RGU alumna Oluwatosin Abikoye shares her learnings from her time at RGU and how the University helped her build a career as a Petroleum Engineer.
Pursuing a master’s degree in Petroleum Engineering from Robert Gordon University (RGU) was one of the best decisions I ever made. Known for its industry-focused curriculum and strong ties to the energy sector, RGU equipped me with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills that have been instrumental in shaping my career as a petroleum engineer. This blog takes you through my journey, from being a student at RGU to navigating the complex and dynamic world of petroleum engineering.
Life as a Petroleum Engineering Student at RGU
My journey at RGU was a blend of rigorous academic learning and engaging extracurricular activities:
Coursework: From production operations to well completions, the course covered all essential aspects of petroleum engineering.
Practical Labs: Working on drilling simulators and performing fluid property analysis in labs gave me hands-on experience.
Industrial Visits and Guest Lectures: Regular interactions with industry professionals kept me updated on the latest industry trends. I had the chance to attend the SPE iCota conference.
Networking: Being in Aberdeen allowed me to attend industry events and connect with professionals from leading energy companies.
Starting My Career in Petroleum Engineering
After graduating, I began my career with a strong foundation. My first job was with an oil and gas company, where I worked as a Field Operations Engineer. This role exposed me to the operational side of the industry, including:
Problem-Solving: Quickly adapting to challenges such as unexpected formation behaviour or equipment malfunctions.
Team Collaboration: Working with multidisciplinary teams, from geologists to mechanical.
My practical knowledge from RGU helped me quickly adapt to the fast-paced environment of the oilfield.
Growing in the Industry
As I gained experience, I transitioned to more specialized roles and got to share my knowledge and experience with others in the industry. Some of these specialised roles include policy and decision making, but also:
Production Optimization: Working on techniques like gravel packing to enhance well productivity.
Project Management: Leading cross-functional teams to deliver complex well projects.
I was invited to speak at the technical conference at Egypes 2025 where I also got to meet with other industry experts and network with top oil and gas executives.
My education at RGU not only gave me technical skills but also developed my problem-solving and leadership abilities, which have been crucial in my career growth.
How RGU Continues to Benefit Me
Even years after graduation, the connections and knowledge I gained at RGU continue to benefit me.
Alumni Network: Staying in touch with fellow graduates who are now in various roles across the industry.
Continuous Learning: Access to RGU’s online resources and webinars helps me stay updated with the latest industry developments.
Credibility: Having an RGU degree on my resume is recognized and respected in the energy sector worldwide.
Advice for Aspiring Petroleum Engineers
If you are considering a career in petroleum engineering, here are a few tips:
1. Choose Your University Wisely: Look for a course with strong industry connections and hands-on learning opportunities, like RGU.
2. Gain Practical Experience: Internships and field training are invaluable for building confidence and competence.
3. Network Actively: Build connections with industry professionals during your studies and early career.
4. Stay Adaptable: The energy industry is constantly evolving; keep learning and be open to new challenges.
Conclusion
My journey as a Petroleum Engineer began at Robert Gordon University, and the skills, knowledge, and connections I gained there continue to support me every step of the way. From field operations to advanced production optimization, my RGU education has been the foundation of my success in this dynamic industry.
If you are passionate about energy, problem-solving, and making an impact on a global scale, a career in petroleum engineering might be the perfect path for you.
Communication Design student Jake Irvine won both the Imajica Brand Evolution Emerging Talent Award and the FortyTwo Studio Emerging Talent award at the 2025 Gray’s Degree Show opening night last Friday. He answers our questions about his last four years at RGU and the work he is exhibiting in this blog.
What project are you presenting at the Degree Show?
For my Degree Show project, I wanted to show a variety of my video work from my Honours year. However, my spotlight project is an experimental short film exploring a small part of the Aberdeenshire coastline from Portsoy to Pennan. I chose to display this film as it represents a direction for my personal filmmaking style and journey, capturing the way I see a place, the details I noticed, and transports the viewers there with me through the lens of the camera.
How did the creation process go?
I enjoy every step of creating a film, researching and developing the first ideas I have into a plan and beginning to narrow down visuals and narrative elements as I go. For a film focusing on a space, I like to explore the area through photography, using this to capture quick moments or compositions I can refer to later, and possibly refine for the final product. I will eventually narrow down the shots I want, and over a few days start to record everything.
