Student Spotlight - Dylan Halliday

“I have learnt many skills that I did not know I had.”

Did you know that you can study a range of courses via distance learning at UHI Perth? This alternative method of study allows for a flexible approach to fit around your current lifestyle. Having just finished the second year of an Admin and IT course, Dylan chatted to us about how the distance learning experience has been ⬇️

Can you introduce yourself?

My name is Dylan Halliday, and I am from Dumfries and Galloway.

You are currently studying HNC in Administration and Information Technology, via Distance Learning. Why did you decide to pick this course and how have you found the last two years?

I picked the HNC in Admin and IT as I really enjoyed the subject in school and having studied up to higher level, the Higher National Certificate (HNC) was the next perfect step. The past two years have been great and an amazing experience. I have enjoyed everything that I have studied as well.

Before coming to UHI Perth, you worked in retail. Why did you decide to leave this industry and return to education?

I felt it was time for a change and pursue a career that I would enjoy, so I applied to the course knowing I could do it from my home and here I am two years later, the course is now complete.

Did you find it a difficult adjustment returning to learning? How did you manage your new course workload and deadlines?

I did not find returning to learning too difficult and I settled in quite well. We had our induction through Microsoft Teams and yes, it took a bit of time to navigate my way around Brightspace (UHI’s VLE). I organised my work through a paper diary and read the material and that really helped with assessments.

Over the two years, what have been your favourite parts of the course?

There is so many, but I have really enjoyed getting involved with certain activities on campus where I can. UHI Perth is a great vibrant campus, and I have been grateful of all the opportunities that have come my way. I have also enjoyed any extra input that lecturers have put in as many of them go the extra mile for students.

How have you found learning via distance learning?

Distance learning is a big commitment, and you need to be motivated and take responsibility for your own learning. The huge benefit has been that you can learn and complete assessments at a time that suits you as long as you meet the deadlines. The whole course has been supported by many inspiring lecturers who go above and beyond to support their students.

I would like to say a huge thank you to them for all the support they have given me during my studies so far, especially to my PAT (Personal Academic Tutor) who is Alison Kirk who has been there from day one and always supports and encourages her students in so many ways.

As you aren’t on campus, are you still able to make connections and friends with your fellow classmates? Do you ever get an opportunity to see each other in person?

I actually haven’t met any of the distance learners in person. However, I set up a WhatsApp group when we started back in 2024 to help and support each other, and it has been great having everyone feel like they are part of a community.

What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you when you leave UHI Perth?

I have learnt many skills that I did not know I had. I feel all the different units I have studied have had their own little interesting part and I have gained a lot of confidence doing reports, learning new IT skills through completing databases, spreadsheets, word processing and PowerPoint presentations. All of these are related to business scenarios, preparing me for the real world.

Alongside your studies, you have been a student helper at the UHI Perth Open Days. How have you found this experience? If anyone is thinking about being a student volunteer, would you recommend it to them?

Volunteering at open days has really been great. I really enjoy getting involved and having done a few open days now. I would say to anyone, give something back and get involved.

At the recent OBI Awards, you won ‘Outstanding Student Voice Representative for Business, Science, Technology and Wellbeing’. How did it feel to be nominated for this award?

It felt really good winning the Outstanding Student Voice Rep at the annual OBI awards. I didn’t realise how much of an impact that I actually had on the UHI Perth community.

The Student Voice Rep role has been great, particularly as distance learner and to represent the fellow students was a great experience and the role itself is great for boosting your confidence and of course making a change and being good to put on your CV.

Have you enjoyed studying at UHI Perth?

I have enjoyed it a lot. The support on the course is brilliant, and my journey has been so successful.

As you are at the end of your course, what are you planning to do next?

I am planning to do the HND in Admin and IT.

And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying an Administration and IT course at UHI Perth?

Just go for it, you are in for a fantastic and great time. Whatever study mode you choose, you will be supported by the teaching team and at times maybe the non-teaching staff.

There’s still time to take the next step in 2026. Places are still available on the HNC Administration and Digital Business Technologies course. Apply now >>