Making memories at Summer Graduations 2019
The University’s summer graduation ceremonies took place in June, when hundreds of students celebrated success with family, friends and loved ones at our historic King’s College campus.
Throughout the week we focused on the achievements of many of our graduates, who now join our worldwide alumni community spread across 170 countries.
Here are just a few examples of inspiring graduates who have overcome adversity and achieved success during their time in Aberdeen…
Agathe Dugleux and Cosmin Mogosanu
For Agathe Dugleux and Cosmin Mogosanu life in Aberdeen led to love, and now the couple are set to embark on a new adventure together.
Agathe, who is from France, and Cosmin, from Romania, are moving to Sweden after graduating from the University of Aberdeen Business School with degrees in Business Management, and Economics and Finance respectively.
Having met in first year, the pair’s friendship blossomed into romance, and now they will both study for their Masters degrees at Lund University.
Looking back on their time at Aberdeen, Cosmin said: “As a city Aberdeen offers so much in terms of career development with lots of companies offering opportunities for placement. And the lecturers here are so approachable and really helpful.”
Agathe added: “I loved being part of life at the University, especially the gymnastics society which I joined up to. Overall the experience has been great.
Maya Sherpa
From the Himalayan foothills to Old Aberdeen, Maya Sherpa has come a long way to graduate with a degree in psychology.
Maya, originally from Nepal, struggled with mental health issues after being hospitalised and diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 15, however that led to an interest in pursuing a career where she could help others.
“I realised that a lot of people suffer in silence and are ashamed to speak up about their problems due to the stigma around mental health, but I want to help educate people,” she said.
Now planning to travel the world, her ultimate ambition is to achieve a doctorate in clinical psychology.
As a Robertson Trust scholar, Maya has benefited from financial assistance through the University’s Development Trust, and this – along with the support of her family – has helped her achieve her dreams.
“My parents were not able to attend school because their parents did not have the financial stability to support them, but they wanted to create a better life for their children,” she said. “I was able to achieve my dreams of studying because they always supported and believed in me.”
Kelsey Stewart
On the track and in the classroom, Kelsey Stewart has excelled during her time at the University of Aberdeen. Graduating with a degree in Exercise and Health Sciences, she is now aiming for Commonwealth and Olympic success in her specialist event, the 4x400m relay.
With a trip to Australia as part of Scotland’s Commonwealth Games squad already under her belt, Stonehaven-born Kelsey has established herself as ‘one to watch’ in future.
As a Sports Bursar, Kelsey has benefited from support through the University’s Sports and Exercise Team, and the flexibility to balance training with her studies has been invaluable.
“I have had a fantastic time studying here,” she said. “The School of Medical Science feels like a family with staff who are very accommodating and flexible, ensuring that every student’s experience is a positive one.
“In my case, this was beneficial before going to the Commonwealth Games where I was allowed to sit a couple of assessments beforehand, allowing me to focus on preparing for the event.
“Also, the sports bursary programme in Aberdeen is one of the best in the country and there is a great support network there for when things do not go smoothly.”
Megan Mackay
Taking to the waves helped Megan Mackay cope with the grief of losing her twin brother while studying towards her degree, and has inspired her to help others dealing with trauma.
Megan, whose brother Ruairidh died in a tragic accident while she was in second year, has built up a reputation as one of Scotland’s best female surfers during her time at university, where she was a member of Aberdeen University Surf Club.
Graduating with a BSc in Geology and Petroleum Geology, Megan is embarking on a career as a petrophysicist. As well as continuing to compete in surf competitions internationally, Megan plans to help others whose struggles might be alleviated by taking to the waves.
“What I’d really like to do is help people who have gone through traumatic events, or who are struggling with mental health issues, using surf therapy,” she said.
“Surfing has helped me so much, not only in terms of dealing with the loss of my brother but in every aspect of my life. It has made me a more confident person, and I’d like to show others how it can help them too.”