Finally, the place where the magic happens – editing. I love to use Davinci Resolve for the incredible scope the colour grading offers, in this case creating a vintage inspired film look based on Local Hero, adding grain, colour shifting, and warmth to the final image. This is the part I enjoy most.
What excites you the most about the Degree Show?
It’s incredible to finally see everything come together after four years of studying at RGU, not only for my own work, but being able to see everyone else’s, and share this with them across an amazing week to celebrate all the hard work and creativity we have built together. It’s an amazing feeling to have come this far, and see everyone else being there with you. We all create totally different work, but together it becomes the possibility of what we as a group can do.
How was your experience at Gray’s in the last four years?
I have experienced so much over the past four years at Gray’s that has shaped me as a creative but also provided a direction and purpose for my work. The later years really helped to build the independent feeling for my work, where it has become just what I do rather than feeling like studying for exams or coursework.
Having so many opportunities available to work with others inside and out of my course and develop skills and a portfolio different to any of my course mates is something I think is unique to Communication Design at Gray’s, and something that has helped me to become the creative I am and strive to become in the future beyond RGU.
The 2025 Gray’s Degree Show is opening its doors on Friday 6 June to staff, students, and members of the public. Ahead of the opening, some of our students from across a range of disciplines tell us more about their artistic projects, their time at RGU, and their career aspirations beyond graduation.
Julie – Communication Design
Throughout my studies, I have been exploring the concept of national identity and how a nation presents itself visually to both its own citizens and globally. I have created a new fictitious nation called the Sona Isles, and have been investigating how visual and national elements including colour and symbolism can reflect and shape a collective sense of belonging and national pride.
During my time at Gray’s and RGU, I have really enjoyed learning and developing new skills. As a mature student, I have really appreciated the opportunity to challenge myself and grow creatively.
I’ve also had the chance to get involved in a variety of interesting projects including ‘Beyond the Grey’ which is a project that celebrates the creative and cultural scene within Aberdeen. I’m interested in pursuing a career within the creative industries; perhaps the world of graphic design and creating graphic props for film and television production.
Aberdeen is a great place to live and study and I particularly like having the seaside and the countryside all on my doorstep. It’s a time of renewal in Aberdeen as we transition into a bright new future of renewables and I believe that the local, creative scene will play a valuable part in this and provide lots of opportunities for creatives.
Sophie – Fine Art (Painting)
During my time at Gray’s, I have been exploring symbolism and slight motifs, re-imagining Victorian portraiture paired with the exploration of feminine layers through delicate handmade materials.
I have really enjoyed the conversations and support from staff and other students, and I have been encouraged to try new things and make the most of the workshops and unique equipment. I’ve had the chance to get involved in some fun and interesting projects including the mid-year Interim Show with the Look Again team.
After graduation, I will be travelling to Florence with the RSA John Kinross Scholarship; I am so excited and grateful to receive this award!
I have had a great experience in Aberdeen overall, with lots of laughter and support of friends within Gray’s and across RGU.
Hannah – Fashion and Textiles
During my Honours year, I explored how modular fashion can support sustainability—extending a garment’s life and using materials that are easier to recycle. I’ve been weaving in elements of my Celtic heritage, giving traditional patterns and silhouettes a bold, modern twist, and bringing them to life with creative mixed media touches.
My time at Gray’s has been great for exploring and figuring out my design style. I made the most of the open workshops, and the laser-cutter this year and trying out cyanotype. There’s a really nice sense of community too, a cool collaborative atmosphere!
I’ve also had the chance to be part of some really exciting projects, but a standout was my study abroad semester in Hannover, Germany. It was such an eye-opening experience and definitely a highlight of my time at university, I’m really grateful I got the opportunity to do it.
I’m interested in pursuing a career in modular fashion design, where I can keep exploring innovative ways to create with purpose. I’d love to continue blending heritage-inspired concepts with modern techniques, while focusing on responsible material choices and thoughtful design that encourages longer-lasting, more meaningful connections with clothing, while still keeping it fun!
Aberdeen has been a great place to live and study over the past four years. Meeting so many interesting people both inside and outside the art school has also given me fresh perspectives on so many new things. As a student in the city, there’s always something happening, and the crazy nights out are full of memories that I’ll cherish and laugh about for years to come!
Maryanne – Photography
During my studies, I have been exploring both fashion and portrait photography as I enjoy working with and learning about people the most! I have really enjoyed the fast pace of the creative environment. I have pushed and tested my abilities as a photographer both physically and intellectually and I have had the freedom to explore and produce work based on my own ideas and ambitions.
