MBA graduate Fiona shares her experience studying online at RGU and juggling university with a full-time job and new-born.
My background
Hi I’m Fiona, I live in Aberdeenshire and work in integrity monitoring in the oil and gas industry and have undertaken various science-based roles from lab work, offices, to rotational offshore shifts, since graduating from my first degree at Robert Gordon University in Forensic Science with Chemistry in 2010.
I wanted to learn more about business management and submitted an application to study at RGU for the part-time, online MBA course which was successful. I then joined the cohort in September 2022.
My experience studying flexibly online
The course lectures were held in the evening, which allowed me to log on after finishing work. The course being online-based gave the flexibility to watch the lectures at a later time that was more suitable on occasions when I could not join the live sessions, as the presentations were uploaded onto the university portal.
The coursework dates were mentioned early in the semester to allow students to plan ahead and meet the submission deadline. During the second semester, I became pregnant and juggled the end of the course with a new-born which was challenging at times.
The highlight of the MBA course was meeting the RGU lecturers and fellow students in person during Leadership Week who travelled lengthy distances to be in Aberdeen for the occasion. This was an intense week in which I learned a lot from the lectures, guest speakers, group work and business simulation.
The final consultant project was also a highlight of the degree which allowed me to contribute to my employer with a research project by guidance from an RGU project supervisor. Once this was completed, I presented my project to my colleagues. It was great to share my research and put it into practice.
Finally, the graduation was a great sense of achievement to celebrate the completion of the degree with fellow students and my family. I now look forward to applying my learnings to my career.
International student Twinkle quit her job in student recruitment in India and moved to Aberdeen to study a master’s in Digital Marketing. She shares how her role recruiting students inspired her to go back to university and her experience adapting to life in Scotland.
Life has an uncanny way of coming full circle. My journey from recruiting students in India to becoming a student myself has been one of the most profound and humbling experiences of my life. It’s a story of transitions, challenges, and the incredible growth that comes when you step out of your comfort zone. In this blog, I’ll take you through the highs and lows of this transformation, share real-time facts from my experiences, and reflect on what this journey has taught me.
My passion for education and guiding students started early in my career. As someone who has always believed in the power of education to transform lives, I found immense joy in helping students navigate their academic paths. I always had good communication and convincing skills, which I made the best use of in counselling and continuously upgrading my skills. For years, I worked as a Senior Admissions Counsellor, engaging with students and parents, addressing their concerns, and matching them with the right opportunities.
I helped countless students shape their futures, and the satisfaction of seeing them succeed was deeply fulfilling. However, along the way, I realized that I, too, longed for growth and new experiences. I wanted to step into the very world I had been advocating for—to become a student once again and gain a fresh perspective on higher education.
The beginning: My career path and recruiting students in India
My career began with a strong foundation in education. I completed my Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) in 2018, followed by an MBA in 2020. Soon after, I stepped into the professional world as a Senior Admissions Counsellor, recruiting students and guiding them through their educational journeys. This role demanded a deep understanding of young minds, the ability to empathize with their aspirations, and the skills to guide them toward their dreams. Each day, I worked with students and families navigating the maze of educational opportunities. It was both fulfilling and challenging.
I vividly remember the pride in a student’s eyes when they received an offer from their dream university, and the relief in parents’ faces when their child’s future felt secure. But it wasn’t always smooth sailing. Convincing students to step out of their comfort zones and helping families overcome financial and emotional hurdles were significant challenges. Still, the work was meaningful, and I loved being a part of their journey.
The turning point: Becoming a student
Despite the rewarding nature of my work, there was always a part of me that longed for personal growth—to experience the very journey I was advocating for. This inner calling led me to take a bold step: I decided to pursue higher studies myself.
Making this decision was not easy. Questions plagued me: Was I too late to go back to being a student? Could I adapt to the academic pressures and cultural shifts of studying abroad? Would I regret leaving a stable career? Ultimately, the desire to grow and learn won out over fear, and I embarked on this life-altering path.
Throughout this journey, I was fortunate to have the unwavering support of my parents, my boss and my managers. They not only motivated me but also stood by my decision, ensuring I never doubted myself. Their encouragement helped me choose MSc Digital Marketing—a flagship course in today’s digital-first world. Their belief in my potential played a pivotal role in helping me take this leap of faith.
