School of Social & Environmental Sustainability

Vivien's Story

Originally from the west coast of Scotland, Vivien grew up in a small seaside village before moving to Dumfries. While Dumfries shared some similarities with her hometown, adjusting to the busier environment of Dumfries was something she had to get used to. However, she appreciated the strong sense of community she found. 

“There are definitely a lot of similarities with home, and in particular the community aspect which I really appreciated. It’s been a brilliant place to make friends and get to know so many different people” 

Her desire to work with children had been clear from a young age, and as the oldest grandchild in part of her family, she grew up surrounded by younger children. Through school, she participated in many placements, including a week-long experience at her former primary school. 

“I tried to participate in as many placements and work experiences in schools as possible. It was so rewarding and different every day - I like to be kept on my toes!” 

When applying for university, Vivien initially completed a foundation apprenticeship in ‘Social Services, Children, and Young People’ through her high school. She decided she wanted to gain more life experience before moving away from home and went on to complete her HNC in Childhood Practice at college. She applied to a variety of universities throughout Scotland and ultimately accepted an unconditional offer after attending a campus tour in Dumfries with her dad. 

“I applied for the University of Glasgow’s Dumfries Campus and had it as my top choice on UCAS. I had a friend from college whose brother completed the MA Primary Education programme here, and he spoke so highly of the experience. After my interview and campus tour, I knew for certain that this was where I wanted to be.” 

Vivien has particularly enjoyed her studies in ‘Mathematics: Theory & Pedagogy’, as well as the ‘Enhanced Mathematics’ route she has chosen to pursue. 

“If I were to choose a favourite course so far, I would say I’ve loved my mathematics courses and the Enhanced Mathematics route that Dumfries Campus offers - I really recommend it. And of course, Professional Practice in Education course when we go out on school placements - which is why you study education in the first place! All of these courses offer real hands-on experiences, and I’ve learned the most from them.” 

Maths had not always been a strength for her in primary and high school, but overcoming those struggles helped her develop a passion for the subject. 

“Initially, I thought I’d hate teaching maths and that I’d be rubbish at it. But I think because I struggled and had to work hard at it, I fell in love with it. I decided to go for the enhanced maths route and have been so well supported by my lecturer - it gives me so many more employability options when leaving university as well.” 

The Enhanced Mathematics route has given Vivien greater confidence in teaching the subject, and she hopes her approach to teaching will help children gain the understanding she didn’t always have when she was younger. 

In addition to her studies, Vivien is a student ambassador, which has given her many opportunities to build her CV, develop teamwork and communication skills, and work with people outside of her usual circles. 

“Paid part-time work is a great opportunity when studying, and the experience of being an Ambassador is one I really value. I have learned so much in such a short space of time.” 

Eager to expand her horizons and take full advantage of the opportunities her programme offers, she has also applied for the university’s study abroad programme to teach in Germany. 

Throughout her time at university, Vivien has found the institution to be very supportive, especially in managing her disability with Student Disability Services. 

“The University offers a lot of services like these and it’s amazing to feel so supported. I have an ‘invisible’ disability, so the support services mean my lecturers are aware that I may be absent more or have doctor’s appointments, and I receive support in exams. It’s such a relief from the pressure.” 

During her first year Vivien had to undergo surgery, but the University’s support helped her navigate the experience with less stress. 

“My lecturers are so helpful and considerate, and I can get the help I need without disrupting the class. It’s a relief to not always have to explain myself and tell my story all the time - they understand me and provide the support I need.”