I’ve also had the chance to get involved in some fun and interesting projects including a collaboration on a magazine with the Fashion Management students and I received a ‘Highly Commended’ award after entering the new Charles Skene Photography competition which really boosted my confidence.
I have enjoyed meeting a variety of people from different backgrounds within the Gray’s community. In fact, that’s what I focussed my Charles Skene project on. Aberdeen is full of sparkling granite and people.
Dawn – Product, Ceramics & Jewellery
During the last four years, I have been exploring how design can help us find value in the undervalued, both in terms of materials and in ourselves. As a neurodivergent designer, I’ve found deep meaning in the process. My final project transforms wastepaper into mindful, functional objects that promote calm, presence, and self-worth.
Throughout my time at RGU, I have really enjoyed discovering my voice as a designer. The variety of skills, materials, and perspectives available here at Gray’s combined with the freedom to experiment and trust my intuition, has allowed me to grow personally, creatively, and professionally.
I’ve had the chance to get involved in a variety of interesting projects and activities, including live client briefs, exhibiting at Aberdeen Art Gallery, and developing a range of hands-on processes including my own plant-based glue and paper lamination techniques.
Each experience has helped me to build confidence and expand my creative thinking. I’m interested in pursuing a career in mindful craft and sustainable design by continuing to grow my creative business which is called Deefyne Design. My aim is to make work that connects people through materiality, storytelling, and care.
I enjoy living in Aberdeen and I particularly like the closeness to the sea; the long walks along the beaches are relaxing and calming. I have also benefited from the support and connections that I’ve made within the creative community at Gray’s.
Read more student stories on the Gray’s School of Art Instagram. Find out more about the Degree Show including dates and opening times on our website.
Physiotherapy student Lorynne shares her experience living in Aberdeen and discovering the region and gives advice to other international students to step out of their comfort zone while studying in Scotland.
You’ve made your decision, now what?
Making the decision to study internationally does not come lightly. There are several factors to consider, sacrifices you may have to make, and the process itself can seem daunting. Personally, choosing to pack my suitcases (those zippers were tested!) and move across the Atlantic Ocean was the best decision I have ever made.
The process to getting here however may pose its challenges (I’m looking at you, student visa), but bear with it, it will all be worth it when you get off that plane and are greeted with your first friendly Scot. My first day, I landed in Glasgow and on zero sleep had to make the journey up to Aberdeen with my 3 over-packed suitcases, all while trying to figure out a new transit system. I was honestly so relieved to find that any person I asked for help along the way was more than willing to take time out of their day to help a lost Canadian.
Scottish people are incredibly friendly, and although they may have their own vocabulary that you have to try to decipher (see: wee, daft, crack on), I have yet to come across someone here that wasn’t happy to help.
What should I pack?
The number one thing I can suggest is to leave your umbrella at home. I know that seems counter-intuitive with all the rain that Scotland gets, but the wind is too strong on the east coast that your umbrella won’t stand a chance. On that note, bring a good quality raincoat. You’ll need it.
Other things you might want to consider bringing are objects or pictures that remind you of home. It is inevitable that as an international student you might feel homesick at one point or another so it is helpful to have your favourite sweater or a picture of your family to turn to. Also don’t be afraid to turn to other people in your course because chances are, they are feeling the same way, or have at one point. Most of the people in my class are international students, many being Canadian, so home really doesn’t feel so far away.
Living in Aberdeen
If you’ve done your research into Aberdeen you may have come across the term ‘Granite City’ or have heard of how grey Aberdeen can be. While this is true, don’t let this stereotype deter you from experiencing all that Aberdeen has to offer. With two universities in Aberdeen, the city runs many events throughout the year to bring vibrancy to its streets. The first event that I attended was the Spectra Light Festival which is held in February. Pictured below are some of the bright structures that were placed in Union Terrace Gardens for the festival.
If you’re on the hunt for stunning views, head down to Dunnottar Castle in Stonehaven, just a 15 minute train ride from Aberdeen. Scotland has a rich history, so take this time to explore as much as you can. I never saw myself as a castle person, but I have been amazed at the castles I have come across and the stories that they hold. Dunnottar Castle can be viewed for free (as pictured below) or you can purchase tickets to enter the castle and explore. While you’re there, make sure to check out the small town of Stonehaven and grab a bite to eat at one of the local cafes.