Choosing MSc Digital Marketing as my career path felt natural. I have always been passionate about creating content, whether it was making social media posts, crafting engaging reels, or coming up with creative ideas. This interest in digital creativity made Digital Marketing an ideal subject for me, and I’m thrilled to have taken this step.
Why I chose RGU
Choosing Robert Gordon University (RGU) as my priority university felt personal from day one. The connection between RGU and my organization was always very strong, which made me choose RGU without any second thought. After spending three years recruiting students to RGU for their bachelor’s and master’s programmes, I had an in-depth understanding of the University’s values and offerings.
RGU consistently stands out for its high student satisfaction and excellent employment rates. I also received glowing feedback from previously recruited students who spoke highly of their experience at RGU. These factors, combined with my familiarity and trust in the institution, solidified my decision to join. It felt like a natural continuation of my journey.
Adding to this, I was also chosen to be a Student Ambassador for RGU, which gave me a wider space to be a part of the University and truly immerse myself in its culture. This was an incredibly prideful moment for me, as it allowed me to represent the University and help new students navigate their own journeys.
Living in Aberdeen: A dream come true
Aberdeen is a city where culture and sophistication meet, making it a truly unique place to live. Every day, I wake up to a beautiful new view of the city, and each day feels like a dream come true. The city’s charm lies in its blend of history, modernity, and stunning landscapes.
Aberdeen has its own distinct vibe—one that is warm and welcoming. The people here are incredibly kind and supportive, which has made my transition so much smoother. Walking through the quaint streets, exploring the coastline, and experiencing the vibrant student community have all made me feel at home. I am immensely grateful for choosing Aberdeen as the city to live in, as it has enriched my journey in ways I never imagined.
Back in India, I never thought I would experience my life’s first snowfall in the UK, and trust me, it was all worth it. My beautiful city was covered in snow, and every walk was mesmerizing. It felt like a dream to see Aberdeen draped in white, making my experience here even more magical.
Struggles and challenges faced
Transitioning from a recruiter to a student was humbling, to say the least. Suddenly, I was on the other side, grappling with the very uncertainties I had once helped others navigate.
Cultural Adjustments: Moving to a new country meant adapting to different customs, teaching styles, and social norms. It was both exciting and overwhelming.
Academic Pressure: The rigor of coursework, coupled with the need to excel, was a sharp contrast to my professional routine. Time management became a daily battle.
Emotional Hurdles: From missing home to questioning my decision during tough times, the emotional weight was significant. I often found myself reflecting on the students I had guided and gaining a newfound respect for their resilience.
Financial Management: Balancing tuition fees, living expenses, and part-time work added another layer of complexity to the journey.
Lessons learned along the way
Despite the struggles, this experience has been incredibly enriching. Here are some of the key lessons I’ve learned:
Empathy Deepened: Experiencing the challenges of being a student first-hand has made me more empathetic. I now understand, on a visceral level, the courage it takes to leave behind familiarity in pursuit of education.
Perspective Gained: Being a student again reminded me that learning is a continuous journey. It’s not just about acquiring knowledge but about personal growth and adaptability.
Humility and Resilience: The setbacks I faced taught me to stay grounded and persistent. Each obstacle became an opportunity to grow stronger.
Moments of joy
For all the challenges, there were countless moments of joy that made the journey worthwhile:
Building Friendships: I formed bonds with classmates from around the world, learning from their diverse experiences and perspectives.
Achieving Milestones: From acing difficult exams to completing projects, each accomplishment felt like a personal victory.
Personal Growth: The confidence I’ve gained through this journey is immeasurable. I’ve discovered strengths I didn’t know I had.
Reflections on the journey
Looking back, I’m filled with gratitude for the path I chose. Transitioning from a recruiter to a student has given me a unique dual perspective. I now see the education system through two lenses—as someone who once guided students and as someone who’s experienced their struggles firsthand.
If I could offer advice to anyone considering a similar path, it would be this: Embrace change. Growth happens when you challenge yourself, even when it’s uncomfortable. The courage to step out of your comfort zone can lead to some of the most rewarding experiences of your life.
