Left School

2017

Post school journey

In S4 I attained National 5's in Maths, English, Physics, Chemistry, Geography and Computer Science.  In S5 I attained Highers in Maths, English, Physics, Chemistry and Geography.  In S6 I attained a Higher in Computer Science and credits for Advanced Higher Maths and Advanced Higher Physics.  I left VOLA to study Computer Games Technology at Abertay University in Dundee, where I graduated with a First Class Honours degree. Following this I joined Sports Interactive where I have been a Software Engineer on the Football Manager series. 

My career path

I always had a passion for video games growing up, alongside an interest in Computing, Maths and Physics. When deciding on a university course I knew I wanted to do a Computer Science degree, I had looked online through the different universities in Scotland at what each one offered and came across Computer Games Technology at Abertay. 

I then had the option of picking a general Computer Science degree or choosing a course that had specialities, such as games development, alongside it. It wasn't until I had attended University Open Days and seen what all the courses had to offer before I submitted my UCAS application.

Extra curricular experiences

Throughout my time at VOLA I was involved in the Pupil Council,  earned the 100 hour Saltire award for volunteering, represented the school as a STEM Ambassador, represented the school in the West of Scotland Physics Education Group school Quiz and was Head Boy in my 6th year.

I was also fortunate enough to undertake a two-week work placement at a Software Development company in London between my 5th and 6th year. Through this experience, I shadowed developers allowing me to get an understanding of what the job of a Software Engineer would be like.

My skills

As key as the development of my technical skills (programming and maths) have been during my time in education and in my job, I would say the development of my transferable skills such as communication, teamwork and problem-solving have been just as beneficial. It is great being able to understand problems and work on them yourself, but it is equally as important to learn from others and having a solid foundation of these skills is a great way of starting that journey.

Advice for others

Explore subjects that genuinely interest and excite you! Don't be too focused on the specific job unless you are 100% certain about you're career path, find something you enjoy and see if you can find a career around that. And don't be scared to ask questions, it doesn't matter how many questions you ask it's just about you getting to a level of understanding where you can learn more yourself!