Exploring the rest of Scotland
As a physio student at RGU, your placements can be anywhere across Scotland. For my second placement, I was at the National Treatment Centre in Inverness. Inverness is located in the north of Scotland with easy access to the beautiful Scottish Highlands. There wasn’t a weekend where my friends and I weren’t out exploring the picturesque landscapes that Scotland is known for. My favourite adventure was to the Isle of Skye. In a short two days, we were able to see the Old Man of Storr, meet some furry friends, and Kilt Rock, among many other sights that the Isle of Skye has to offer.
The great thing about Aberdeen is that it has many connections to the rest of the country. It’s not difficult to get a bus or train to Glasgow or Edinburgh, meaning that as an international student without a car, you are not limited to exploring only Aberdeen.
My piece of advice
Take advantage of every opportunity that is presented to you. Think of these two years as your “yes” years. It can seem intimidating at first to go out with your class when you hardly know anyone, but one karaoke night at Triple Kirks and you’ll walk home with friendships that will last you beyond the course (that, and we should all stick to Physiotherapy, leave the singing to Kelly Clarkson).
During my first Connect and Reflect Week I was approached by a couple people in the course to take a trip to Edinburgh for a few days. I did not know them well, but these are my “yes” years. So to Edinburgh I went, and it was honestly so much fun. I got to know the other people in my course better and got to see the historical city of Edinburgh.
In addition to the advice I just gave, push yourself to do solo adventures as well! On Valentine’s Day of last year, while couples were out on dates and my partner was back home in Canada, I took myself out on a date to Cove Bay. This was such a cool experience, right on the coast of Aberdeen! The walk along the coastal path is a must-do while in Aberdeen.
As cliché as it sounds, use this opportunity to explore out of your comfort zone. In one year of studying here I can honestly say that I have accomplished many feats (big and small) that I never imagined I would be capable of. As I enter my final year in the course, I can honestly say that time flies, so stay in the present and enjoy this amazing opportunity that you have. I will never forget my experiences here at RGU for the rest of my life.
Darren Cadger’s story is proof that career paths aren’t always linear—and that sometimes, figuring out what isn’t the right fit is just as important as discovering what is. We sat down with Darren, RGU alumnus and founder of Arch 35 Marketing, to talk about his unconventional route from trades to entrepreneurship, his time abroad, and why he’s passionate about supporting the next generation of talent.
Let’s start at the beginning: what was life like after school for you?
I was born in Limerick, Ireland and grew up in Peterhead, and when I left school, I didn’t get the standard grades I was hoping for. So, like a lot of people in the area, I started an apprenticeship—first as a machinist. But it didn’t click for me. Then I tried a second apprenticeship as an electrician, and I quickly realised I wasn’t great with my hands either!
What made you consider college?
After trying both apprenticeships, I knew I needed to look at other options. I made some enquiries about college and ended up starting an NC in Business. I liked that the course gave me flexibility and opened doors I hadn’t considered before. That led me to an HND in Business and a 2+2 programme with RGU studying International Business Management.
You had the option to go straight into third year – why didn’t you?
The second year of the course included an opportunity to study abroad for six months and do a one-year work placement. That experience was way too valuable to pass up.
Where did you go for your study abroad and placement?
I went to Hannover in Germany for six months, which was a fantastic experience. After that, I returned to do a placement at Aker Solutions. Unfortunately, it was cut short due to the pandemic. My final year of study—my fourth year—was fully online because of COVID.
You graduated in 2021 with a degree in International Business Management. What came next?
After graduating, I decided to stay on and complete a master’s in International Marketing, which I finished in 2022. During the master’s programme, I did a four-week placement at Escone Solutions. They ended up hiring me as a Business Analyst, and I stayed there for three and a half years.
How did Arch 35 Marketing come to be?
While I was at Escone, I pitched an idea for a marketing company to the founders. They were really supportive—and with their backing, I launched Arch 35 Marketing in February this year.
What’s the vision behind Arch 35?
I’m really passionate about giving students real-world experience, just like I had. I’ve already taken on a placement student from RGU, and I hope to continue building those connections. This year, my focus is to take my entrepreneurship adventure further and to firmly establish the business in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
You’re currently on the Help to Grow: Management course – what’s that been like?
It’s been a great resource for developing my leadership and business strategy skills. The course through RGU has really helped me think bigger and more sustainably about Arch 35.
Looking back, how do you feel about your journey so far?
It’s been a bit of a rollercoaster, but I truly believe everything happens for a reason. I could be an unhappy engineer right now—but every twist and turn has brought me to where I’m meant to be: running my own company and doing something I genuinely care about.