Conclusion: The dual perspective
My journey has come full circle, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Being both a recruiter and a student has given me insights I could never have gained otherwise. As I look toward the future, I’m excited to blend these experiences—to guide others with empathy and to continue learning with an open heart.
To anyone reading this: “Conquer your dreams” Keep chasing them, and don’t be afraid to reinvent yourself along the way. Life has a way of surprising you, often in the best ways possible.
RGU alumna Splendour shares her experience moving from Nigeria to Aberdeen to study a master’s in Analytical Science. She tells us about the highlights of her course, campus facilities, and how the degree has benefitted her.
A little bit about me
Hello, my name is Splendour, and I’m a proud graduate of RGU, with an MSc in Analytical Sciences, specialising in Food Analysis, Authenticity, and Safety.
My passion for scientific research, and the quality of food that we consume led me to pursue this degree. Studying at RGU has been a transformative experience, both academically and personally, and I’m excited to share my journey with you.
Choosing to study at RGU
When searching for a master’s programme, I wanted a course that combined practical laboratory experience with industry relevance. RGU stood out due to its strong emphasis on applied learning, state-of-the-art facilities, graduate employability, and close links to the industry.
My specialisation in Food Analysis, Authenticity, and Safety was based on my experience with food security and quality control in my home country. I have come to learn the importance of food safety, and sustainability in both Nigeria and globally.
Studying MSc Analytical Science at RGU
One of the most rewarding aspect of my time at RGU was the opportunity to engage in practical research. I had the privilege of working in advanced laboratories, with brilliant lecturers who were willing to help at any time. Furthermore, using cutting-edge techniques gave me real-world exposure to the challenges and innovations in the food industry.
Another standout experience was collaborating with peers from diverse backgrounds. My lab partners made my research work quite enjoyable. The exchange of ideas, perspectives, and experiences enriched my learning and broadened my global outlook on scientific research.
Living in Aberdeen and accessing RGU’s campus
Aberdeen provided a unique and welcoming environment for my studies. The supportive learning environment at RGU, combined with the city’s multicultural community, made adapting to life in Scotland enjoyable.
The RGU campus is truly inspiring. The riverside setting, easy bus transportation, cafes and lunch facilities where students often hang out with their friends, and the modern labs and libraries offer everything needed for academic success. One of my favourite places was the Sir Ian Wood Building, where I spent countless hours working on experiments and projects. The access to top-tier research facilities made a significant difference in my learning journey.
The takeaways from my experience at RGU
The MSc in Analytical Sciences has provided me with invaluable skills that are essential in my field. From laboratory techniques to industry standards and problem-solving, I feel well equipped to pursue a career in food analysis and quality assurance. The industry connections I made at RGU and the practical knowledge gained during my degree will undoubtedly open doors for future opportunities.
Beyond technical skills, this experience has also enhanced my confidence to communicate effectively, adaptability, and ability to work in diverse teams, which are vital qualities in any professional setting.
Studying at RGU has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I made solid connections with my teachers, made friends, and learned life skills from another perspective. As I move forward in my career, I am grateful for the knowledge and experiences gained at RGU, and I look forward to applying them to make a meaningful impact in my field.
RGU alumnus Mark has developed a successful career after graduating from BA (Hons) Management, taking on a variety of positions. Now leading a large team for an AI company, he shares how RGU helped him get to where he is now.
Why did you choose to study Business at RGU?
I chose to study Management at RGU because in truth, I had no real idea what I wanted to be when I grew up… and I think that may still be partially true now!
I did know that I found the business world fascinating, and that a flexible degree with many possible exit paths felt like it would give me a load of options once I had finished university, and that in some ways I could figure it out as I went along.
The Management degree at RGU gave me exactly the variety that I was seeking. The degree structure allowed me to learn, to a decent depth, about the core functions of any business – HR, Operations, Marketing, Legal, Finance, etc – without me feeling trapped in any way into having to enjoy or choose one over another at such an early stage in my life.
My career after graduation
Now, I am about 12 years into my career and have had the privilege of working in almost all of these functions for some of the biggest companies in the UK. The core principles of how to approach problem solving (and business is just problem solving!) that I learned from my degree have given me an incredible foundation from which to build on, and given me the springboard into learning a lot more as I have progressed in my career.
