RGU ALUMNI MAGAZINE
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2019 ISSUE 5
Read unexpected stories
Comment Welcome to the Spring 2019 Issue of the RGU Alumni Magazine
In this issue we speak with Eugenio about his role as
We want to thank all our alumni who have contributed
a diplomat, representing the Dominican Republic on
to this issue of the RGU Alumni Magazine for sharing
the worldwide stage, and we hear Andrew’s exciting
their stories, thoughts and advice with our worldwide
journey from student, to innovator, to entrepreneur.
alumni community. If you have a story you would like
Our School of Engineering lecturers share their views
to share, please contact us on the details below.
on the impact industry changes are having on the way we teach, and there’s an opportunity to expand
Thank you for taking the time to read this magazine,
your own knowledge through our latest webinars and
and for your continued support of RGU.
professional lectures. Collaboration is the focus of this issue – whether it’s collaborating on a business venture or product, or even collaborating on an art project that spans the
CONTACT US
Atlantic. The ability to work well as part of a team is an important trait to have in both your personal and your professional life, and our featured alumni are fantastic examples of what can be achieved with hard work, dedication and collaboration.
Mail: RGU Alumni Robert Gordon University Garthdee Road Aberdeen, AB10 7QB Email: service@alumni.rgu.ac.uk Phone: +44 (0)1224 262285
In This Issue Reconnect
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News in Brief Collaboration in the Workplace Startup Accelerator Changing Engineering Skills Alumni Mentoring Impact In Conversation With Professorial Lectures
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Graduates Diplomacy in Action From Innovation to Hydration A Meteoric Rise
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Unexpected
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islandness Alumni Updates University Boat Race Meet our International Staff Keep in Touch
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News in Brief Apprenticeships for Punks One of the most notable companies in the north-east – the multinational brewery BrewDog – has taken another ‘punk’ step by becoming one of the latest organisations to sign up to the Graduate Apprenticeship (GA) scheme at RGU.
Gary MacTaggart has been in position as BrewDog’s Planning Manager for the past year and is proud to be acting as a mentor to colleague Louise Wyllie as she works towards her GA. Read more
Nesting Wildlife A mature student who is studying MA Fine Art at Gray’s School of Art has created a large-scale public artwork in Maryculter Woods, to benefit both the local wildlife and the community.
Stanley Brooks has built ‘The Nest’ from rare Greenheart Wood, salvaged from the Sullum Voe Oil Terminal, and the sculpture will breathe new life into the woodland by creating a home for insects, birds and mammals. Read more
Brae Bravo Captured on Film Life on Marathon Oil’s Brae Bravo platform has been captured for posterity by a team of talented photography students to mark the end of production on the installation.
A team of four photography students from Gray’s School of Art spent six months last year taking pictures of the North Sea installation and its workforce for the Traces exhibition. Read more
Antarctic Adventure Harry Campbell, a third year Law student at RGU’s Law School, spent his Winter break supporting the UK Antarctic Trust in Antarctica.
Harry shared his blog about this incredible experience. Read more 4
The Cost of Safety Oil and gas companies are making huge savings and boosting safety thanks to a unique industry partnership between leading simulator developer, Drilling Systems, and RGU.
The Oil and Gas Institute at RGU is working with Drilling Systems and its innovative drilling, well control and lifting simulator technology to help oil and gas companies identify ways to improve efficiencies and raise safety standards, which in turn is leading to substantial cost saving. Read more
New Graduate Apprenticeships RGU continues to lead the way in innovative work-based learning after being awarded a new suite of Graduate Apprenticeships by Skills Development Scotland.
180 fully-funded Graduate Apprenticeship places will be available across a range of disciplines including business management, construction, engineering and data science. Read more
Tuk-tuks and Tourism Craig Leith, Senior Lecturer and Subject Leader in Hospitality, Tourism and Events, discusses his research work in Cambodia.
The research, which has been funded by the Scottish Funding Council’s Global Challenges Research Fund, will identify how the cumulative effect of changes within the tourism environment will impact a particular sector – in this case tuk-tuk drivers in Cambodia. Read more
Q&A with Dr Jenna Ross In recognition of International Women’s Day we spoke with RGU alumna Dr Jenna Ross, who was recently shortlisted as one of the top MBA students in the world.
She tells us about her fascinating career, and how she combined her passion for agriculture with her PhD research. Read more
Opinion
Glazing Over Technology Ceramicists, potters, artists and sculptors are set to benefit from a brand new digital resource which provides a full spectrum of natural colour glazes and details of how best to create them.
Developed by Gray’s School of Art Technical Services Officer Helen Love, in collaboration with Aberdeen-based creative design studio Design and Code, ‘The Glaze Spectrum’ will provide an open source platform for anyone to use. Read more
Cancer Nutrition Study Maintaining a healthy diet and being physically active are important steps for cancer survivors - this is the focus of a new study being launched across the north of Scotland by RGU and CLAN Cancer Support.
