For Gemma, studying Business at Queen Margaret University was a practical and empowering step towards career progression. Balancing full-time work with her studies, she was drawn to QMU’s supportive learning environment and the opportunity to build new knowledge while continuing to develop professionally. Throughout her time at QMU, Gemma benefited from the diverse perspectives of her classmates, the encouragement of dedicated lecturers, and the chance to apply her learning in real-world contexts. Since graduating, she has continued to progress in her career within local government, building on the strong foundations and confidence gained during her time at QMU.
Why did you choose to study at QMU and what attracted you to the course?
I’d been thinking about undertaking some formal education for a while – I was working full-time in East Lothian Council and enjoying my job, but needed a degree in order to progress and be considered for promoted roles. I’d always felt capable of completing a degree, but wasn’t in a position where I could leave my job to study full-time, so when the opportunity to be part of the inaugural Business Management Graduate Apprenticeship programme came up, it was the perfect solution! I was familiar with the university campus, as in my role at the time, I had worked collaboratively with QMU on projects, and had an office on campus in the Business Innovation Zone. I also live very locally, so it was an ideal set-up for me.
What did you enjoy most about your course?
The people! Returning to formal education after such a long time was daunting, but I feel incredibly fortunate that our group supported each other from the very start. We all came from different backgrounds, work and life experiences, but that diversity added so much to the learning throughout the course and our studies. Having such varied perspectives within our small group was hugely valuable. On top of that, our lecturers were fantastic and so supportive.
Were there any particular course activities you found especially interesting?
I genuinely enjoyed almost all of the modules. While some were more directly relevant to my role at the time than others, I really valued the opportunity to explore new subjects and gain knowledge that I wouldn’t have otherwise had. That broader learning was not only enjoyable at the time but has also proved beneficial in my work since, such as Business Law and HRM. There were also a couple of modules I didn’t enjoy as much at the time, but they’ve also since proven to be beneficial.
How did your lecturers support your learning?
The lecturers and tutors at Queen Margaret Business School are fantastic! They were all knowledgeable, approachable, and incredibly supportive, which was so important for us with all the additional pressures of working full-time and keeping up with our studies.
What challenges did you face with the course and/or university life? How did you overcome them?
The biggest and ongoing challenge was managing time and creating a positive balance of work, study, and life during term time. The key was staying organised—creating a realistic schedule and focusing fully on the task at hand. When it was work time, I worked; when it was study time, the work laptop was switched off, and I tried to keep distractions kept to a minimum. Being prepared for campus sessions and making the most of face-to-face time with lecturers and my classmates was also so important.
Even with as much preparation as possible, there were times when it was overwhelming. Additionally, as part of the Graduate Apprenticeship, having an employer invested in my learning added an extra layer of pressure.
Do you have any advice for students who might be interested in this course?
Go for it! I’d always encourage anyone to take the step and further their education. The GA programmes really offer the best of both worlds—working and earning while studying—but it’s important to acknowledge that it can be challenging. You’ll need to stay organised and be realistic about your priorities, but in the long run, it’s an investment that really does pay off.
Did you win any awards/scholarship/internships, etc., that helped you develop skills and experience?
I was the recipient of the Dean’s Cup. The prize recognises the highest academic achievement and is awarded to one student per Business School programme each year.
If applicable, which University services did you use to support you through your university journey and how did they help you?
With only one day on campus, opportunities to take up support and utilise services were limited, but all the Effective Learning Service (ELS) staff were always very helpful when needed.
What’s your ‘top tip’ for making the most of being a student?
I think firstly I’d say – turn up! It might seem obvious, but life is demanding and stressful but you really have to make the most of your teaching and campus time.
And also – don’t be afraid to ask the questions and start the discussions! Whether that’s in tutorials (remember the lecturers are experts for a reason – utilise them!) or within your class group – getting the perspectives and views of people with completely different life and work experiences from you is invaluable.
What was the most valuable lesson that you learned at university?
As before, the opportunity to engage with people you wouldn’t normally come across and get the benefit of their experiences and points of view. Additionally, the GA model works so well as you are able to put your learning into practice, almost straight away a lot of the time. I’ve also become much more reflective since doing the course, which has been really valuable for me personally.
Can you tell us about your life post-graduation (your career path, notable achievements, etc.)?
After graduating, I secured a promoted post with East Lothian Council. After a year, I decided to seek new challenges and experience within a larger authority, so I applied for a role at Fife Council, which I began in April 2023. Since then, I have transitioned into another position within Fife Council, in a different area that I am enjoying and which is helping me broaden my knowledge and expertise.
I’ve also undertaken further formal learning and CPD to continue developing both professionally and personally. None of this would have been possible without earning my degree from QMU!
