Graduation 2024

Bryan has always had a passion for animal care, but living with mild cerebral palsy meant facing additional hurdles along his educational journey.

Determined not to let these challenges hold him back, Bryan decided to enrol at Dundee & Angus College to pursue his dream of becoming a Registered Veterinary Nurse.

Now as a proud graduate of Dundee & Angus College, Bryan reflects on how important the support from staff was in helping him to start a journey that has brought him closer to his goal.

“The willingness to help was something I will never forget. The staff really made me feel comfortable talking about the challenges I faced, and their openness and kindness helped me go from strength to strength.”

Bryan completed his HND in Animal Care this year before moving on to pursue a BSc Hons in Veterinary Nursing at university. His experience at D&A was the kick-start in giving him both the confidence and the skills he needed to follow a pathway to his dream job.

Bryan said, “Being at College has given me the courage to jump into something I was never brave enough for before. The skills I’ve learned, both practically and in theory, have set me up so well for my future career.

During his studies, he completed a four-week placement in a veterinary practice where he confirmed that working in animal care was exactly where he wanted to be. Bryan is now preparing to complete his educational journey at university before starting his first job as a Veterinary Nurse in the future.

Looking back, Bryan is thankful for the strong foundation he built at D&A.

“Without the support of the staff, I wouldn’t be where I am today. The College has given me the confidence to believe in myself and pursue my dream career.”

Bryan’s journey is a true reflection of the transformative power of education and his journey through D&A has set him up on a pathway to success.

Bryan said: “I would say 100% do it, come to College. Take that chance to change your life for the better and know that D&A College is a place where that can happen.”

Zoe always dreamed of pursuing a career in performing arts, and after working full time in another field, she took the brave step towards her dream by enrolling in a course at Dundee & Angus College.

Now, as a proud graduate with a BA (Hons) in Professional Theatre Practice, Zoe reflects on how the College has given her a newfound confidence that has helped pave the way for her dream career.

Throughout her studies, Zoe has had to overcome challenges due to ADHD and dyspraxia, conditions that have brought extra hurdles when it came to focusing and movement on stage. Yet, with open communication and support from staff and classmates, Zoe found ways to make it work.

“I coped by letting people know what I needed, asking for support and working closely with others. The staff’s understanding and willingness to help have truly made all the difference and helped me to go from strength to strength.”

A highlight of her time at D&A was working on a collaborative project with peers to raise awareness about ADHD. This inspiring project was a turning point for Zoe and solidified her passion for using her skills to reach others in a meaningful way.

“The feedback I got was that it helped others, which is exactly what I’d hoped for. That experience made me realise that I want to keep using theatre to make a positive impact on people’s lives.”

Zoe’s journey at College has also led her to opportunities outside of the classroom. Together with two classmates, she launched a performance company called ADH3 which led to them showcasing their performances at the Fringe. The College’s strong industry links have already led to acting roles and future projects that have and will continue to shape her career even further.

“My time at College has been incredible. It has shaped me personally through the friendships I’ve made and professionally through the connections and experiences I have gained in the industry. It doesn't matter how old you are; if you have a dream, you need to go for it with everything you've got.”

Her creative ambitions go even further. Zoe has also published her first children’s book, Cassie Cat Meets Wilma Witch, which has inspired her to develop drama workshops that encourage children to build confidence and follow their dreams. These are values that D&A helped to instil in her own journey.

Looking back, Zoe sees her time at D&A as life changing, equipping her with the skills, confidence and resilience to step into her new career. Her story celebrates how Dundee & Angus College empowers students to achieve their ambitions through guidance, support and encouragement to turn dreams into reality.

Zoe said: “Absolutely go for it. I had a great experience here, and I've been employed since leaving. I left a full time career to come and study here because it was my dream, and I don't have a single regret.”

After years away from education, Rosemary took the leap to return to College as a mature student to follow her passion for science while balancing the demands of raising young children.

As a proud Dundee & Angus College graduate with an HNC in Applied Sciences, she has already opened the door to a fulfilling career in the industry.

While returning to education came with challenges, including finding the time to study amongst family responsibilities and managing their mental and physical health, Rosemary says that the support she received at D&A made all the difference.

“Accessing support and counselling through the College helped a lot. I cannot speak highly enough of the science staff; they were incredible!”

Throughout her time at College, Rosemary gained practical lab experience and industry relevant skills that are crucial in her new role. She studied biology and chemistry, both essential subjects in her day-to-day work.

