
I am hoping to work within the music industry.
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
Go for it! As an older student, I had so many worries when I took the plunge to come, and it’s just been amazing. It’s been loads of fun and I’ve learned so much from the lecturers and my classmates. Just go for it!
