Overcoming his own doubts about his ability to study at university has resulted in David McFie graduating with an honours degree in theology from the University of Aberdeen.
David (55) has dyslexia, and he admits that this led him to question whether he would be capable of completing the studies he embarked upon in 2019, following a stint as an online student studying christian and religious studies as he trained for a Church of Scotland Readership.
But he was determined to show his true potential and was inspired by the help he has received from others to achieve his dream.
“Being dyslexic i have always been apprehensive towards education but I have always been fully supported wherever I’ve been taught, including at the University of Aberdeen, and that has been crucial in helping me realise just what I could achieve,” he explained.
Away from his studies David made the most of his time at university, joining the student-led Theology and Religious Studies Society while indulging a broad range of interests, including religious history, visiting museums and art galleries, and music.
Originally from Rothesay on the Isle of Bute, he now lives in New Deer in Aberdeenshire where his wife is a parish minister, and where he indulges his passion for singing with the church choir.
Describing his achievement as “unbelievable” David is continuing his work as a Reader with the Church of Scotland, but now plans to use his degree to look at a career opportunities in social care and chaplaincy.
Reflecting on his time in Aberdeen, he added: “I overcame so many doubts that I had in my own ability and in the end I feel that I have shown my true potential.”