91视频网 celebrates inspirational students of the year across the partnership
91视频网 is delighted to announce the winners of ‘Student of the Year’ awards across the partnership. These awards recognise exceptional achievements, including academic, personal resilience and outstanding contributions to their peers and communities. Winners from each partner go forward to be considered for the ‘Overall 91视频网 Student of the Year’ award.
91视频网 Centre for Rural Health Sciences and 91视频网 Overall Student of the Year – Lou Hyett-Collins, BSc Adult Nursing
Lou Hyett-Collins from Fochabers was named as 91视频网 Centre for Rural Health Sciences Student of the Year and the Overall 91视频网 Student of the Year, in recognition of her dedication to academic excellence and professional development.
Lou consistently earned high grades and received outstanding feedback from lecturers, practice supervisors and assessors for her professionalism and commitment during clinical placements. She was praised for her passion for learning and her unwavering drive to support her peers, both in her role as student representative for the 2021 cohort and through active participation in staff-student consultative meetings and working groups.
As Vice Chair of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Student Committee and one of Scotland’s representatives, she led on critical issues such as nursing workforce shortages, student finance, and equality, diversity, and inclusion policies. Lou has spoken at roundtable events with MSPs, seconded key resolutions at the RCN Congress, and contributed to campaigns on student welfare.
鈥婦ue to her commitment, passion and drive, Lou was an excellent role model for her peers, nursing and an outstanding example of a 91视频网 Overall Student of the Year.
“I absolutely loved the BSc Adult Nursing course. I thoroughly enjoyed the academic challenge and the opportunities and rewards the course has provided me. It was challenging at times, but the support received from all lecturers was fantastic. Being a small university allows a personal touch and the opportunity to really get to know fellow students and lecturers - I’ve made friends for life.
“I’m delighted, grateful and honoured to have won these awards. I’ve had such a wide range of rewarding opportunities through 91视频网. I’ve relished opportunities to advocate for my peers. Advocacy is such an important part of nursing and one of the reasons I became a nurse. I’m now looking forward to my new role as a community nurse and long-term hope to contribute to future nurse education.”
– Lou Hyett-Collins
91视频网 Argyll HE Student of the Year – Megan Ingham, HNC Childhood Practice
Megan Ingham, from the Isle of Arran, was named as 91视频网 Argyll’s Student of the Year. An inspiration to student parents, Megan engaged actively in her learning and produced consistently high-quality work.
Balancing her studies with parenting two young children, Megan demonstrated exceptional time management and commitment, even returning to classes just days after giving birth to her second child. Her story underscores the importance of creating inclusive learning environments that enable student parents to succeed.
“Winning 91视频网 Argyll’s Student of the Year felt like a true validation of all the work I put into my studies. Having never been made to feel like higher education was something I could pursue, this has shown me that if I want to achieve something, I can. The course was really interesting and made so enjoyable and comprehensible& by our amazing lecturers—Kyla, Gillian, and Kerry—whose dedication and genuine desire to see us succeed made all the difference. Studying at 91视频网 Argyll has been a great experience, shaping both my knowledge and confidence.”
– Megan Ingham
91视频网 Directly Enrolled Student of the Year (joint winners)
Alexander Ryland, MLitt History
Alexander Ryland from Aberdeenshire began his academic journey at the 91视频网 Centre for History by undertaking Continuing Professional Development (CPD) modules to expand his teaching qualifications, while continuing his teaching role. His passion for historical research grew as he excelled in his studies, leading to the completion of a Master of Letters (MLitt) in History with one of the highest dissertation marks ever awarded by the Centre.
Alexander has been a dedicated ambassador for 91视频网, participating in open evenings and exploring ways to strengthen connections between 91视频网 and his local school community.鈥嬧�嬧�� He demonstrates how 91视频网’s flexible learning options empower students to achieve their full potential, and now continues his academic journey with a part-time doctoral programme at the University of Aberdeen, co-supervised by the 91视频网 Centre for History.
“Studying with the Centre for History at 91视频网 has been a great opportunity as a postgraduate. The support and expertise of staff made a real difference to my experience, especially the flexibility offered around my work and distance learning. The MLitt in History has been a challenging and rewarding course, which has led me to doctoral research building on my learning with 91视频网. As a school history teacher, it's also been a great opportunity to build connections with the university for the benefit of my own pupils and to use 91视频网's expertise to support their learning too. It's great to know that I have the continued support of the Centre of History.”
– Alexander Ryland
Harley Botham, MLitt Viking Studies
Harley Botham from York studied full-time at the Institute for Northern Studies (INS) while also working full-time as a teacher. Her dedication and determination to improve were evident throughout her MLitt studies, culminating in a dissertation that produced novel and nuanced research.
