Kilwinning Graduation 2019: Student of the Year - Outstanding Achievement
My whole experience at Ayrshire College has been such a memorable time in my life. It has been life changing in the sense it gave me the tools to follow my passion and change my life for the better.
Claire Preston, HND Applied Sport Science
Before I came to college I volunteered for the Children’s Panel, as well as doing fundraising and event organisation for charity. I am also a busy mum, but felt it was time to pursue my passion for a career in the health and fitness industry.
When I first started, my main concern was being a mature student and being significantly older than the other students in my class. I also had to try and get back into the swing of studying again after being out of education for so long. I needn’t have worried as all the staff that were involved in my learning journey have encouraged and supported me along the way.
The course involved: anatomy, physiology, nutrition, biomechanics, work experience, coaching techniques, psychology, becoming confident in a gym environment and working towards being a gym instructor.
The knowledge I have gained has equipped me with the key skills to be successful in the health and fitness industry. I have grown in confidence throughout my time at college and it has encouraged me to not doubt myself in my abilities.
The staff and students I have met in my time at college have been my highlight. My most memorable moment was doing a charity cycle. Not only did we raise a fantastic amount of money for the charity but we made amazing memories all together and it was an experience I won't forget.
I took on work experience with KA Leisure shadowing the role of a consultant within the active North Ayrshire team. I experienced many different aspects of this role that I never knew existed in the industry and it made me want to learn more. My work experience led to me being offered training with a project working with cancer. This experience was the most rewarding thing I have ever done since starting my college journey.
I was so surprised when I received notice of this award, I did not expect anything like this to happen. I am extremely humbled that I was chosen and I am overwhelmed to be recognised as an outstanding student. I am over the moon!
I am currently a Physical Activity Consultant at KA Leisure. I plan to equip myself with as much industry experience and knowledge as possible. University is definitely on the cards in the near future. I have a very open mind when it comes to learning and personal development and I think university will give me another push in the right direction.
My whole experience at Ayrshire College has been such a memorable time in my life. It has been life changing in the sense it gave me the tools to follow my passion and change my life for the better. I am so proud to say I was an Ayrshire College student!
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