Emma Dressel - GA BA (Hons) Business Management

The 42-year-old from Inverurie has secured first class honours in GA BA (Hons) in Business Management after successfully balancing the course with employment and family commitments.

Emma said: “The opportunity to study was presented to me by my manager, and as someone who has a passion for learning, I simply couldn’t pass it up. It felt like the perfect time to return to education with greater experience and focus. I believe in continuous learning and in challenging myself to grow both personally and professionally, so pursuing a degree would expand my knowledge, enhance my skills and bring fresh ideas back into my career.”

Emma left the then Aberdeen College two decades ago with a Higher National Diploma in Accounting and Finance before entering the world of work with the intention of returning to learning at a later stage.

During her time on the course Emma achieved promotion and is now a Business Development Director with First Integrated. Emma’s career route aligned with the course and she was able to build on many of the skills she picked during her working life.

Reflecting on her achievements, Emma feels it shows that any can benefit from higher education no matter what.

Emma said: “I feel incredibly proud of what I have achieved and grateful for the experience. Returning to university later in life while balancing a demanding career and family life was never going to be easy, but it has been one of the most rewarding challenges I’ve ever taken on. My time at RGU has been inspiring. The support from tutors, the quality of teaching, and the chance to apply academic theory directly to real business challenges made the experience both meaningful and motivating. It’s something I will carry forward proudly in both my professional and personal life.

“What may make my journey unique is that I returned to education after twenty years in industry, all while working full-time and progressing into a senior leadership role. Balancing study with the responsibilities of leading a business, managing a team and family life was challenging at times, but it proved that with focus, support and determination, anything is achievable.

“A particularly proud moment was being promoted to Business Development Director during my studies, a milestone that reflected not only my professional growth but also the skills I enhanced and gained through the course. I hope my experience can highlight that university isn’t just for those starting out, it’s for anyone ready to grow. evolve, and challenge themselves, no matter what stage of life, career or family commitments they have.”