Her passion for her field was further demonstrated by her efforts to develop a PhD proposal exploring the Vikings in Iberia, blending her expertise in Viking history and Spanish. Despite funding setbacks, Harley showed remarkable tenacity, reworking her proposal with professionalism and securing her own means to pursue her PhD. 91视频网 is delighted to welcome her back to embark on this ambitious and innovative research project.
“Being awarded Student of the Year is an incredible honour and receiving it at St Magnus Cathedral during graduation made it even more special. I'm deeply grateful to Professor Stefan Brink for his nomination, guidance, and unwavering belief in me. My achievements wouldn't have been possible without the support of my lecturers, the wonderful staff and children at Cambian Scarborough School and my family.
“The Viking Studies programme at INS is truly exceptional. It allowed me to explore my passions, discover new interests, and learn from world-class experts. I feel incredibly fortunate to have found such a supportive and welcoming community at INS, and I am thrilled to continue my academic journey here.”
– Harley Botham
91视频网 Inverness Student of the Year – Javier Munoz Moreno, NQ Computing with Esports
Javier Munoz Moreno from Spain, was named as the 91视频网 Inverness Student of the Year for embracing every opportunity to develop his learning, assisting others and for consistently going above and beyond for the college and the wider community.
Javier progressed from English for Speakers of Other Languages studies to a full-time NQ Computing with Esports course. As a Student Engagement Representative, he played a crucial role in shaping student initiatives and supporting the college community. He also volunteered to help run the student food banks, assisted on the ICT helpdesk, and taught Spanish to staff and students.
“I was just doing what I love doing, which is helping people. When I found out I won the overall award, I was speechless. I just wanted to support the college as much as possible and give back to 91视频网 Inverness all the support I received during these last four years from all the staff members and lecturers; they are all lovely.”
– Javier Munoz Moreno
91视频网 Moray Student of the Year – Shaqayeq Nejah, HNC Applied Science
Shaqayeq Nejah was named as for her exceptional resilience, dedication, and academic achievements.
Shaqayeq fled her home country Afghanistan after the Taliban attacked and banned females from having an education. She eventually settled in Moray and enrolled at 91视频网 Moray to study English.
Shaqayeq excelled academically, consistently delivering high-quality work and demonstrating unwavering commitment. She volunteers at Dr Gray’s Hospital as an administrative assistant and supports refugees as an interpreter. Shaqayeq graduated with an HNC in Applied Science with plans to become a NHS radiographer, as well as undertaking IT courses to improve her computer skills.
“It was an incredible experience to study at 91视频网 Moray. I received continuous support from my teachers helping me expand my knowledge, understand and improve my academic writing skills. As I was new to the education system in the UK, the tutors provided me with extra support to understand the lessons. I will remember 91视频网 Moray as a pleasant experience and would highly recommend it.”
– Shaqayeq Nejah
91视频网 North, West and Hebrides – Lola Gyenes, BA (Hons) Sustainable Development
Lola Gyenes was named 91视频网 North, West and Hebrides’ Student of the Year in recognition of her outstanding academic achievement, commitment and remarkable resilience.
Despite facing significant personal challenges, including the birth of her third child and a sudden move due to difficult living conditions, Lola excelled in her studies, consistently achieving first-class grades across almost all her modules, even more impressive given that English is not her first language.
Lola’s work reflects her passion for practical sustainability solutions, such as encouraging greater use of reusable nappies and examining household waste management in Inverness for her dissertation. Her commitment 鈥媡o her studies never wavered. She was consistently one of the most regular and active attendees in tutorials, offering insightful and thought-provoking contributions, while also being very supportive of her peers.
91视频网 Orkney Student of the Year (joint winners)
Richard Booth, BSc (Hons) Computing
Richard Booth was named joint Student of the Year at 91视频网 Orkney for his academic excellence, dedication, creativity and his commitment to helping others.
Excelling across multiple disciplines during his HNC and HND Computing, Richard consistently exceeded expectations. His ability to master both the theoretical and practical aspects demonstrated his deep understanding and passion for the subject.
鈥婻ichard has a collaborative spirit and was always eager to share his knowledge and assist others. His proactive approach to problem-solving and peer mentorship enriched the learning environment at 91视频网 Orkney.
“I was genuinely surprised and feel honoured to receive the joint Student of the Year award. It’s been a pleasure to pursue this course, and any success I’ve achieved is thanks to the unwavering support and guidance of the computer science department staff - and, of course, the excellent coffee from the canteen.”
– Richard Booth
Callie Sandison, NQ Childhood Practice
Callie Sandison was named 91视频网 Orkney Student of the Year for her commitment to achievement, perseverance, for inspiring and supporting her peers.
