Do you remember your first day at RGU?

I moved to Aberdeen from Orkney, starting university when I had not long turned 17. My dad helped me move all my belongings down on the overnight ferry, helped me unpack my room, and left me to my own devices. I remember being nervous being away from home for the first time, especially in a city having grown up on such a rural and remote island. However, my nerves quickly subsided upon attending the university.

My first day was actually my first day on campus as I had not attended any open day events. I took the First Bus with my newly acquired bus pass and made the journey from King Street to the campus. Having joined a group chat prior to the course starting, I had already virtually befriended some of my course mates who had also grown up in the isles, and I met with them prior to attending our first lecture. The main thing that stands out to me was that I remember feeling blown away by the facilities and relieved to be studying on such a beautiful campus as I looked down onto the River Dee. Throughout my 7 years at the university, my appreciation for the River Dee remained, being my view from the 7th floor of the library for each of my undergraduate assignments, and whilst writing my PhD thesis.

Why did you choose to study at RGU?

Honestly, when I applied to university through UCAS, I initially had applied to four BA (Hons) Psychology courses and one Social Sciences course. Whilst I enjoyed psychology as a subject, I came to realise that I am someone who is also incredibly intrigued by the complexities of society, which naturally drew me towards sociology as a discipline. Naturally, the BA (Hons) Social Sciences course at RGU felt like the right fit for myself and my academic interests, and this ultimately made the decision for me. Looking back, I am so glad that I went with my gut on this decision, as my time at RGU has opened so many doors for me, including the opportunity to undertake my doctoral studies.

How would you describe the learning environment and support you experienced?

The learning environment and support I received at RGU was incredible, particularly during my final year of my undergraduate degree and doctoral studies. I was extremely lucky to have been allocated Dr. Natascha Mueller-Hirth as my dissertation supervisor in my final year of my undergraduate degree. Not only did I find our academic relationship supportive and inspiring, but it also aided my passion for research and she helped me to realise my own potential and strengths in this field. It was Natascha who suggested I apply for a PhD scholarship at RGU based on the work I had submitted thus far in the year. This recognition opened so many doors for me, not only in relation to my PhD, but further opportunities to work collaboratively on projects I felt very passionate about and would drive fundamental change for victims of domestic abuse; an area I feel very passionate about. Had I not had such a supportive experience at RGU, I don’t think I would have had the same opportunities and career that I do today.

Did you take part in any placements, internships, or industry projects during your studies?

During my PhD, I was involved in a number of research projects surrounding domestic abuse in rural, remote and island communities, like the one I grew up in. This work was extremely rewarding, not only from the perspective of my own professional development, but also from the impact these projects had across the domestic abuse landscape. My involvement in these projects has allowed me to support the publication of reports and academic journal articles, present to a range of stakeholders, including third sector organisations, police, and MSPs, contribute to government Calls for Evidence and Roundtables, present the findings at international academic conferences, and ultimately improve the support provided to victims of domestic abuse. 

In what ways did your course prepare you for your career?

My PhD equipped me with invaluable skills that enabled me to grow and develop as an independent and analytical researcher. During my doctoral studies, I was working for my current employer, the Youth Justice Board for England and Wales. I initially joined the organisation as a Business Support Officer, providing secretariat support to the Research team. However, as my doctoral studies enhanced my confidence and capability in designing, managing, and delivering robust research projects, I increasingly applied these skills in my role. This allowed me to contribute directly to the development and strengthening of the youth justice evidence base, going above and beyond my job role. Over time, my contributions facilitated by my PhD aided me in securing various promotions, leading to my current position of Senior Research Officer.

Tell us about your current role and what a typical day looks like.

In my current role as a Senior Research Officer at the Youth Justice Board, I contribute to the Youth Justice Board’s oversight of the youth justice system by generating, commissioning, and interpreting high‑quality research and evidence. My work directly supports the YJB’s ambition for a Child First youth justice system, ensuring that our advice to Ministers and stakeholders is grounded in robust, timely and relevant evidence.

A typical day for me can be highly varied. Much of my time is spent designing and managing research projects, both internal and externally commissioned. This includes developing research proposals, shaping methodologies, managing research contracts, quality‑assuring outputs, and ensuring all work meets Government Social Research ethical standards. Currently, I am managing a research project to understand the youth justice system’s response to Child Criminal Exploitation. In addition to my project work, my day-to-day role often requires me to translate complex research, data and sector intelligence into evidence packs that contribute to and strengthen the evidence base. Products I have produced include comprehensive evidence packs on victims, knife crime, and supporting care leavers to prevent custody, focusing on what works to improve children’s outcomes.

What’s a career moment you’ll never forget?

The most emotive career moment for me was passing my PhD Viva. I will never forget the feeling of relief being told that all my hard work over the 3 years of studying had paid off. The contributions I have made to the domestic abuse landscape stand among the achievements that are most memorable. A defining moment was receiving the Scottish Institute for Policing Research Impact Award for my team’s work examining how the COVID‑19 pandemic affected partnerships between police and third‑sector gender‑based‑violence service providers across rural, remote, and island communities in Scotland. This research continues to resonate. I am frequently approached by academics and practitioners in Orkney who want to discuss the findings with me. These conversations are always so meaningful and are a reminder of the value and real-world impact of this work.

What one piece of advice would you give to an RGU student today?

I would encourage RGU students to embrace any opportunities that come their way as you never know what direction and path they will set you on. RGU is made up of a team of staff who genuinely want to see you thrive, so make the most of that environment whilst it is there.