A distinction in Paramedic Science for Kayleigh
Kayleigh Doran from Musselburgh has just graduated with distinction in BSc Paramedic Science from Queen Margaret University (QMU), Edinburgh.
The former Musselburgh Grammar student, who is now 26 years old, is the first person in her family to graduate with a university degree.
When she was younger, Kayleigh had several encounters with paramedics. She was often treated by paramedic crews when experiencing severe asthma attacks. She explained: “I was always so impressed and appreciative of the service I received. The paramedics never made me feel like a burden – instead, they made me feel really great when I was scared and struggling to breathe. They were so kind, caring and supportive, and they became my inspiration and my driver to achieve a degree in paramedic science.”
She continued: “I studied an HNC at Edinburgh College, which helped get me into the three-year BSc Paramedic Science at Queen Margaret University.”
It’s favourable that prospective students, who wish to secure a place on the BSc Paramedic Science course at QMU, can showcase that they have gained a variety of different life and working experiences that align with the degree. For the last four years, Kayleigh has worked with the Volunteer Street Assist Edinburgh team, a first aid welfare charity that helps people get home safely on weekends after having been out in the city centre. The service takes pressure off the NHS and ambulance services. Kayleigh said: “I really love volunteering with the Street Assist team. It’s such a valuable service and I have been delighted to continue to volunteer with the team throughout the duration of my degree.”
My dream was always to study at Queen Margaret University. I loved the strong feeling of community, which QMU is well known for, and I never felt that I was lost in the crowd. I liked the small vibes and the feeling like you belong, and that you are part of something which is really positive and supportive. And I really enjoyed the course with its great mix of academic work, theory, hands on learning and NHS placements.
Kayleigh confirmed: “I’m delighted to have achieved my goal of getting my degree, but to graduate with distinction is the icing on the cake, and a great reward for all the years of hard work. I feel like a positive advert for education for my two sisters and brother, and I’m really excited for my future as a paramedic working for the NHS. I think it will be a really rewarding career.”
Kayleigh has applied for Newly Qualified Paramedic (NQP) roles all over the UK, and is waiting to hear back about interviews.
Kayleigh was able to celebrate her success with her mum, dad and sister who attended an impressive graduation ceremony at Edinburgh’s Usher Hall, followed by a reception on the University’s campus.
At what was the first of three QMU graduation ceremonies to take place in July, Kayleigh was joined by Patrick Grant, entrepreneur and judge of BBC One’s ‘The Great British Sewing Bee’, who was officially installed as QMU’s new Chancellor. Kayleigh was in good company at the ceremony on 7th July, as she and her fellow graduates were also joined by Carol Rogers, Scotland’s leading forensic scientist. Carol, who is best known for her work on serial killer Peter Tobin’s case, was awarded an honorary degree for advancing the field of forensic science, particularly in relation to investigations of sexual offences across Scotland.
For further media information contact Lynne Russell, Communications Manager, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, E: lrussell@qmu.ac.uk , copy to: pressoffice@qmu.ac.uk.