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The new study invites men and women who have completed their cancer treatment, to attend the two day course – ‘EatWell@CLAN’ – in either Aberdeen, Elgin or Kirkwall, with dates taking place over the next two months. Read more
Creativity and Revolution Libby Curtis, Head of Gray’s School of Art, discusses the importance of creativity and culture within society.
Culture and creative activity play a leading role in animating a city, its spaces and its people. But the ‘value’ of creative and cultural activity is presented normally through relatively narrow economic metrics of new job creation, revitalised tourism, visitor numbers and spend in the city. That though is not the only, or perhaps most significant, benefit that is derived from the creative sector. Read more
Europe as a Partner RGU Principal, Professor John Harper, discusses the importance of links with Europe from a student and research perspective.
Europe has been, and always will be, an important partner for the higher education sector in Scotland. It is hard to overstate the value of links with Europe for funding opportunities, research collaborations and the greater diversity which European students and staff bring to universities. Read more
Mental Health of Scotland’s Farmers A newly launched research project at RGU is set to explore and enhance the mental wellbeing of the nation’s farming population.
The team of researchers from RGU’s School of Health Sciences and NHS Grampian are looking to work with the farming community to listen to a range of opinions on mental health and what can be done to improve it. Read more
Going Green Dr Leslie Mabon, Reader in Environment and Society in the School of Applied Social Studies, discusses what society can do to adapt to climate change.
Hotter summers, harder rain and more hail and snow in winter. This was the take home message from a recent event in Edinburgh where the Met Office outlined their latest climate projections for Scotland over the coming years and decades. Read more
Art Weekender Artists Unveiled Look Again has announced the winners of its annual Seed Fund, which provides funding and support for artists and designers with a strong link to the north-east.
This year will see the four Seed Fund commissions, made up of seven artists who are all alumni of Gray’s, propose new work around the theme of ‘New Narratives’. Read more
Foodbanks and Long-term Health Conditions RGU and Community Food Initiatives North East (CFINE) are carrying out research to find out how those on a limited income and using foodbanks cope with a long-term health condition.
The study aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people who may be struggling to manage their long-term health condition due to financial insecurity. Read more
Collaboration in the Workplace How to Prove You Really are a Team Player
Here Helen Scott, Careers Consultant at RGU, gives advice on being an effective team player.
The importance of collaboration in the workplace is nothing new, but in recent years employers have put a greater focus on hiring individuals who can work effectively as part of a team.
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Job applications are increasingly including questions such as: ‘Tell us about a time when you worked in a team: what was your role, how did you approach the task and how would you sum up your contribution?’ Employers need to recruit staff who can don a variety of hats, from team leader on one project, to a supporting or advisory role on another.
In an international market, employers understand the benefits of hiring different types of people to enhance their business. For example, an investment bank might seek to recruit individuals from a Physics or Engineering background to bring fresh thinking styles and new approaches to the business. In addition, globalisation means that teams are often comprised of people of different nationalities with widely differing educational backgrounds, learning styles and cultural experiences. Cloud computing and faster internet connections has given rise to tools enabling employees to collaborate from different locations and time zones.
Often, students experience working in teams for the first time on university projects, becoming aware of the pitfalls and challenges which arise when people with different opinions come together to complete a specific task. All too often, without direction and the appropriate support, such teams can fall apart. However, if this happens in business, time and money can be wasted, hence the emphasis on probing for evidence of high level team skills during the hiring process. So, how best can you present your skills as a team player when you’re seeking a new role? The key is to be able to articulate clearly where and how you’ve acquired your skills, including times when you played a supporting role as well times when you were team leader. Detail is key. Ensure you provide sufficient evidence in applications and at interview by using the ‘STAR’ acronym to describe your experience: S = Situation: Outline the team project were you working on. T = Task: Describe the task the team was required to undertake. A = Action: Detail your own actions within the team; what was your role on this occasion?
Photo by John Schnobrich
R = Result: Explain what impact your contribution had on the project in question.
Structuring your CV content and application responses in this way, provides clear evidence to the employer that you are someone who can and will work as part of a team. Finally, remember that the key to successful collaborative working is listening to others and considering their ideas, even when they’re not in tune with your own. Listen also, for the unsaid. The body language of colleagues can be as revealing as their words when it comes to understanding their attitudes and responses to ideas. Seek to clarify if you don’t fully understand and never assume you know what a member of your team is thinking. With roles becoming increasingly specialised, it is likely that employers will be putting more emphasis on collaborative working to accomplish tasks so it makes sense to get to grips with team working now in order to be ready to demonstrate that you can do it, when the time comes.