Darren’s journey is a reminder that success isn’t always about getting it right the first time—it’s about staying open to new paths and believing in where they might lead.
International Jyothi, from India, shares her experience studying our master’s in Healthcare Leadership, getting support at the University, and living in Aberdeen.
A bit about me
My name is Jyothi, but most people call me Jyo. I come from Tirupati, a city in southern India known for its rich cultural heritage. I’ve always had a special fondness for elephants, their strength and wisdom have always inspired me. Apart from my love for these majestic creatures, I am passionate about content creation and living in the moment, cherishing every experience life offers. My professional journey began with completing a master’s in Pharmacy, specializing in pharmacology. I then went on to work as a Drug Safety Associate at Novonordisk in Bangalore, India.
During my time at Novonordisk, I witnessed first-hand how leadership in healthcare plays a crucial role, not only in driving the operational success of the company but also in shaping the well-being of employees. While my focus was on pharmacovigilance and ensuring patient safety, I noticed the profound impact leadership strategies had on employee engagement and motivation. It became clear to me that effective leadership could significantly influence not just the work environment but the mental and emotional health of healthcare professionals.
This realization led me to exploring leadership from a deeper perspective, particularly in the context of healthcare. It was this drive to understand leadership more profoundly that eventually inspired me to pursue the master’s in Healthcare Leadership at Robert Gordon University (RGU).
The course immediately stood out to me for its emphasis on both practical and strategic aspects of leadership. I was drawn to its holistic approach, which promised to provide the skills needed to lead with empathy and compassion. I knew it would give me the tools to improve patient care and enhance the work-life balance of healthcare workers, an area I was passionate about.
My Experience at RGU: A Path to Growth and Learning
My experience at RGU has been nothing short of transformative. The most striking feature of my time here has been the diverse and multicultural environment. I have had the privilege of engaging with students from various backgrounds, each offering unique perspectives and insights into healthcare challenges. This diversity has expanded my understanding of global healthcare practices and enriched my learning experience beyond the classroom.
One of the things I most appreciate about RGU’s master’s in Healthcare Leadership is its practical learning approach. The course doesn’t just focus on theory, it encourages us to apply what we learn to real-world situations. Through group activities, case studies, and collaborative projects, I have had the opportunity to sharpen my leadership skills in a dynamic and hands-on way. The tutors foster an environment of open communication, encouraging students to voice their opinions and contribute to discussions. This inclusive atmosphere has been immensely helpful in building my confidence, especially as someone who tends to be more reserved.
The personalized support provided by the tutors has been another highlight of my experience. Beyond just delivering lectures, they genuinely care about our success. They take the time to understand individual student needs and provide guidance, both academically and personally. It’s not uncommon for tutors to surprise us with small, thoughtful gestures like chocolates or strawberries—simple acts that create a warm, supportive environment and make the learning experience even more enjoyable.
What I hope to achieve
As I move forward in the course, my primary goal is to develop the leadership skills needed to manage healthcare organizations with both empathy and efficiency. I am particularly focused on understanding how leadership can create a positive and supportive environment for healthcare professionals, leading to improved employee well-being. I hope to be the kind of leader who not only excels at managing operations but who also fosters a culture of support, trust, and compassion.
Having personally faced mental health challenges, I understand the importance of supportive leadership in maintaining a healthy, motivated workforce. One of my core objectives is to use the skills I gain in this course to improve the mental and emotional health of healthcare employees. By empowering healthcare workers with the resources and support they need, I believe we can enhance the quality of care provided to patients and ensure that the healthcare professionals who deliver that care remain motivated and resilient.
The master’s in Healthcare Leadership at RGU has been incredibly valuable in shaping my understanding of leadership. The modules on digital literacy, emotional intelligence, ethics in healthcare, managing change, and financial management will provide a strong foundation. These modules have not only broadened my knowledge of leadership but also deepened my appreciation for the complexities of managing healthcare systems.
Support at RGU
One of the standout features of RGU is the incredible support system it offers. From academic resources to career counselling and mental health services, the University ensures that students have access to everything they need to succeed. The range of services available has been a huge help, keeping me focused and resilient, both academically and personally. Knowing that there is a strong network of support has made my time at RGU even more fulfilling.