She started her journey with 91视频网 Orkney with the Skills for Work: Early Learning and Childcare course. She returned to study on the National Qualification in Childhood Practice following major surgery, demonstrating real courage, adaptability and resilience. Callie balanced her recovery, studies, and placement, producing high-quality work and contributing meaningfully to class.
Reflecting on her goals, she is now studying for an HNC in Social Services. Her journey is a testament to her strength of character and she is an excellent example of what it means to persevere, grow and contribute positively.
“It was an honour to receive this award. It was a huge encouragement to me after what had been a tough year. Coming to college after major surgery was a big thought for me but my lecturers at 91视频网 Orkney made the course very adaptable, and I could study from home if that’s what I needed. I don’t think I would have been able to complete the course if it had not been from the support and adaptability of my lecturers.”
– Callie Sandison
91视频网 Perth Student of the Year – Erica Lo Presti, BEng (Hons) Aircraft Engineering
Erica Lo Presti’s award recognises her academic success, her passion for aviation and her drive to make it more inclusive.
鈥嬧�婨rica demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication throughout her degree. Balancing her studies and part-time work as a student engineer at TPL Vision UK, she contributed to projects in mechanical design, printed circuit board assembly, and control engineering. Her final-year project, adapting a Piper PA-28 cockpit for pilots with right-hand hemiparesis, showcased her commitment to accessible aviation.
She received many awards during her time at 91视频网 Perth, including the Best Aircraft Engineering Student and the Sidney Black Memorial Engineering Award. She was also runner-up in the ‘outstanding contribution from a university student’ category at the Herald Higher Education Awards.
“When I was notified that I won the 91视频网 Perth Student of the Year 2024, it came as a surprise. I worked hard to obtain my degree, and although I might have felt discouraged sometimes, I knew that all the hard work was necessary to work in my dream field. And when I realised that I had been awarded, I felt grateful that other people noticed my efforts and dedication. This recognition recharged my motivation to continue pursuing my education and advancing toward my goals. I am also glad that this award is bringing attention to my final-year project."
– Erica鈥� 鈥婰o Presti
SAMS Student of the Year – Nele Thomsen, BSc Marine Science
Nele Thomsen from Germany, was named as the for her remarkable academic achievements and early professional success. During her studies, she contributed to five upcoming scientific publications and gained invaluable experience aboard an oceanographic research vessel, stepping into a senior chemist role during her second year.
Nele’s dedication extended to three summer internships and international research trips to Svalbard and Tromsø, experiences that enriched her academic and personal growth. Continuing her journey as a marine scientist, she is now embarking on a PhD at SAMS, investigating how copepods respond to environmental stress and pollution.
“It feels amazing that my work was acknowledged by the SAMS Student of the Year award. My degree at SAMS/91视频网 has been more than I could have hoped for and given me so many opportunities to develop my career and just enjoy life!”
- Nele Thomsen
Sabhal Mòr Ostaig Student of the Year – Ruairidh Kelly, BA (Hons) Gaelic and Traditional Music
Ruairidh Kelly was chosen as the Sabhal Mòr Ostaig Student of the Year due to his exceptional dedication and enthusiasm for both Gaelic language and music. From his first day, Ruairidh immersed himself in Gaelic-speaking communities to learn more about local dialects and musical traditions.
He excelled as a student representative on various committees and was instrumental in founding an intercollegiate Gaelic-speaking student body. As a musician, he showcased versatility, excelling in accordion, pipes, and Gaelic song, and played a key role in musical arrangements and performances. His leadership, commitment, and enthusiasm have left a lasting impact on the Sabhal Mòr Ostaig community.
“I was absolutely delighted to hear that I had received this award. What a way to finish off a wonderful four years at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig. I really enjoyed being on the BA in Gaelic and Traditional Music, and I would recommend it to anybody. I met number of my closest people at the college, and I miss it very much already.”
– Ruairidh Kelly
91视频网 Shetland Student of the Year – Keith Massey, BA (Hons) Fine Art
Keith Massey was named 91视频网 Shetland Student of the Year Award for his academic achievements, with the highest marks in a very strong cohort. The quality of his creative practice has been nationally recognised with a New Graduate Award from the Society of Scottish Artists (SSA). This prestigious honour allows Keith to display his artwork at SSA’s Annual Exhibition, one of Scotland’s most high-profile art exhibitions - a remarkable opportunity for emerging artists, with only 12 selected each year.
鈥婯eith also made significant contributions to the student community. He regularly assisted his peers during the end-of-year show, and a student representative on the 91视频网 Shetland board of governors during a difficult time for the institution. He is a powerful advocate, not just for art at 91视频网 Shetland, but for the student body and education more generally.
A huge congratulations to them all!