The job that I do now (leading a large, multi-continent team for an AI company) did not exist 12 years ago. However, I do think that the grounding, business understanding and the mental acuity that a Management degree from RGU offers, is as good a way as any to equip yourself for the jobs of the future.
And so whilst you also may not know what you want to be when you grow up, I’d consider that to be a strength from which you can build variety and flexibility into your studies and early years of your career, and Management or a similar degree from RGU is a great place to start.
The annual RGU Hack, led by the RGU Computing Society, is back on Saturday 22 February and Sunday 23 February with several leading sponsors. Previous Hackathon winner Rohith tell us how his team managed to come out on top and shares advice to those participating this year to make the most of the opportunity.
We were a ragtag crew of four—three technical newbies and one nontechnical dynamo—ready to disrupt the status quo at the RGU Hackathon. With zero experience in machine learning but a hunger to push our limits, we dove headfirst into one of the toughest challenges on the menu. And guess what? We came out on top!
The Challenge: Embrace the Unknown!
Walking into the hackathon, we had no roadmap. Competing against fierce teams from Glasgow, Edinburgh, and beyond, the energy in the room was electric. Our mantra was simple: win at any cost!
Every moment was a high-stakes sprint, and we were all in—fueled by determination and raw ambition.
Teamwork under pressure
Diverse skills, one mission: We may have been newbies, but our mix of fresh perspectives turned obstacles into opportunities.
Communication is King: Clear, rapid-fire communication kept us in sync and laser-focused on our goal.
Smart commitments: Overcommitting kills momentum. We aimed to commit less and deliver more—every single hour counted!
Survival essentials for the win
Hackathons aren’t just about brainpower; they’re a test of endurance, so:
Pack the Basics: Laptop charger? Check. Mobile charger? Check. Snacks and drinks are covered by RGU.
Stay Comfortable: You get to chill and relax and work anywhere inside the University but, bring a pillow, water bottle, and even a bedsheet. (Yes, the campus is warm, but comfort fuels creativity!)
Camp It Out: The hack wraps up at noon, with winners announced after the demo. Stay on campus to catch every electrifying moment.
Networking: The ultimate hack
Employees from companies will be hanging out with you for a short bit, and it’s always a good idea to get more perspective of the problem they want solution for. Give them what they need and beyond. Beyond the code, the hackathon is a goldmine for connections:
Team Up Early: Don’t just stick with familiar faces. Seek out new teammates—diversity breeds innovation!
Pizza & Drinks Breaks: Every four hours, you will have a break. While waiting in a queue, take the chance to connect and transform the down time into an epic brainstorming session. Chat over pizza, share ideas, and build relationships that could be your ticket to future opportunities.
Industry Insider Access: Rub elbows with top professionals from leading Aberdeen companies. These connections are not just chance meetings—they can pave the way to your dream career.
Grit, Grind, and a Dash of Guts
Our hackathon journey was a whirlwind:
Mindset of a Champion: The singular focus was victory—win at any cost. Every line of code, every late-night brainstorm, and every caffeine-fueled minute was dedicated to crushing the competition.
Learning on the Fly: Even with early-stage, clunky versions of ChatGPT (think slow and clumsy code engine), we learned to adapt and innovate. Every challenge was a stepping stone toward our win.
Final Takeaways for Aspiring Hackers
Embrace the Challenge: Don’t fear the unknown. Tackling a tough project head-on sparks the most innovative solutions.
Work Smart, Not Just Hard: Prioritise quality over quantity. Commit strategically, and always deliver more than you promise.
Network Like a Pro: Use every break, every conversation, as an opportunity. These moments might just open doors to your future.
Conclusion
Winning the RGU Hackathon wasn’t just a triumph—it was an adrenaline-fueled lesson in teamwork, resilience, and the power of daring to dream big. This opened me up to an opportunity for an interview with the company. For all the first-timers and aspiring hackers out there: gear up, prepare with passion, and let your ambition lead the way. Your next breakthrough—and perhaps your future career—starts with taking that bold leap!
Third-year midwifery student Emma shares her experience of the course and placements, and how she has been supported with her dyslexia and dysgraphia at RGU.
How I enrolled at RGU
I’m Emma, and I’m currently a third-year student midwife at RGU.
