Alastair Buchanan

A student who has worked hard to overcome the challenges associated with dyslexia has been named as West Highland College UHI Student of Year 2012.

Alastair, from Castle Douglas in Dumfries and Galloway, is about to enter his final year of an honours degree in adventure tourism management.

He was nominated for overcoming the challenges associated with dyslexia as well as demonstrating strong academic skills.   Tutors have praised his determination to overcome the difficulties he faces, which they say is evident in the steady improvement of his work.

Speaking about his award Alastair said: “I have found the adventure tourism management degree both interesting and challenging. The journey since being diagnosed with dyslexia has enabled me to reach my full potential and this could not have been achieved without the commitment and dedication of the tutors on my course. I never saw myself getting this far at university so winning this award was both a surprise and a boost to my confidence.”