Startup Accelerator A number of alumni-led companies are receiving funding and business support from RGU as part of the University’s new Startup Accelerator programme. w More than 160 teams entered the application process, which was open to companies led by students, staff and recent alumni from RGU and North East Scotland College (NESCol). The winning 28 teams were chosen by a panel of 40 judges which included 30 international industry experts. The teams are now receiving £10,000 funding, mentor support to develop their skills, structured training over a period of six months, and access to incubation space with hot desking facilities.
The teams selected to join the Startup Accelerator represent a range of sectors including creative industries, food and beverage, healthcare, education and technology. They include applications for physical products, software, sustainable manufacturing and mobile apps. Read the next issue of the RGU Alumni Magazine to find out more about how our alumni-led teams are progressing.
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Alumni-led
Judges
Teams
28 Teams
Selected
160 Applications Started
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£10K Funding
Changing Engineering Skills Paula Rorie, Lecturer at RGU’s School of Engineering and Programme Leader for MSc Engineering, shares her thoughts with Duncan Stephen, Academic Strategic Lead (Energy Centre) on changing skills needs in the engineering sector. RGU has an outstanding reputation for graduate employability in Engineering and with the 45 years of engagement with the oil and gas sector, is well placed to serve those looking for a skills refresh to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow. The upstream oil and gas industry has always been cyclical and mobile. In order for engineers to take advantage of the fantastic opportunities this sector offers, adaptability has always been an essential attribute. The cyclical nature of the business can bring real challenges to those negatively affected by downturns – usually driven by oil price of course, but now also increasingly by rising costs in mature basins such as found in the North Sea. However, from challenge always comes opportunity. Adaptability is a vital attribute and the ability to demonstrate this can open many career possibilities . The concept of ‘The big crewchange’ is well recognised in the oil and gas sector. This issue is still very much alive, as the recent downturn has accelerated experienced but costly staff retiring, and added to constraints on recruitment and early to mid-career training budgets. As a result, there are opportunities for rapid progression for those in early to mid-career positions with the adaptability and mobility to follow industry trends. For example, the shift in emphasis in the UK away from Exploration and Appraisal to Enhanced Oil Recovery and Decommissioning as areas of demand. An alternative career strategy for some, is to consider transferring into other industries, and one of the best things an engineer can do to enable this, is to consolidate their competence through CEng.
RGU can help in both these scenarios with our flexible MSc Engineering programme. I believe a lot of engineers face a difficult decision when it comes to amending their career path and training in specific new skills. Traditional learning methods like full time Masters degrees do not offer much flexibility, either financially or in terms of what can be learnt and when. Equally, the primary motivation for many is to expand their knowledge of particular areas rather than doing a formal qualification. Our postgraduate courses such as MSc Engineering, are predominantly studied online, allowing students the flexibility to continue studying alongside their job, no matter where they are in the world. We have rolled out this concept and now offer more than 30 online modules from all different facets of engineering – from business and project management to drilling, well engineering, asset management and solar energy. Individuals can chose to select a module relevant to their own experience and their own career aspirations, giving them an opportunity to follow their own bespoke training path. In as little as 14 weeks they can complete a professional module, or they can spread a number of modules over several years to complete a Postgraduate Certificate, a Postgraduate Diploma or even a Masters degree. This industry knowledge and skills gap needs to be addressed as we lose more trained, experienced engineers to retirement and to other sectors in the coming years. We’re aiming to address that skills gap as far as we can, while offering individuals as much flexibility as possible to minimise the impact on their work and home lives. We aim to be as adaptable as the industry we serve. To find out more about the MSc Engineering course and the available Continued Professional Development modules, please visit our website.
