School of Social & Environmental Sustainability

Eilidh's Story

When Eilidh was considering her options for university study, she wanted to move somewhere for a completely different experience. Growing up in Glasgow, Eilidh had experienced the city life and now wanted to live and study in a new location.

Having been interested in teaching since she was at school, Eilidh had completed an HNC in Childhood Studies before applying for degree programmes. With offers from multiple universities, Eilidh attended her interview and participated in the Offer Holder Day at Dumfries Campus, and ultimately chose to study here.

Throughout her studies, Eilidh engaged with extra-curricular activities to make the most of her time at university. From working as a Living Support Assistant in Halls of Residence, to joining the Student Ambassador team to help out with events on campus, Eilidh took every opportunity presented to her.

“If you don’t put your all in, you don’t get the benefits out. There are job opportunities and clubs in the community that you can seek out. Throw yourself into everything. It’s the best way to get a great experience.”

By the time Eilidh got to 4th year, she had built an excellent relationship with her classmates and her lecturers. In her final year, Eilidh opted for an international placement experience in Berlin, Germany.

“The opportunity came up, and it was organised through the uni, so I felt confident that it would be a good experience. I really liked the idea of living abroad for a month before I start my teaching job after the summer. I felt this added to my university experience, even though it was fully optional.”

Eilidh worked with Primary 1-aged children in a play-based teaching environment.

“It was great to compare the Scottish and German teaching system. I was observing and leading on activities – we made Loch Ness Monsters out of clay! I was so impressed with the children in the class who could already speak 3-4 different languages.”

Now that Eilidh has graduated, she has chosen to stay in Dumfries & Galloway for her first teaching job.

“I had such good experiences on placement here, that helped make my decision to stay for at least another year!”