Aberdeen: A beautiful place to study
Aberdeen has been the perfect backdrop for my studies. Often called the “Granite City” because of its iconic grey stone buildings, it blends rich history with modern living. The coastal location of the city adds a peaceful vibe, with stunning beaches and calm streets that encourage reflection. Whether I’m taking a walk along the beach or exploring the historic streets of the city, there’s always a sense of serenity and inspiration.
The RGU campus is ideally located by the river, offering a beautiful view that makes it even easier to focus on my studies. The riverside setting provides a perfect blend of nature and urban life, creating a peaceful environment that is ideal for learning and relaxation.
Why is this course worth it?
The master’s in Healthcare Leadership at RGU has been one of the best decisions I’ve made in my career. It has provided me with a deep understanding of the key principles of healthcare leadership, from strategic management and ethical decision-making to emotional intelligence and financial planning. What stands out most, however, is the course’s emphasis on the well-being of healthcare workers and the holistic approach to leadership.
For anyone considering a career in healthcare leadership, I wholeheartedly recommend this course. The practical, hands-on approach to learning, the diverse and caring academic community, and the wealth of support available have been key to shaping my future. I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and the chance to make a meaningful impact on the healthcare sector. This course has inspired me to pursue excellence in leadership, and I am confident that the skills I am gaining will help me create a positive change in the lives of healthcare workers and the patients they care for.
Have you heard of RGU Peer Support Group? They are RGU students here to support you and your wellbeing during your time at university. Find out more about them in this blog.
What is Peer Support?
We are a student-led signposting group that promotes mental wellbeing for students and fights the stigma around mental health by holding events such as University Mental Health Day, Time to Talk, and many more. Our services provide an opportunity for you to come to chat with one of our volunteers during our bi-weekly drop-in sessions, or events, about any concerns or dilemmas you may be facing whether that be regarding your personal life or your studies. We can either advise you of internal or external services that are more qualified to help or simply just be there to listen. Let me tell you a little bit more about how we do this…
We, for example, hold an annual event on University Mental Health Day (UMHD), where we invite external speakers from mental health organisations like SAMH, charities like Mamacita and all the clubs and societies at our university. Our UMHD takes place on one of the days during the national university-wide mental health week. This week is dedicated to breaking the stigma around student mental health by acknowledging the problems that students experience and by bringing awareness to the help available.
What are the bi-weekly drop-in sessions?
These are opportunities for you to come along if you would like some company. Our volunteers are there to flow with your needs. If you want, we can just play some games together. If you need more, then we are happy to be there and listen non-judgementally. We can also offer you our best advice or signpost you to the right place if we are unable to help.
These chats can be about anything that concerns you in or outside of the University. We believe that sometimes it is just easier to talk to another student about anything because we have similar experiences in general. So, if there is a time when you feel a bit down, why not come and see what we can do for you to help?
Can you tell us more about some of the events you organise?
Well, there is our ‘Time to Talk Day’ which is an annual awareness day that also aims to reduce the stigma around mental health and encourage open conversations. It’s for people to share their experiences and offer support and learn more about resources that can help. This year, we decided to organise a fun quiz night with self-care topics. We aim to connect students, bring some fun and provide some extra self-care routines/tips on these nights.
Then, there is the ‘Pizza and Paint’ event, too. As the name suggests, this is a night for painting and enjoying some free pizza! This is a great mood booster, and it is super helpful when you just need to relax. All the painting materials are on us; you just book your free ticket on the Union website. I still remember how much this helped me in my first year when I was still settling into uni life! The pizza was really good, we laughed a lot with my friends and talked to a few guys from other courses.
We also organise events together with other societies. Our ‘Plant and Paint’ events are run together with the Go Green Society. These events are great for getting to know all the societies involved, relaxing, and creating something memorable! Working with plants is indeed therapeutic and does feel amazing! You can find the dates for our upcoming events on the RGU:Union website or on our social media sites (Facebook/Instagram).
How does Peer Support work?
We are all student volunteers here, and our committee works closely with the RGU:Union. We have a President who does all the main organisations of our events, the recruitment of volunteers and attending meetings with the union. The Co-president has similar responsibilities and steps in if the President is missing.
Then, we have a Communication Officer managing our social media sites, and most of the posts. This is the volunteer who will reply to you if you contact Peer Support.
Finally, we have a Treasurer, managing all the finances of Peer Support and keeping our budget happy…
Plus, we have volunteers without a specific role who help run the events, provide support with ideas and provide listening ears to students during the bi-weekly sessions/events. We always look for more volunteers since the more we are, the more we can help!
How do you think Peer Support benefits others?