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Alumni Mentoring Impact RGU offers a mentoring programme to support Postgraduate students, by matching them with an experienced alumnus in a relevant field. We are pleased to have matched 38 individuals in the latest round of the scheme. The students and mentors involved represent a range of courses and schools from across the University. Mentors are encouraged to share their experiences in professional industry with their mentee, and to inspire them with and wisdom and professional knowledge which they feel will benefit the mentee. Common conversations between mentors and mentees might include how the mentor got to where they are in their career, what professional challenges the mentor has had to overcome, and what it is like to work in a certain industry. Mentors may also be asked to provide direction and feedback on CVs and job applications. Mentoring a student can provide a number of benefits including: •Improved communication and interpersonal skills •Promoting leadership and management qualities •Enhancing your CV with a valuable volunteering role •Promoting self-reflection and reinforcing your own subject knowledge
RGU alumna Jennifer Mulcair (MSc Public Health, 2018) is mentoring Zainab Olatunji, a fourth year BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science student. Commenting on her experience, Jennifer said: Having spent the best part of a decade studying at RGU, first as an undergraduate studying Nutrition, then subsequently working towards an MSc in Public Health, I relished the opportunity to give something back. With the benefit of hindsight I know that I would have benefitted greatly from such a scheme – both in terms of completing my studies, and preparing me for life after university. I initially saw the programme advertised within the university, and the process to get involved was very straight forward. When I applied I was told I would be matched with a student who was best-suited to my background and experience - not necessarily a course-for-course match, but possibly someone in a similar field. Within a month I received an email introducing me to my mentee – a Biomedical Sciences student. Although my own studies were in Nutrition and Public Health, there was a clear overlap there. We exchanged emails initially, arranging to meet in person as soon as possible – I think we met within a fortnight of our first contact. We just had an informal chat, which allowed us both to explore our expectations. My mentee was particularly interested in my experience so far in the workplace, and the transition from university to work life. Subsequently we started to discuss her goals, and next steps once she had completed her degree. My mentee already had a clear plan, and it was apparent instantly how driven and focused she was. Becoming a mentor has certainly enhanced many of my own skills – communication, relaying information to someone from a different background, and objective setting.
Jennifer Mulcair
Photo by Joshua Ness
It’s also caused me to reflect far more on my own personal and professional experiences – things I maybe took for granted in the past have now become areas of focus. For example, I now have a much clearer idea of where my real passions lie, what I want to do with my own life and career, and what experiences have significantly contributed to who and where I am now. Feeling like my experiences and knowledge are of benefit to someone else has undoubtedly made me a more confident person. Prior to the mentoring commencing, I was somewhat anxious about how much I could contribute as I’m still relatively young, and a recent graduate. However working with my mentee has highlighted to me just how much tangible, worthwhile experience I have gained so far. In a work capacity I’ve also gained confidence in my ability to lead and manage.
which I was sent an email with a link to attach my CV and answer some questions on the careers website. I usually keep in touch with my mentor in-person as well as via email, as much as I need to. She’s keen on knowing how I’m getting on with my plans. The scheme has been of immense impact to me as I was perfectly paired with someone who has a similar passion for making a difference and pursuing goals. My mentor has been extremely helpful in helping my plan my next and future career steps, and I’ve learnt a great deal of lessons from her experiences.
I would absolutely recommend getting involved. It’s been such a rewarding experience and has definitely aided my own growth, as well as that of my mentee. Zainab added: As an individual I learn better from experiences – either through mine or someone else’s. The mentoring scheme was a great opportunity to learn from professionals more experienced than myself. The sign up process was pretty straightforward. All we had to do was attend the briefing session after
Zainab Olatunji If you would be interested in becoming an alumni mentor, please contact service@alumni.rgu.ac.uk
In Conversation With… ‘In Conversation With’ is our free online discussion series where academic and industry experts share insights on a variety of chosen subjects to our global alumni community. Our latest webinars are available to watch and listen to online, use the links below to find out more.
Children in the Shadows: Safeguarding the Wellbeing of
Street Children in Lilongwe, Malawi
Donald Todd, Lecturer from the School of Nursing and Midwifery, discusses his research into the lives of street children in Malawi. He examines the impact orphanages have on these street children, and how their wellbeing can be safeguarded.
Excellent Adventure or Bogus Journey? The Business of
Critical Thinking
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Dr Ian Broadbent, MBA Director at Aberdeen Business School, will be discussing the importance of critical thinking – we live in an age of fake news, alternate facts and floods of data – as business leaders, how does the MBA philosophy help us to make sense of it all?
Climate Change on Coastal Communities in Vietnam
Drawn to the Dark:
This webinar by Dr Leslie Mabon, Reader at the School of Applied Social Studies, discusses the findings of research into the effects of climate change on coastal communities in northern Vietnam, providing understanding into how rising sea levels and changing weather patterns have impacted upon people living in the Xuan Thuy National Park in Nam Dinh Province.
This webinar explores the growth of dark tourism and its role in modern society. By examining the different forms of dark tourism both locally and in an international context, Dr Rachael Ironside, Senior Lecturer and Course Leader of the BA (Hons) Events Management course, considers the opportunities and challenges of this unique form of tourism for heritage sites and destinations.
Demystifying Fintech, Cryptocurrencies and the Future of Money
Time at Large
If you are bemused by blockchain or confused by cryptocurrency, then this is the webinar for you. This online discussion with MBA alumnus, entrepreneur and fintech expert Kris Lindahl will help answer everything you ever wanted to know about fintech – but were afraid to ask!
Contemplating the Role of Dark Tourism in Contemporary Society
In this webinar Salwa Fawzy, MSc Construction Law and Arbitration alumna, makes a comparative analysis between the ‘time at large’ principle under the common law and its relevant legal arguments under the civil law. The Egyptian Civil Law is used as an example of the civil law.
