Marital bliss for Perth College student couple

Sep 30 2008 by Eddie Murphy, Perthshire Advertiser Tuesday

Marital bliss for student couple

FIONA Clements has been named ‘Perth College UHI Student of the Year’ after producing exceptional academic work and securing a funded place on a Masters course.

Fiona gained her BA Social Science (Hons) degree over four years of study at Perth College through UHI, the prospective University of the Highlands and Islands.

The standard of work that she produced was of such a high standard that The Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) who funds research and training in social and economic issues decided to fund her Masters course in Central and Eastern European Studies at Glasgow University.

The award honours students who are nominated for exceptional academic achievement, personal achievement or contribution to the student community.

Fiona, who lives in Dunning was also seen as an enthusiastic ambassador for UHI in her role as student representative for her class.

Fiona explained: “The most important thing for me about coming to Perth College was about how accessible it was. To be able to do an honours degree of this calibre without having to go to Edinburgh or Glasgow was crucial. Also, the staff were fantastic support in helping us all work towards our goals."

She added: "While I'm really pleased to receive this award, I feel it should go to my young daughters, Grace and Carla. I couldn't have done it without the patience, support and understanding of my two girls."

Fiona, who got married the day after the graduation, added: “I have more than the qualification and scholarship to show for my four years than. I also met my husband to be, Daniel Shenton at College. He was on same course and also got a first!”

Winner of £100, Fiona now goes through as a candidate for the overall UHI student of the year title, competing against local winners from all the partners in the network of colleges and research centres across the Highlands and Islands.