We strongly believe that reducing the stigma around mental health has a great and positive outcome on our student’s lives and experiences. By providing a space where anybody can turn to, we have an opportunity to help with anything that otherwise would be brushed under the rug. We also believe that we bring some fun and meaningful events while bringing some possibly underestimated self-help tools and tips. In addition, we give students the chance to talk to other students first in case they feel that asking for professional help would be scary or uncomfortable.
Lastly, we also provide volunteering opportunities, and a variety of skills related to mental health that everybody can benefit from in their life and careers in the future.
To volunteer with Peer Support, contact the team via email: peersupport@rguunion.co.uk
We recently launched our UnDiscovered Aberdeen campaign to showcase the city in a new light and appreciate all the things it has to offer. Communication Design student Jake Irvine worked part-time with our Marketing team to create our hero YouTube video. He shares his experience with us and what he’s learned, along with his own perception of Aberdeen in this blog.
How did you start your journey on the UnDiscovered Aberdeen campaign?
I did have some previous experience with the marketing team before the UnDiscovered campaign, initially helping out with grip work, setting up lighting and being the extra pair of hands on set for the videographer. This allowed me to learn his ways through a highly professional but intensely enjoyable method of working. I was then asked if I might be interested in taking a role to fill in for him when he left RGU, which I was happy to do.
After this, we created the promotional films for the Gray’s Master’s Degree Show before beginning to look at the existing plans for UnDiscovered Aberdeen, and what a brief might look like in terms of requirements for coverage and deliverables. I was then given the brief from the team, which was to create a hero film to promote Aberdeen and the shire as a destination for all, and connect everything back to RGU.
This was the first time working on a project this large by a long shot. I had only started learning and creating video less than two years before I started working with the marketing team, so going from personal projects or small film commissions to a massive campaign was incredible, a challenge for sure, but getting thrown in the deep end always means you learn to swim faster.
I was inspired immediately by my own experience over the past few years being at university, despite being from the shire and living here most of my life, I was still finding things that I loved, and small places that were absolute gems to me. This was something I wanted to try to share with others through the film – the vast amount of small things you can enjoy. It was a chance to not only sell Aberdeen and the shire, but to sell a bit of my Aberdeen and the things I like.
How did you come up with the idea behind the hero video?
The film for UnDiscovered Aberdeen came around as a combination of ideas taken from the team, but also drawing from the best place for inspiration – the creative community. There are so many incredible creatives out there who make the most amazing work, so I have always been inspired by their ideas. I consumed as many advertisement campaigns as I could find that had different tones, different styles, and started to take the best bits from each of them and thought about how they might come together.
The first real idea was simply starting to write a script from scrappy thoughts in my head of all the little things there are, from cafes, landscapes, food, bars, and events. I wanted to find a way to connect them all, and together we all drafted ideas for the first script, and the film was basically born from there.
How was your experience working with the marketing team?
Working with the marketing team was just the best experience I could have been given. It was my first real experience with a full corporate environment, and one which has introduced me perfectly into that world. Everyone I worked with truly loves what they do, every interaction and meeting was just filled with people enjoying their work and sharing that experience.
There was a culture of always trying to help others with anything, no question was off the table or silly. I never once felt like I was alone in my work, and being part of a team that was so encouraging of someone who wasn’t even finished university, and to trust me with such a large project was amazing.
I think it has set me up for a career post-university perfectly, knowing the function of a corporate environment and just how willing everyone is to get things done gave me confidence that no matter where I land, I will be able to contribute and enjoy my work as much as I did over the time at RGU.
What were the highlights of the production process and your proudest accomplishments?
The highlights of the production for me had to be meeting so many different people all across the city. We worked with different businesses and organisations, students and staff, and being able to meet new people every day and work with them to create something fun was incredible.
Sugarbird and Second Home come to mind first as they were so accommodating for us coming in to shoot in their space, having lights set up and a camera waved around, and played the part all the way through. But truly everyone I had the chance to work with outside of RGU but also within the University and the Marketing team were great.
My proudest accomplishment with the campaign has to be just getting it all made. It certainly took a lot longer than was originally intended, mostly due to myself, but being my first ever large project and campaign of any sort, everyone in our team was so understanding and knew we would get there.
When I pulled everything together for my final year folio, I really saw just how immense this project was. Days of shooting at more than twenty locations with new people at each one, even though they would be a small part in the large puzzle, it was a lot to pull together for my first experience on a large project. I have no doubt this will make the next ones easier, but looking at this one, I am so happy with the work we all made happen across the city.