Professorial Lectures Our latest Professorial Lecture series features a selection of academics from various disciplines. This engaging lecture series covers a wide range of topics and research, encouraging intellectual thinking and discussion. Watch some of our latest lectures now. Self-management of long-term health conditions: Whose role is it anyway? Professor Kay Cooper explores self-management of long-term musculoskeletal conditions such as low back pain, now the world’s leading cause of disability.
Drawing on her own and others research in the field, her lecture considers issues including the role of “self� in self-management, the power of physical activity and what prevents many of us from using such a powerful tool for managing (and preventing) long-term health conditions.
Digital engagement and collaboration in built heritage Recent years have seen the rapid development of digital tools which can be used to record, present and document built heritage. Professor Richard Laing presents an accessible overview of visualisation and its use within public evaluation of open space, built heritage and urban design, and discusses how the methods signal ways to connect people and heritage, and support wider participation in discussion and debate.
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Diplomacy in Action A career in diplomacy conjures images of postings in far-flung locations and the opportunity to represent one’s country on the international stage. Dr Eugenio Matos, who studied a Masters in Public Administration (MPA) at RGU in 2006, has experienced this and more in his years representing the Dominican Republic to a worldwide audience.
“My father introduced me to diplomacy, to law, and to classical music. Fine arts and diplomacy are indisputably intertwined. Thanks to him I was trilingual at age 19; English, French and Spanish, and very good in Italian. These experiences convinced me then that serving and helping my country as a diplomat was the best choice.”
Eugenio’s first foray into diplomacy took place at the age of 18 when he was accepted as a professional violinist at the Dominican Republic National Symphony Orchestra. This gave him the opportunity to travel and play for foreign dignitaries, including at the Dominican Presidential Palace.
He has since played violin at diplomatic converts around the world including recitals for foreign diplomatic missions such as the US, Spanish, Italian, Azerbaijan and French embassies, as well as the European Union.
“From my early days in high school right into my final law studies in Santo Domingo, I was keen to develop international relations skills,” he said.
Eugenio also served his country in the Dominican Air Force, becoming one of the first Dominican skydivers to hold the Canadian Air Force Wing after taking part in joint NATO exercises in the early 1990s. He has logged more than 1000
Playing first violin at Buenos Aires Congress Orchestra
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Meeting Governor General Michaelle Jean at her residence in Ottawa, Canada free-fall jumps in his military career and holds the highest skydiving licence ratings issued in the Dominican Republic, the USA and Canada. He was presented with the Honor al Merito Militar, the highest honour in the Dominican Air Force, in 2017 in recognition of his contribution to the modernisation of Dominican military skydiving training. He started his international relations career in 1985 and has gone on to represent the country in an abound of Dominican diplomatic missions and international organisations overseas. “My role varies depending on the nation I am posted in,” he said. “In Buenos Aires, Montevideo, The Hague, and in Canada, I spent most of my time practicing ‘out of the box’ thinking, applying lessons I learnt at RGU.” “I look at creating new opportunities for my embassy at the lowest possible cost, or reducing the costs of ongoing work. Where possible I try to find ways of making relevant projects happen at no cost at all – this remains my favourite route. “During my day to day work I don’t necessarily follow set orders, but I look at opportunities to benefit the Ambassador’s role and, therefore, our country. Public diplomacy, creativity and innovation are my areas of expertise.”
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Eugenio has played a key role in supporting his government in various diplomatic missions,
particularly during his time at The Hague where he held the role of Deputy Chief of Mission at the Dominican embassy. While in the Netherlands he was accredited as Minister at the International Criminal Court, the International Court of Justice and the Organisation of Non-Proliferation of Chemical Weapons. He also worked alongside four foreign ambassadors to create Diplomat Magazine Netherlands, the first diplomatic publication in the country’s history. He met numerous influential figures during this time including Queen Beatrix and King WillemAlexander of the Netherlands, and US President Barack Obama. He also has an extensive academic background, holding a PhD in Law from Santo Domingo University, and becoming the first Dominican lawyer to hold a second degree in law from the University of Ottawa, Canada. He studied a Postgraduate in Diplomacy at the University of Malta in 2004, before completing his Masters in Public Administration at RGU in 2006. He has also completed numerous academic certificates and diplomas in a range of topics including languages, law and policy, and project management at institutes around the world. “My MPA from RGU has impacted my career very positively,” he said. “Immediately after I was accepted to the MPA programme I understood that everything I learnt would be applied to my diplomatic work.
