Tell us about your GCU journey

I chose to study at GCU because...

Choosing to study at Glasgow Caledonian University was a decision shaped by my personal and academic journey. At 24, I made the decision to return to education after leaving school with only a few standard grades under my belt. I knew the path ahead wasn't going to be easy, as I needed between two to four Highers to qualify for a variety of courses, and at that point, I wasn't set on a particular one.

I committed to a three-year plan to work towards these Highers. During my second year at college, I was made aware of a 'pathways course' at GCU for Food Science. The suggestion came from my sister, who thought the course might be something I was interested in as she knew I my goal was to someday work with nutrition.

The most important aspect of my university experience has been...

In reflecting on my university experience, I identified that the utilisation of available resources and receptiveness to feedback have been two crucial elements. Transitioning from college into the third year of university presented a significant change in how things were conducted. I noticed a shift towards more detailed marking schemes and the possibility of obtaining comprehensive feedback.

Initially, this transition was challenging, but it taught me the importance of actively seeking clarification and improvement. I found that making a conscious effort to ask the right questions and engage with the feedback process was instrumental in driving my academic development.

Moreover, building relationships within the university environment, from peers to academic staff, has been a vital aspect of my journey. These connections have provided a supportive framework, aiding me both academically and personally. They have fostered a sense of community that extends beyond the classroom.

The biggest lesson learning so far is...

My most significant lesson revolves around the delicate balancing act between work and leisure. As a student, one of the toughest challenges I've grappled with has been the ability to mentally disconnect from my studies, even when I'm not actively engaged in academic work. It's a common misconception that downtime merely involves a physical break from work, when in fact, it's equally critical to allow our minds respite from the constant cycle of academic thought.

Early in my university life, I often found myself excessively preoccupied with the thought of what tasks lay ahead, sometimes to the point of it being detrimental. However, over the last few years, with the invaluable support of my fiancée and family, I've grown to understand the importance of striking a balance between work and play. This was no easy feat, but their continued support provided me the space to work through this process. I learnt to set clear boundaries between my academic responsibilities and leisure time, recognising that rest is not just deserved, but also essential for productivity.

The results of this newfound balance were evident. The time spent studying became more efficient due to the quality rest I allowed myself. By mitigating the constant worry and allocating specific times to rest my mind, I found my work quality improved significantly. Not only did this affect my academic performance, but it also enhanced my overall quality of life.

The IFST has helped me…

The IFST has played an instrumental role in my university experience, providing invaluable insights into the industry that I would otherwise have struggled to access. Through the IFST, I had the opportunity to join conference calls with industry leaders, listening to their journeys to success, their personal stories of navigating the field, and the diverse roles they've held.

One consistent theme that emerged from these narratives, a theme I wouldn't have encountered as easily without the IFST, was the non-linear paths these industry pioneers had traversed. Many of those in high-ranking positions or those who had founded their own successful businesses had worked in a variety of sectors before reaching their current status. This revelation was not only insightful but also inspiring, giving me excitement for the array of opportunities that lie ahead.

The exposure granted by the IFST reinforced the immense possibilities within the food industry. It demonstrated that a wide range of roles can be experienced throughout your career, provided a strong work ethic is maintained. This revelation was unexpected, but it reassured me that the food science industry was not just a confined sector, but rather a wide industry filled with so many opportunities and career paths.

I’m proud to be part of the University of the Common Good because...

I am proud to have been a student of Glasgow Caledonian University, an institution that actively promotes diversity and inclusion, values that deeply resonate with me. Since the onset of my academic journey at GCU, I have consistently observed the university's commitment to fostering an environment where people from all walks of life – various backgrounds, circumstances, cultures, and disciplines – are not only welcomed but also deeply supported.

In an era where societal challenges such as racism and inequality are at the forefront of global discourse, it's vital for educational institutions to take a leading role in promoting inclusivity and equal opportunity. GCU does exactly this and contributes towards shaping a future that aspires to systemic equality. Cultivating this environment allows for understanding and acceptance. This focus on inclusivity and the university's ongoing efforts to eliminate discrimination make me proud to have been a student here and inspire me to carry these values forward into my future career and life.

I get my inspiration from...

I would say the majority of that inspiration stems from my fiancée, Laura. Over the past few years, Laura has had a significant impact on my understanding of myself and how I approach challenges. She navigates through daily hurdles with determination and consistency, demonstrating that resilience and dedication ultimately do pay off in your career and personally. I have learned from her to be more empathetic and look at others issues from their perspective rather than my own and taking inspiration from her outlook, benefits me everyday.

In addition to Laura, I find unlikely inspiration in the daily antics of my two cats. Their carefree exploration of our home serves as a gentle reminder of the importance of relaxation and the power of living in the moment. They help me realise that there's value in occasionally stepping back from deep analysis and simply appreciating what in front of you.

My next steps look like...

My next step is pursuing a Master’s degree in Human Nutrition at the University of Glasgow, starting this upcoming September. Looking back, my decision to return to education six years ago was fuelled by my interest in well-being, nutrition, and health. My overarching goal has always been to gain a comprehensive understanding of how we can enhance our lives through the food we consume, and to ultimately build a career that aligns with my passion.

Years of effort have been invested towards this goal, and being accepted into the Master’s is the culmination of my academic aspirations. It represents a significant milestone on my journey towards gaining in-depth knowledge of nutrition, while also signalling the end of one phase of my academic journey.

After completion of this final degree, I eagerly look forward to stepping into the professional world and kick-starting my career. This step is something I've been working towards and anticipating for a long time. It will be my chance to apply all the knowledge and skills I've accumulated over the years, and to make meaningful contributions in the food industry.