What challenges did you face and what did you learn from them?
There were definitely a few challenges along the way, time was the biggest one as I am sure it will be for anyone else, but for filming over winter it was especially challenging. The days were short so we had to plan around small windows for shooting, along with weather being a nuisance at times – but that’s winter. It was also hard to manage so many people and locations.
There were times I knew time management wasn’t the best on my part, but it was something that the project taught me the importance of, and when things are planned well, you can achieve a lot in a short time. I was still studying for my final year during most of the production, and managed to keep up relatively well with both. Sarah and Stacey from the Marketing team were incredibly understanding of my time constraints being in my final year, and we still managed to make everything work in the end.
I think the biggest learning of the project was how to plan for such a large production. I had already started building a way of working for bigger projects of my own; however this was truly on another level.
I had always worked solo on my projects, so learning how to build something effective but collaborative was important, and once again the marketing team was great at facilitating the way I work and incorporating it into theirs. Our team on the destination film were great at always sharing things and getting back quickly to everyone at every step of the process, and it really felt like there was a smooth system in place.
So, I guess teamwork is the most important thing I learned. You are always going to be working with people who do things differently, so finding that balance of personal workflow and teamwork for planning and creation was great.
What is the one thing you would like viewers to take away from the campaign?
The one thing I can say honestly has been there since the beginning as the key motivator for me in the campaign, has to be that I want people to just find one thing – one thing they haven’t done, haven’t seen, haven’t been to – and go and explore it, discover something they might love. Maybe you don’t like something, maybe it’s not for you, but going out and doing these things is how you find something to love.
Take this, for example, Aberdeenshire is where my absolutely crazy fascination with coffee comes from. The small group of people who will stand and chat over how we changed the water by a few degrees and got a different taste? That’s the things I want people to go and find. And shoutout to the amazing coffee scene in Aberdeen, for a small place, this is just one of the things people are so passionate about, and there’s plenty more like it.
What is your own experience of living and studying in Aberdeen?
Having studied in Ayrshire for a year before deciding to study at RGU back home, I can say the experience for myself was different to what I imagine any other city is. You are in such a great place to get everything – the Highlands, Cairngorms, Edinburgh, all perfectly within reach when you want to go somewhere else, but there are so many amazing places around Aberdeen and especially the shire that I love.
It’s not the biggest place ever, but there’s something nice about that, everything is close together, and never feels out of reach. I personally love that I live outside of the city, but I am a half hour drive from the University or city centre, so I get this change from city to country in a small space that I love, it keeps me feeling free to do anything and refreshed every time I go somewhere. Not to mention all the great places I still love finding that aren’t that far, as a filmmaker and photographer, the changes in scenery are incredible for me, and just this year I have covered landscape, cityscape, and seaside fishing towns without ever leaving Aberdeenshire.
My experience comes down to exploring places and appreciating the variety available you just don’t get elsewhere, and the people within that space.
Quickfire Questions
Best spot for coffee?
I am far too into coffee at this point, but if you want something in town, Cult of Coffee is the place to go. Outside Aberdeen, The Coffee Apothecary is where it all started for me, that will forever be my number one.
Best Brunch Spot?
Has to be Mount Café and their brunch club. Jack and Lauren are the best and just have this amazing community feeling there, and they know their brunch menu.
Bar of Pub?
Fierce is always on the list, you cant beat a menu of crafts like that. It’s a small but mighty place, many good nights to be had.
Desperate to try?
Strangely it’s Sugarbird! Although I have had drinks, being there for the film and capturing that grazing platter? Will be attending without the camera this time.
Best Bakery?
Bandit bakery just gets it right every time, their sourdough is the best and they always cook up something crazy every week. SourCloud is one to look for, they are small but do the best pastries in town if you are quick enough.
Drink of choice and where are you having it?
Jubel peach every time, either at Ivy Lodge or if it’s a speakeasy type of night, Under the Hammer.
Somewhere that surprised you?
Greyhope bay. It might look like it’s still part of the city, but it’s a great place to unwind that I never expected, and on the coast road too which is always a great one.
A hidden spot you love?
The Flat stones to me, or known as the Lords Throat. Its my side of town, but the most amazing little place to chill out on a nice day.
Where are you going on your day off?
I am usually found on such days at the Coffee Apothecary. Days off are rare, but when they come around I will work my way down their reserve coffee menu. It’s a place I always know is great to relax with friends or a book.