“For example many Dominican embassies are in real need of innovation. The zero-based thinking taught at RGU was critical to my decision making process and, as a result, between 2009 and 2015 the Dominican Republic Embassy in The Hague achieved a record number of bilateral agreements and special events never seen in previous administrations. By 2012 the Dominican mission was considered ‘the most active Caribbean embassy in the Netherlands’ in terms of qualitative and quantitative results.” Eugenio feels he has learnt a lot about different cultures around the world as a result of his diplomatic career, as well as learning much about himself. “Adapting myself quickly to different customs is an extraordinary experience,” he said.
“Shifting, for example, from the Netherlands to Argentina is like travelling in a completely different direction. Although I have a Latin American background, my transfer from The Hague to Buenos Aires in 2015 was a memorable opportunity. “Regardless of the destination you are appointed to, diplomats face similar needs and duties. In the learning process, diplomatic agents have to possess certain special personal traits to succeed in such different locations, and implementing new projects overseas can vary significantly from country to country. “Years of experience in the career might not necessarily lead to professional success. You need individual resilience and you need to be able to adapt yourself quickly to your location and your surroundings, but the highlights of the career are endless.”
Playing violin for the President of the Senate of the Netherlands, Hon Ankie Broekers at The Hague
From Innovation to Hydration Andrew Davidson has seen his fair share of success since graduation, including winning a product award and launching his outdoor product design company AS D-Zine Ltd. Andrew graduated from RGU in 2015 with a degree in product design and went on to win the Sports Innovation Challenge for his innovative product M:X, which included a prize fund of a one year incubation package at University of Stirling Innovation Park.
“Winning the Sports Innovation Challenge at the Sports Business Innovation Awards was a great achievement and has opened up a lot of opportunities,” said Andrew. “It was just elation when it first happened and we first got told. It was an amazing night!” His product, M:X, is a revolutionary hydration device which can be fitted to an existing water bladder to instantly convert water into a formulated isotonic fluid at the flick of a switch. Water bladders have become popular amongst hikers and runners alike due to their
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Scottish Mountain Bike Awards
convenience and ease of use over traditional water bottles. However, they are not suitable for isotonic drinks due to the difficulty in cleaning and maintenance. Andrew’s hydration device M:X aims to solve this problem while remaining lightweight and practical out on the trail. M:X follows Andrew’s first product, the PolePod™, which was a versatile camera mount that can be fitted to any ski pole or walking pole to convert it instantly into a selfie stick. Andrew was also selected for the second cohort of Elevator UK’s Accelerator programme which offered him a 12-week entrepreneurial experience to test, research, develop, launch and refine his product to become pitch and investor ready, as well as receiving additional support from the Scottish Institute for Enterprise (SIE). Andrew is quick to recognise the impact this had on building his company.
“After graduating I was still developing this hydration system and also went onto cohort two of the Elevator Accelerator programme. That helped a lot with building the business from the ground up, and considering all the things you don’t really think of that you need to do,” explained Andrew. “I maybe went onto that programme slightly early because I was still at the very early prototype stage, but it gave me the confidence to continue developing the product and enter the Sports Innovation Challenge.”
Collaboration has played a key role in Andrew’s innovation journey working closely with Dr Stuart Galloway, a leading sport nutritionist based in University of Stirling, and with a European manufacturing company. “He’s helped develop the sports drink concentrates and test them in the lab,” said Andrew, “So it’s been really useful working with him. That was supported by our interface innovation voucher which essentially helps businesses collaborate with universities. It’s really worthwhile.” Andrew added “He had an input on salt levels and what sort of sugars should be included, so he’s been a really great help through the whole process.” When describing the best moments of his journey so far, Andrew recalled the ‘eureka’ moment when the M:X prototype first became fully operational: “I remember the day when I actually tested it in the kitchen, it had been a long time working with the powder based solution and not quite getting there. But the first time I saw that change happening and been able to switch between the two fluids I jumped around the kitchen like a lunatic. I just hope none of my neighbours heard me!”
A Meteoric Rise Leonora Brebner only graduated from Robert Gordon University with a degree in International Hospitality Management in 2017, but since then she has quickly ascended the ranks of hospitality management becoming Sales Manager and winning a prestigious industry award, all by the age of 24. Here, she shares her story. I studied International Hospitality Management at RGU, really due to its range of subjects and placement opportunities. We did so many things and all our projects were based on actual hotels in the city, so it was a super hands on course. We’d have cooking courses and we’d learn everything to do with food safety and visited so many different hotels, from independent hotels all the way to up to the big
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chains. It really set me up for a can do attitude. I’ve always been a go-getter but I think RGU really put the confidence in me. During my placement I spent a year in the US, working in exclusive country clubs in upstate New York and Key Largo which taught me a lot about the industry. It was after that I started working with the Marriott hotel chain where I was responsible for new business development and research. In my role as Sales Manager for the Sandman Signature Aberdeen hotel, I’m now responsible for new business development, corporate and leisure sales, market analysis and marketing. One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in my career is my age. So many people told me I
couldn’t be where I am at my age and there was no way I’d get a managerial role at just twenty four years old. But you know what, just turn a blind eye to it and just do it. That is my best advice. Just go out and get it because you are the future - it’s not someone who’s 80 years old that’s going to do it. You’re the new generation, so just go out and do it. What’s next for me? I always find that the most difficult question because five years ago I would never have said that I’d find myself as a sales manager for a brand new hotel in Aberdeen City Centre. I know I’ll be in hospitality, that’s a given because I can’t imagine myself in any other industry. What I’ll be doing though I can’t tell you. So watch this space!
