RGU student Gail shares her career journey living across different countries and her decision to go to university years later to study the online Business Management course to fit around her busy life.
A bit about me and my career
My journey back to education has been a long and convoluted one. Towards the end of high school, I applied to university as that was the “done thing”, but I ultimately decided that higher education was not the right path for me. At that stage, I thought that I would never pursue further formal education.
My career since leaving school has seen me grow exponentially, personally as well as professionally. It hasn’t always been linear – I never thought I would learn much working on a cattle station in Australia or in a factory in New Zealand, but these are some of the experiences that I look back on and can see how much I grew.
This growth was really kickstarted when I found the tourism industry. I started out as a cleaner in a hostel in Brisbane and from there progressed to a supervisor role, and then on to managing a hostel. After a while, I found myself taking a step back from the customer facing side of tourism and I am now an Organisational Development Manager for a leading online travel agent.
Deciding to go to university
I have learned a lot through life experience and on the job training, however, over the course of a few years, I began to realise how beneficial formal learning may be to my career development. Especially exposing me to aspects of business that I may not yet have experience in and may not get the chance to in my current role.
After doing a LOT of research, I found the Business Management online course at RGU and it was like a light switched on. A course that I could fit around work as well as life sounded almost too good to be true.
My experience studying the Business Management online course
I’m not going to lie, heading back to school as a *ahem* mature student, was daunting and I definitely doubted myself. But the team at the Aberdeen Business School alleviated those fears from the very beginning.
The course has been inclusive, informative and I have really enjoyed learning from the team. The discussions within the class push people out of their comfort zones just enough to really get the best out of them. The flexibility of online learning has meant that I can watch lectures in my own time and at my own pace and with a busy life, this has been key to my enjoyment of this course so far.
I always like to challenge myself and I have found that this course has been the perfect thing for my life right now. Coming to this with work and life experience has added a layer of depth to my learning that I don’t think I would have had, had I gone to higher education back when I was 18.
Doing this course has made me realise that it’s never too late to invest in yourself and that is something I will carry with me for a long time.
Fine Art student Kirsty shares her journey from studying an undergraduate degree in Painting at Gray’s School of Art, RGU, to staying for a master’s to develop her research and practice further.
Starting my art journey at RGU
When choosing what university to study at, I had a bit of a hard time making the decision, mainly because it was during COVID-19 which meant that I couldn’t visit the University for its open days. Still, I was able to visit Aberdeen and something about the campus and university was a big draw for me without having entered the buildings. It felt like Aberdeen had a comfortable balance between being a city and having places to go that felt quieter and more relaxed. I grew up in a small town and spent a lot of time in rural areas so I liked having the mix.
Once I had decided to move to Aberdeen and study at Gray’s School of Art, I couldn’t have been happier with my decision. I had so many worries about what studying art would really be like, whether I would receive harsh criticism, would my work be ‘good enough’, would I fit in? I had a lot of doubts but in reality, it could not have been further from that.
Whilst we [students] do have feedback and ‘crits’ with staff and peers, it has always been very constructive and given in a way that helps us improve and work towards a vision. It has also opened my eyes to much bigger and broader ideas that I hadn’t even considered, and my work began to change immensely for what I believe is the better. My research became something I really enjoyed and it began to drive my work, which was not necessarily the case before as I always struggled with reading, but once I found the texts and research topic that interested me, it became easier.
My experience on the Painting course
The painting lecturers were phenomenal at providing support. Helping me sort out the formalities in my work and honing me in on making my exhibitions make more sense has been very helpful and ultimately is what guided me towards such a successful degree show with two awards (RSA New Contemporaries & RGU Art and Heritage Collection).
I gained a lot of confidence through being able to speak in depth about my work and that is why I also took a chance in my final year of undergraduate to apply to various awards, residencies and opportunities alongside the ones that are arranged by Gray’s. I didn’t necessarily think I would win any, but I had the confidence to at least apply and try. With that, I managed to get an award with Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST). This has allowed me to undertake two courses learning how to make natural pigments, inks, dyes, natural tools and so on, which I am now doing alongside my master’s programme (many of these opportunities were sign posted by lecturers on our Moodle).