From a young age, I knew I always wanted to care for and look after people. It was a toss-up between cancer nursing and midwifery for me. However, midwifery just stuck; everyone knew I was focused on becoming a midwife.
I attended the RGU Open Day with my family, and I got to speak with the lecturers and 3rd-year students. This really solidified that I wanted to attend RGU as I could see myself thriving there. So, I was absolutely delighted when I got my offer.
Recently, I had a full circle moment as I was the third year that was helping with the open days, talking to the applicants and showing me how far I had come from being there myself.
My experience with Midwifery at RGU
I feel like my time studying midwifery at RGU has gone by extremely fast, but it’s been so enjoyable. The staff have been so supportive, as this course is intense at times. I would encourage the use of personal tutors, Study Skills and the Inclusion Centre as they have been amazing through my official diagnosis of dyslexia and dysgraphia, putting in place reasonable adjustments in theory modules and placement.
Placements at first were daunting. However, you slowly get into the swing of things, consolidate your learning and pick up tips from each midwife. A massive highlight is being there for women and their families on such a special journey. It will always be such a privilege for me to be a part of this.
The team was so supportive when I was nervous about switching health boards for my placement in 2nd year from NHS Grampian to NHS Tayside. I was excited to be home for placement but anxious to have to re-learn some things and find my way around a new hospital. However, my personal tutor showed me around Ninewells to get my bearings and help with the stress of where I was to go, and I got to meet the lovely staff that was on shift that day, putting me at ease.
I was also lucky enough to be selected for the interprofessional learning day with the 4/5th year medical students from Aberdeen University running through simulations of obstetric emergencies. It was fun running through these scenarios seeing how far I had come from first year.
My aspirations after graduation
I hope to become a midwife either in the wards or in the labour suite as I enjoy building relationships with women over multiple shifts and how rewarding each shift makes you feel like you have made a difference.
For Student Volunteering Week 2025, we are shining a light on RGU’s Student School Officers. School Officers are responsible for listening to student feedback, working in partnership with staff to make enhancements, and representing their peers.
Research student Kamo shares his experience as the first Student School Officer for the Graduate School at RGU.
Applying to become the first Student School Officer at the Graduate School
When I stepped into the role of Student School Officer for postgraduate researchers in October 2024, I knew I was embarking on something special. As the first person to hold this position, I saw an opportunity to make a real difference in our research community at RGU.
The path to this role began with the observation that postgraduate research can often be a solitary journey and also that there is a need for researchers to find ways of applying their research through this solitary journey. While RGU typically bustles with activities, research students can sometimes feel disconnected from the wider student body and union activities. This realisation sparked my desire to create meaningful connections between our research community and the broader university experience so that even research students who are engaged in teaching can get to feel like students.
Taking on this pioneering role began with a straightforward application process. After the nomination phase, I found myself scheduled for an interview with Student Union President Seth Odei, and the Dean of the Graduate School, Professor Sarah Pedersen, alongside two other candidates. The excitement was palpable – each of us, from the feelers I got, eager to contribute to our research community’s development. Once appointed, I quickly discovered that this role would become an integral part of my research journey, though one that would require careful balance.
My experience of the role and how it has benefitted me
That balance has proved both challenging and rewarding. There are days when my calendar seems to genuinely burst at the seams, particularly since the role comes with seats at numerous university tables and committees.
Yet, what keeps me going is the genuine satisfaction of serving my fellow researchers. It’s not just about ticking boxes or attending meetings – it’s about making a tangible difference in how our postgraduate research community connects and thrives.
The most fulfilling aspect of my role has been the personal interactions. As a point of contact for colleagues facing various challenges, I regularly visit researchers in their hubs and engage in conversations that range from casual chats to deeper discussions about their research experiences. Whether I’m listening to success stories or helping someone through a difficult period, these authentic connections remind me why I took on this role in the first place.
I’ve noticed significant growth in my own abilities too. The position has enhanced my interpersonal skills and social confidence in ways I hadn’t anticipated. Each interaction, whether with fellow researchers, staff members, or university leadership, has contributed to my professional development. I’ve learned to navigate different perspectives, mediate discussions, and advocate effectively for our research community’s needs.