If you’ve enjoyed reading our alumni stories and would like to share your professional journey with our alumni network, we would like to hear from you. Please contact our editorial team on communications@alumni.rgu.ac.uk
islandness Artist Vivian Ross-Smith graduated from Gray’s School of Art in 2013 with a degree in Painting. Originally from Shetland, she has been working with Newfoundland based artist and researcher Jane Walker. Together they have explored island life through their project islandness.
‘Traces II’ 2017. Preserved and handstitched Haddock skins and aluminium
The project aims to bring people and place together, forging new bonds among individuals, artists and communities beyond the framework of a single artwork or contemporary art exhibition. The first instalment of islandness took place in Newfoundland in August and September 2017, with the second part taking place in Shetland in October and November 2018. Each instalment comprised of a series of public art-making workshops, community suppers and art installations.
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‘Plastic and Wooden Net Needles’ 2017. Cast bronze and copper
Jane and I first ‘met’ in 2016 over Instagram, which resulted in Jane inviting me to be a participant in the research she was working on at the time. This led on to our development of islandness, and we continue to work together now despite the distance.
‘Winter Work’ 2018. Acrylic on Board
A key part of our work with this project has involved encouraging conversations around the idea of ‘centres’ and breaking down the opinion of remote or low population areas being ‘on the edge’. These feelings, along with many aspects of island life, are then integrated into islandness. I graduated from Gray’s School of Art in 2013, and was struck even at the interview stage, by the encouragement and the genuine interest the interviewing tutors had about my work, processes and interests. I was unsure which department I wanted to study in at first, toying mainly between textiles and painting, but the first time I walked into the painting studios I had a gut instinct that it was where I needed to focus my energy. The colour, smells and energy of the space really grabbed me and, luckily, the fantastic lecturers supported me as I combined my textile and materials interests into my painting process. My art practice is process-focused and material conscious. Whilst at Gray’s we were set a brief
which asked us to create work without paint – this was a complete turning point for my practice, I understood art in a completely different way. Rather than painting the island scenes I know so well – mostly views of the sea, fishermen’s hands and the fish they were catching – I could start using the actual materials I was observing. I began learning processes of preserving fish skins to use as a textile. I stitch the skins like a patchwork, allowing a focal point for a biproduct of an industry very important to my home of Shetland. This material focus led me to explore sculpture and form. With my interest in learning different skills and processes continuing to grow, I went on to learn how to cast metal. Several of my cast pieces became central to islandness, particularly three net needles which I cast in bronze and copper. This work was an exploration into making useable artwork and utilising the act of making as a way to initiate discussions of island life and connections to the sea.
Photo by May Graham
For many islanders the tool was familiar, and some were confident in using it, however the weight of the metal and change in expected material silently prompted the user to tell stories of their life as an islander. I am an artist and an islander.
It’s that everyday sharing of heritage and culture, where you don’t even realise you’re doing it, that I feel you get so much. I feel privileged to have the means to make work about the islands and communities I’m so fascinated by, and I feel that interest will never run dry.
Artists are privileged to have a platform in which to highlight areas of interest and share their own personal beliefs and views, and Islanders are privileged to have access to very interesting landscapes, place dynamics, and a particular mentality that seems to connect all islanders I’ve known.
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For me I’m interested in understanding a place through its people and its skills. Through that focus I have developed ‘Making Nights’ as part of our islandness programming where we ask people to gather with their own personal process skill or craft – knitting, stitching, carving, drawing, painting, or anything else – and simply make in the same space for a while. Every time we gather in this very casual way, those involved feel completely comfortable talking about their place, life and experiences.
‘Distance’ 2018. Acrylic and gloss medium on canvas
University Boat Race RGU took home the silver medal at the 24th Aberdeen Standard Investments Boat Race, losing out to the University of Aberdeen in all three races on the day.
