James Robertson, student of the year

Moray College UHI student of year and overall University of the Highlands student of the year

 

James Robertson from Forres recently completed a BSc in computing. He was selected for the award for exceptional personal and academic achievement by Moray College UHI and was also chosen as the UHI student of the year.

The father of two was diagnosed with Friedrich’s Ataxia and Dystonia, rare neurological conditions which cause muscle weakening, spasms and speech problems, when he was 30. The disorders mean that James uses a motorised wheelchair, tires easily and has difficulty with speaking, writing and typing.

Despite such challenges, James decided to undertake an HNC in computing on a part time basis at Moray College UHI in 2007. Since then, he has worked hard to attain excellent academic results and recently completed his BSc computing, which he will be awarded with distinction. He was also named as the University of the Highlands and Islands’ first ever Fujitsu IT Student of the Year in July.

Dr Ian Barnes, who is also a lecturer on and programme leader for the university’s BSc (Hons) computing degree, explained: “Throughout his time at Moray College UHI, Jim has consistently produced work of the highest standard, often well beyond what was required. He will be awarded his degree “with distinction”, which means he finished with an A average, an outstanding achievement for any student.”

Speaking about his award, Jim said: “I am extremely proud and delighted to have been selected for the Moray College UHI Student of the Year award. My thanks go to the staff in the computing department for all their hard work, support and belief and to Dr Ian Barnes for nominating me, the dean and the acting principal for their kind words of support and my family for their ongoing encouragement and moral support.”

 

Picture: James Robertson, BSc Computing, Moray College UHI