Student Spotlight - Dylan Halliday
If you’re looking to develop an understanding of administration in the workplace and gain the IT skills required for a role in this sector, we offer a wide range of full-time and part-time courses to suit all abilities.
We also offer the opportunity to study via distance learning and this is exactly what this week’s student is doing.
Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Dylan Halliday, and I am from Dumfries and Galloway.
What course are you studying at UHI Perth, and what year are you currently in?
I am in year one of two, studying the HNC in Administration and Information Technology, via Distance Learning.
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
I was researching different colleges and trying to find a course in Administration, and I found this course which was great for me as I could do it from the comfort of my own home.
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
I was working in retail for around seven years, but I have always enjoyed Administration and IT since I was at school, so I decided to apply and here I am nearing the end of Semester one, and just about to start Semester two.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
I studied Administration and IT at school at Intermediate 2 and Higher level, and thoroughly enjoyed the content. I decided after years out of education that I would return and complete the HNC as this is what most employers look for.
What is your favourite thing about the course?
Being able to learn independently is great for me and all the modules so far have been interesting. I have learnt how to create an out-going mail system, and how to use digital technologies by working with other distance learners in a recent group work task.
Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your course?
The support from other lecturers and fellow students has to standout the most to me. I set up a WhatsApp group just as we were starting semester one and this has helped us tremendously.
What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you when you leave UHI Perth?
I have learned how to write reports, use different technologies, and I am sure there are many more opportunities to come. I am really looking forward to the IT modules as I enjoy doing the IT part as well as theory.
Have you undertaken a placement or work experience whilst at UHI Perth?
I got the opportunity to shadow someone working in an office and they allowed me to do some work on spreadsheets. This experience will be so valuable for my CV.
Have your lecturers been supportive during your studies?
The lecturers are very supportive. All of the lecturers are very approachable, and my PAT Alison Kirk is always there if you have a problem. The feedback you get from assessments allows you to see what exactly you have achieved and what you can do to improve for the next one.
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
Achieving passes on the majority of my work has been an achievement in itself.
What do you like about the campus?
I was only on campus for the open day and the ‘Get Ready for College’ session which was another great source of help when I was about to start my course. The facilities were good on the day, but I don’t come across a lot of the facilities being a distance learner.
Have you enjoyed studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
As a current student, I am enjoying my experience. I think meeting other distance learners through Microsoft Teams and working on a group task has been fun in itself. Everyone is supportive of each other.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of your studies?
I enjoy gaming and socialising with friends when I am not studying the materials for my course.
What are your future career plans?
I am hoping to get a job in the NHS or private companies, when I finish my HNC, as an Administrative Assistant.
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
I would advise anyone to just go with it and apply. You are in for a great experience both for yourself as an individual and academically.