It was the third clean sweep in the history of the race, with the University of Aberdeen taking the top spot in the Alumni and 2nd crew races, as well as the main title. They first crew completed the course in 7 minutes 53 seconds, just 15 seconds off the course record of 7 minutes 38 seconds. RGU followed behind, completing the course in 8 minutes 30 seconds. The first boat race between RGU and the University of Aberdeen took place in the 1990s. Aberdeen University Boat Club dominated in the early years of the competition, winning 10 consecutive titles before RGU clinched their first win in 2006. RGU has begun catching up in recent years, winning six of the seven main crew races between 2012 and 2018, as well as an incredible 15 of the 22 alumni crew races which have taken place since the alumni competition was added. The student rowers have been training since September, taking part in around 10 training sessions per week in preparation for the final 3,500m race.
The Alumni Boat Race, which took place ahead of the main event, saw the mixed alumni teams race a 3,000m course. The RGU crew finished five lengths behind the University of Aberdeen crew, who completed the course in 8 minutes 30 seconds. Claire Shaw, Head of Alumni at RGU, said: “It’s great seeing the alumni crews out on the water and still so fiercely competitive. “A huge congratulations to the University of Aberdeen alumni crew – watch out for our alumni rowers next year though!” The crews from RGU and University of Aberdeen collaborated in 2012 to form University Rowing Aberdeen – a partnership which allows rowers from both universities to share resources, equipment, coaching and funding. Lewis McCue was appointed as the first full-time coach in 2018. “All the rowers have worked incredibly hard training throughout the year, and they all performed incredibly well on race day,” he said. “The crews training together in a joint programme has made the rivalry even more passionate in recent years. The rowers know their competitors, they know how the others race, and they’re even more determined to win.”
Alumni Updates Congratulations from the RGU community to the following alumni:
Cameron Bowden (BSc Construction Design & Management, 2012) from Brew Toon and Claire Rennie (MSc Marketing, 2006) from Summerhouse Drinks who won awards at the North East Scotland Food & Drink Awards.
Mostafa Hanafy (MSc Project Management, 2016) who was shortlisted for the Social Impact Award at the British Council Alumni Awards in Egypt. He also received the Chevening Social Media Ambassador Award.
Leonora Brebner (BA International Hospitality Management, 2017) who was awarded the Leadership Scholarship at the Hospitality In Training Scotland Talent Conference.
Dr Jenna Ross (MBA, 2018) who was names Student of the Year at the Chartered Management Institute HE Conference & Awards. Business co-founders Darryll (MSc International Business, 2016) and Luke Morrow (BSc Architectural Technology, 2013) who received £150,000 in seed fund investment to support their business, Udrafter. Gray’s alumna Samantha Cheevers (BA Painting, 2018) who was awarded the Glenfiddich Residency Award, worth £10,000, at the Royal Scottish Academy New Contemporaries Awards. 28
If you have a personal or professional achievement you would like to share please contact us on communications@alumni.rgu. ac.uk to let us know, or tag us on social media.
Keep in touch: Kwan Pang (BSc Mathematical Science with Computing, 1989) is looking to reconnect with old classmates from RGIT. If you would like to get in contact please email service@alumni.rgu.ac.uk and we will pass on your details.
Meet our International Staff Megha Malhorta has recently begun working with RGU as our In Country Manager based in India. We found out more from Megha about her new role.
I will be working with the Student Recruitment and Admissions team to help grow the profile of RGU in India. In the day-to-day of this job I will meet with education agencies, prospective students, their parents and influencers, on behalf of RGU to increase awareness, understanding and interest for the University. These activities will be pan-India, as we try to increase engagement in RGU across the country. I feel absolutely thrilled and excited to be working with RGU. I see this as an opportunity to innovate and achieve my aspirations to help increase the number of people aware of RGU in India. This will help contribute both to RGU as an institution, and also to many here in India. We at RGU understand the importance of our alumni community, and value their contribution. I am delighted to be associated with this community and to help further cultivate the spirit of ongoing loyalty between RGU and our many alumni. I am also very excited about being a conduit of the University and the Alumni Office, to help with things like regional alumni events and get-togethers. We appreciate that every alumnus has experienced being a student here, and has further progressed to become a unique, special and valued graduate, and we have opportunities for alumni to become involved in supporting our work in India. For example we would be delighted if alumni would consider volunteering their time to join me in student recruitment activities across India to help share their first-hand experiences of RGU, either by attending events, making phone calls to prospective students, or meeting with parents to provide reassurances about the decision to study at RGU.
I would also like to invite alumni to join me at presentations for local educational institutions, schools and colleges to share more about how you feel RGU helped enhance your career prospects, or made a difference to your professional and personal life. There are also many other ways to get involved including: sharing your successes with us in the form of testimonials, signing up to our career mentoring programme, or even offering internships, work shadowing or placements through your company or organisation. I look forward to working with our alumni across India and, if you would like any more information about our plans or you would like to get involved, I invite you to contact me for more information. If you would be interested in learning more about our work in India, please contact Megha by email.
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