My advice to students wanting to step into a similar role
As I look ahead to October 2025, when new candidates will hopefully step forward to continue this work, I feel optimistic about the foundation we’re building. To anyone considering taking on a similar role, I’d say this: don’t underestimate the impact you can have. Yes, it requires careful time management and dedication, but the opportunity to shape the university experience for your peers is incredibly rewarding.
For future Student School Officers, my advice would be to remain approachable and genuine in your interactions. Listen more than you speak, and remember that sometimes the most important part of your role is simply being there for your colleagues. The position isn’t just about formal meetings and reports – it’s about building a community where every researcher feels supported and connected.
As the first person in this role, I am having the privilege of laying the groundwork for future officers. While pioneering a new position comes with its challenges, it also offers the unique opportunity to shape its direction and impact. This journey embodies three essential elements of leadership: Voice. Vision. Voyage.
For Student Volunteering Week 2025, we are shining a light on RGU’s Student School Officers. School Officers are responsible for listening to student feedback, working in partnership with staff to make enhancements, and representing their peers.
When I first heard about the opportunity to become a Student School Officer (SSO) at RGU, I knew I had to apply. I genuinely care about the Scott Sutherland School and wanted to leave a lasting impression, contributing to meaningful change within the school. As someone who is confident and comfortable speaking to almost anyone, I knew I would thrive in this role.
The application process was straightforward and gave me an opportunity to truly reflect on my motivations. It allowed me to pinpoint exactly what I wanted to focus on as an SSO. The interview process was a great platform for me to showcase my personality and discuss my involvement in various activities throughout my studies, such as co-presiding over the 5710 Architecture Society.
It felt natural to express my drive for student advocacy and leadership – although I was still nervous about having a Teams interview with a tutor I’d known for five years – because, let’s be honest, there’s nothing quite like trying to sound professional while knowing they’ve witnessed you sleep-deprived and stress-eating during review/deadline season.
What I’ve been doing as a Student School Officer and balancing it with my studies
Since stepping into the role, I have been involved in a diverse range of activities. I have taken part in course validation panels, attended external events such as the NE Build Your Future event, and played an active role in RIAS, particularly within the education committee. Additionally, I have been part of the Student Experience Sub-Committee (SESC), which has introduced me to some fantastic people and given me insight into the incredible work that goes into ensuring students remain the University’s top priority.
Assisting in the Build your Futures event which engaged with local secondary schools.Connections with Scott Sutherland School Alumni at national events through RIAS
Balancing this role with my studies has been manageable, as I am accustomed to taking on multiple commitments. I thrive in a busy environment and view these additional responsibilities as opportunities to develop soft skills that extend beyond academic studies. I enjoy being the ‘yes’ man, signing myself up for as many enriching experiences as possible. These experiences contribute to my overall growth and make my university journey even more fulfilling.
My favourite aspects of the role
One of my favourite aspects of being an SSO is gaining insight into the behind-the-scenes operations of the University. Seeing the dedication and hard work of staff to enhance the student experience is truly inspiring. The networking opportunities that come with the role are incredible, offering chances to meet influential people in the field.
However, what I love most is being a support system for students, especially younger ones. Speaking to a tutor can sometimes feel daunting, whereas having a fellow student to confide in creates a more approachable and relatable support system.
How the role has benefitted me
This role has significantly benefitted both my personal and professional development. It allows me to engage in responsibilities beyond my studies, breaking away from the standard academic experience. The organisational skills and commitment required have given me a glimpse into what working life will be like.
Moreover, meeting influential people and realising that they are just human beings like the rest of us has been eye-opening. Many students feel intimidated by those in high positions, but this role has helped me overcome that perception and engage confidently with professionals – whilst being myself!
Why should other students get involved in volunteering roles?
For any student considering applying for an SSO or similar role at RGU, I highly encourage you to go for it. If you want to expand your knowledge and skillset beyond your primary field of study, this is the perfect opportunity. You may even discover a new niche that you love, opening doors to different career paths. Moreover, being able to make a real change in the school and the University is incredibly rewarding, especially within such a large institution.
My advice for future SSOs would be to have confidence in your abilities and be willing to step up for new opportunities. You never know where these experiences might lead. Not only will they provide you with invaluable skills to discuss with future employers, but they could also open doors within RGU itself if you decide to pursue a career in higher education. The impact you can make is incredible, and I highly recommend embracing the opportunity.
