Current occupation: Risk and Governance Manager/Company Secretary, Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA)
Where studied: Fife College of Technology, Kirkcaldy
I left Woodmill High School at the end of fifth year and was keen to achieve a qualification that would create job opportunities for me. The course (known then as HND Secretarial Studies) was over two years, and just as I was completing it, I got a job in the typing pool at the Crown Office in Edinburgh. I worked there for six years, in various different roles. I then applied for a job in Lauder (now Fife) College and have been there ever since.
While at College I enjoyed learning new practical skills, and I met lots of new friends. My confidence grew throughout the two years and by the time I left, I felt excited about taking my first steps into full-time employment.
I achieved my HND as a Fife College student. When I returned to College as an employee, the Principal encouraged me to upgrade my HND to a degree, and I was able to get exemptions due to previous study which meant I could complete my course in two and a half years instead of four. Having these qualifications enabled me to get promotion, undertake new responsibilities and move into my current role as a Director.
College has played a significant part in my life having studied and worked here. My advice to anyone thinking about a course would be to come to college at any stage of your life. As a school leaver it can be a stepping stone into work or university and our excellent progression routes mean you can finish at the same time as someone who went straight to university from school. And if you’ve been out of learning for a while, it is a fantastic way to learn new skills and increase your confidence. College gives you skills directly relevant to employment opportunities – it’s worked for me and could do the same for you.
