Reuben and Laurie Impress College Judges

Every year Shetland College UHI recognises the achievements of two students who have particularly stood out during their studies. This year Reuben Conroy (HNC Computing) was awarded the Higher Education (HE) prize and Laurie Carter (New Directions) was awarded the Further Education (FE) prize. Both were put forward for the overall University of the Highlands and Islands Student of the Year awards.

Staff and students are encouraged to submit nominations for those who have done particularly well academically or shown significant personal development. The applications were judged by Willie Shannon, Joint Interim Principal; Susan Berry, Acting Depute Principal; and Peter Campbell, Chair of the College Board.

Reuben’s nomination from the computing department was ‘unanimous and without question,’ with staff consistently impressed with his self-motivation, academic ability and mature attitude towards his studies. Reuben designed and developed an Augmented Reality Sandbox as part of a team project - an impressive piece of work produced at a level above that expected for his HNC course. All judges were particularly impressed that Reuben has excelled in his computing course despite the fact he came from a school without a subject specialist teacher. Reuben will be continuing his studies this year on HND Computer Science. 'I am very thrilled to be receiving the award,' he explained, 'it has been an amazing year working alongside other wonderful students and very supportive staff. I have thoroughly enjoyed the college and higher education experience.'

Laurie started her New Directions course with a lack of confidence in some areas of her studies, but has overcome this to impress her tutors with her conscientious, hard-working approach to learning. Even though Laurie had to balance her college studies with the demands of being a mum to two young children, her work was of a consistently high standard and she was encouraging and supportive of her fellow students. Following a successful interview Laurie will be continuing her college studies on the ‘Access to Apply for Nursing’ Course. ‘I have thoroughly enjoyed my year of studying here and my improved grades have already helped me progress,’ said Laurie, ‘it was an honour to have been nominated for the 'FE Student of the Year' award, let alone receive it! I'm delighted! I would like to thank everyone that believed in me, your support means a lot.’

Willie Shannon, Interim Joint Principal, highlighted ‘the positive experiences of students from across the college. All presented well at interview and deserve congratulations for being nominated for the Student of the Year awards. Our two overall winners, Reuben and Laurie, should be very proud of what they have achieved and I look forward to welcoming them both back for further study in 2017-18.'

Peter Campbell, Chair of the College Board, said: ‘once again the calibre of student nominations was very high, which reflects the high standard of learning and teaching at Shetland College UHI. Reuben and Laurie's dedicated and enthusiastic approach to learning greatly impressed the judging panel and I wish them every success in their chosen careers.'