Rosemary also took advantage of practical learning outside of the classroom by participating in the STEM Club and volunteering in the regional LEGO League Challenge, an event hosted by the College, which gave her additional opportunities to build her confidence and engage with science in the community.

D&A College has proven to be the perfect springboard for Rosemary to launch her science career. She chose to enter the workforce straight after completing her studies instead of going straight into the degree programme, and she credits the College for guiding her in the right direction.

“College gave me the means to change direction and pursue a career in science. In fact, the job that I have now is one that I applied for after hearing about it through the College.”

Looking back, Rosemary is thankful for the encouragement, resources and dedicated staff that have helped her succeed.

Her journey highlights how Dundee & Angus College supports learners at every stage, offering flexible paths to meet individual goals and building the skills and confidence needed to turn aspirations into achievements.

Rosemary’s advice for anyone considering D&A College?

“Do it! And use the help available!”

Finlay’s journey at Dundee & Angus College has been life changing, helping him to overcome personal challenges, discover a career in personal training, and proudly graduate with an HND in Physical Activity and Health.

Finlay reflects on the moment that solidified his choice to become a personal trainer, coaching his first client. The experience of connecting with clients and learning about how the body works confirmed his passion and set him firmly on his path.

“Coaching my first client at College had the biggest impact on me, as it truly made me decide there and then that I wanted to become a personal trainer.”

Finlay recalls being unsure if he would make friends when he started at the College, but within days, the College’s welcoming atmosphere and supportive staff helped him to feel like a valued member of the close-knit community. Over time, Finlay built his confidence, going from speaking hesitantly in small groups to comfortably leading an entire class, a skill that will serve him well in his new career.

“When I first came to College, I had bad anxiety, and I wasn’t confident at all.  I wasn’t sure if I was going to make any friends, but after the first day, I knew that the staff were willing to help get everyone together and become a community.”

Alongside his studies, Finlay was involved with Active Schools as part of his work placement through the College. After completing the required hours as part of his course, he continued running circuit classes and gym sessions for younger students, strengthening his confidence and refining his coaching skills.

“Working with Active Schools was a fantastic part of my course, and I believe these experiences helped me on my journey as they improved my confidence in teaching younger people.”

Reflecting on his time at Dundee & Angus College, Finlay feels that his experience has shaped him professionally and personally. His journey has equipped him with industry knowledge and hands on experiences, preparing him to launch his personal training career with enthusiasm and expertise.

“I am now delivering classes at the Saltire Sports Centre and the College has given me the tools to feel confident in front of a group. One thing that I will always carry with me is when my lecturer told me to be my own coach; that will stick with me as it means that I can be myself when I am coaching clients.”

For those considering College, Finlay encourages taking the leap.

“Give it a shot. You never know if it will become something you enjoy, and it can help to make new friends, gain new experiences and gain valuable knowledge.”

Matheus has always been passionate about football, and he achieved his dream of becoming a professional player at a young age.

However, after years of playing with teams in Scotland and Portugal, he realised that football alone might not give him the long term stability he wanted. He decided it was time for a new path and is now a proud graduate of Dundee & Angus College with an HND in Business.

“I needed another route beyond football. I realised that education could open new doors, develop me personally, and push me out of my comfort zone. Since the first day I joined, I had a goal in my head: to do well and get accepted to a university, especially St Andrews University, which was my priority, and I made it!”

Starting the course later in the year while balancing two part-time jobs was challenging, but Matheus’ focus on his goals helped him to manage. Through his classes, Matheus discovered new interests in business and gained skills that have already helped him in his career, from time management to working under pressure.

“When things got tough and messy, I would always think about my end goal at that moment and tackle the problems by priority, little by little, so everything would fall back into place again.”

While work commitments kept him busy, Matheus’ studies opened new doors. He transitioned from working in a fast food chain to a role in finance as a Purchaser and Sales Ledger Assistant to gain hands on experience that matched his career goals.

Reflecting on his journey at College, Matheus feels proud of his journey and grateful for the friendships made and support received along the way.

“I feel like at the end of the day during my time at Dundee & Angus College, my teachers always made me strive to be the best version of myself and push myself to be better than the previous assessment and also developed a sense of belief within myself.”

With his HND complete and his goals set for the future as he embarks on a degree at St Andrews University, Matheus’ story is an inspiring example of embracing change and pursuing new possibilities. His advice for anyone thinking of coming to College to reach their goals?

“I would 100% recommend going to D&A; the staff are extra friendly and will make you feel like you belong. You will get the chance to meet some incredible people and become friends, and it is great to share knowledge and learn from each other as well; it is a super-inclusive organisation which makes sure everyone feels part of it.”