Choosing to come back to Gray’s to study a master’s in Fine Art
So, what I am trying to say is that my undergraduate studies really put me in good stead for going on to do a postgraduate course. One of the things that really led me in the direction of the master’s in Fine Art is, that during my undergraduate course, I discovered a great interest in my area of study into Scottish culture and plants.
I felt that, while I was really happy with my dissertation in 4th year, there was also so much more information and research I did that could not fit, and I wanted to continue my research with the support of an institution like Gray’s where I have access to tutors’ advice. Also, I thought there was so much more to explore within my creative practice as well – hence applying for the QEST funding.
I knew there was so much more to learn and I wanted to have an environment where I could continue to do that.
Differences between undergraduate and postgraduate studies at Gray’s
The biggest difference I have noticed is that the undergraduate course really focused on finding your area of interest. There was a focus on experimenting with various ideas with a wide array of possibilities for where your work can go, and then having those one-to-one chats with your personal tutor to help see what, out of everything you are learning, actually interests you as an individual as well as giving us advice for how we can better curate our work and connect everything together.
A focus on research and practice in the master’s
The classes focused on ‘studio’ and those focused on ‘critical and contextual studies’ (CCS) were also somewhat disparate in the undergraduate. You didn’t necessarily need to connect your CCS research to the work that you were creating in the studio, though some people did, not everyone chose to. What I have noticed most from the postgraduate course is that CCS and studio have become much more linked.
The master’s continues to introduce us to more research areas and topics with somewhat more challenging texts to read, and there is a good level of independent study whilst still having quite a lot of student-tutor contact. Because I have that background of having done my undergraduate, I am confident in what I am currently doing in the master’s, which allows me to work more independently.
I know what area of study I am interested in at this point, and what I am learning from the master’s is expanding upon the research I did in the undergraduate, and developing upon my studio practice as well. The undergraduate got me to a stage where I finally found out what I wanted to do with my art and it was really just the beginning of my more refined art practice that I am delving deeper into now.
Because I have such a strong interest in my research area, I have even considered going on to do a PhD in the topic area of Scottish Culture and plant connections with a dream of one day writing a book. This is something I never would have considered doing in the past but with the support of lecturers and fellow students too, I feel like it is an opportunity that would be really interesting and exciting as it would allow me the time to create something in a supported environment, which would be much harder to do on my own out with the University.
A quieter environment
The classes are smaller in the postgraduate course, with a much quieter environment than what you have at undergraduate level. The positive side of this is getting to know a wide range of new people from different backgrounds. This includes people who perhaps graduated the same year as you, but from a different department within the school, graduated years ago, or in some cases are new to the scene of study but have been a practising artist for many years.
In your postgraduate course, all the different disciplines come together, CAP, Painting, Ceramics, Sculpture, Fashion, Digital, so it gives such a different perspective. The variety of skills and backgrounds is exciting with the smaller class numbers too as we all get to know each other well and become quite a close little cohort.
Expanding on your artistic practice
Whilst I was able to be quite experimental and playful in my undergraduate, creating sculptures alongside my paintings, within the Fine Art course of the MA I feel that my mixed media approach and creation of different kinds of objects as well as paintings makes more sense being defined within fine art itself than it perhaps did when I was on the painting course.
Alongside this, I have also found myself making much more use of the facilities and workshops available at Gray’s as a master’s student than I did when studying my undergraduate. I am not necessarily sure why I didn’t utilise all the different areas of workshops at Gray’s, perhaps it was because the undergraduate felt more fast-paced in terms of deadlines, but with the master’s introductions/reintroductions to the workshops and facilities, I have found myself experimenting with so many other ways of making.
Why would I recommend a master’s in Fine Arts?
Overall, I really recommend to do the master’s for many reasons. One of those reasons could be the same as my own, that you wish to hone in on your research some more because you felt there was much more you could do with it. Or perhaps you want to develop your artistic practice further because you learned of some new techniques and didn’t get to explore them fully in the undergraduate. Maybe you want to gain more confidence in your work, and I believe there are a lot of nerves that come with leaving art school and the idea of sustaining your practice and finding a job, and you might just want some more time to decide what you want to do. Maybe your goal is to do a PhD and the master’s is a good stepping stone towards that.
