Alumni Spotlight - Calum Moffat
If you’re interested in a future in the sports industry, there’s no better place to learn than at UHI Perth. The Academy of Sport and Wellbeing (ASW) provides an outstanding learning environment on campus and is equipped with a multifunctional sports hall, gyms, strength and conditioning suite, fitness studio, and Climbing Centre.
In this week’s blog, we meet a former student who is successfully working as a personal trainer 👇
Can you introduce yourself?
Hello, my name is Calum Moffat and I live in Perth.
What course did you study at UHI Perth, and in what year did you complete your studies?
I studied Exercise and Fitness Leadership Level 6, then followed on to do HNC then HND Fitness, Health and Exercise.
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
I heard about UHI Perth when I was at school. I also heard many good things about ASW and the facilities!
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
I was a labourer on a construction site.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
Fitness has always been a big part of my life and I wanted to make the move from it being a hobby into a career. This course was perfect for allowing me to gain the qualifications needed to pursue my passion.
What was your favourite thing about the course?
Hands-on experience on the gym floor, then working with the public.
Were there any standout/memorable moments from your course?
The lecturers always went above and beyond and genuinely want you to achieve.
What knowledge, skills and experience did you gain from your course that have helped you since leaving UHI Perth?
Lots of gym knowledge, how to perform exercises correctly and good gym etiquette. As the course went on, we gained more knowledge that helped with our confidence - which led us to be better instructors.
Did you undertake a placement or work experience whilst at UHI Perth?
As part of the course, we had to do work placement. I did my work placement in the ASW and that eventually gave me enough confidence to apply for a job within the ASW. I know for a fact without the work placement, I wouldn’t have been able to get my foot in the door.
What did you think about the styles of teaching, and the support you received from staff?
Very good and varied. The support was incredible as the lecturers want to see you do well.
What did you like about the campus/facilities?
Really great. The facilities on the campus are state-of-the-art. One of the many reasons I chose to study at UHI Perth.
Were there any other achievements you gained, on your journey?
I gained a lot of self-confidence, which for me was always quite tricky. The lecturers did a great job in encouraging you to believe in yourself and your abilities.
What have you been up to since graduation? Are you currently employed?
I am currently employed at Club 300 in Perth as a personal trainer. I have been there since leaving college.
Do you feel your studies have helped you with your career?
100%! The biggest help was the lecturers and a combination of all their experience within the industry.
What are your future career plans?
Keep working at Club 300 and then potentially move online.
Did you enjoy studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
It was all great!
What advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
It’s a great course, the staff are great, and the facilities are amazing!