Overall, there are many reasons as I said, and I have so far felt that doing the master’s was a good decision for me and has already been so useful in helping me understand what I want and learn more.
RGU offers Graduate Apprenticeship (GA) courses designed around the needs of businesses which allow employees to continue to work while they earn their degree over the course of four years. Emma McGowan, Hire Administrator at STR, is a first-year student on the Business Management GA. She answers our questions about the application process, her experience of the course, and how it has benefitted her and her employer.
How did you first discover RGU’s Graduate Apprenticeship courses?
I first discovered the RGU course when looking for some additional development to expand on my current role. I originally started off looking at the Business Management course at RGU, which I could do online in my spare time. After a conversation with our HR Director Jill, she suggested an alternative version of the course she had recently heard about through Gregg Walker from RGU which would allow me to incorporate my studies with work.
I did some research into it and decided it was something I might be interested in. Gregg came to my workplace to tell me more about the course and to offer me a chance to ask any questions I might have, which I had prepared for.
Can you tell us more about your current role?
My current role at STR is Hire Administrator where I currently deal with the day-to-day admin of our rental equipment as well as the generation of month end invoices. STR are a subsea technology company supporting the energy industry.
How do you think the course will benefit you and your employer?
I hope the course will give me a wider knowledge of the behind-the-scenes workings of the business world. The Graduate Apprenticeship has already given me an insight into areas of the business I wouldn’t have previously been involved in, allowing me to explore new skills and learn new knowledge in different departments of the business.
I believe from taking on this course my employer will see an increase in skill, allowing me to apply my learning into my own role as well as giving suggestions and feedback based on other roles which I collaborate with.
What was your experience like with the application and onboarding process for the course?
The application process was much easier than I had first anticipated, the application form was easy to read and understand. This was then coupled with a copy of my CV and a personal statement. There was no formal interview process as such, myself, my mentor from STR and Gregg had a few meetings between us making sure that the course was the correct fit for me and my employers.
From day 1 of being enrolled on the course I have felt supported by all RGU staff I have come across; all induction information was incredibly clear and all support services very well signposted. The Moodle support page was particularly helpful for me before any of the modules started to give me a feel as to how to use their online services and where to get help if I needed.
I was apprehensive about the induction days, meeting new people and being in a new environment. After the first half an hour of being at the University, I realised everyone was in the same boat and we were all as nervous as each other. I have since formed a good relationship with my study group which I feel has enhanced my experience on the course.
How do you juggle your studies with your full-time work?
I was previously worried about the workload of taking on full time study as well as having a full-time job however, I soon realised that a lot of the work-based learning activities I was able to incorporate into my role with the help of my employer. STR have also been flexible in allowing me to have separated study time to work on my Graduate Apprenticeship, meaning I have felt the transition between full-time learning and full-time work to be easy.
Could you provide examples of how you’ve integrated your studies into your work projects?
The modules have expanded on my communication skills allowing me to integrate new ideas into my workplace. I feel I have had to be more proactive in engaging with other departments at work discussing areas of the business which have innovated new ideas and created efficiency opportunities.
Were there any hurdles in beginning your studies on the Graduate Apprenticeship course, and how have you addressed them?
One of the things I found difficult was the academic writing and referencing part of the assessments. But after discussing with my study group, I found that I wasn’t the only one experiencing this. We shared resources we had found useful from the study skills section of the Moodle as well as accessing support from tutors.
Anything else you would like to add?
RGU has been incredibly supportive so far and I am looking forward to completing the next few years of my course. I feel the content of the course so far has been really interesting and relevant to how I see my professional development progressing going forward.
Emma McGowan
A word from Jill Williamson, HR Director at STR
Engaging with RGU to support Emma to accelerate her learning through the GA programme has been fantastic. Understanding how the course was structured and the supported learning RGU offers was fundamental when we agreed with Emma that this was the right course for both her and STR.
We have worked with Emma to ensure she is able to focus on delivering her role to a high standard in conjunction with her course work and we are exceptionally proud of the commitment she has shown, which has been reflected in her excellent results.
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.
