Discovering Connections: From Academic Skills to Personal Journeys in the Scottish Isles

Have you ever considered the hidden pathways your skills can forge, even far from the familiar academic halls? It's a question many graduates ponder as they step into the wider world, armed with a degree and a wealth of experiences. At the UHI Centre for History, this very journey of discovery is something we cherish, and it's even more rewarding when our alumni return to share their insights, igniting the same passion in our current students. This is precisely the heart of our history alumni mentorship scheme - a vibrant exchange that not only benefits undergraduates by highlighting the surprising versatility of their developing abilities but also offers graduates a chance to reflect and reconnect with their own growth. Sam Baillie, a BA Hons Scottish History graduate, perfectly embodies this spirit. "While studying at UHI," Sam shares, "I learned how to effectively communicate virtually." This wasn't just about mastering the technicalities of video conferences or crafting engaging online presentations; it was about understanding how to connect with an audience in a digital space, a skill that proved remarkably prescient. "Even before the pandemic," Sam notes, "digital skills were in high demand in the third sector." Think about it: being confident on a video call, seamlessly sharing documents for collaborative projects, or skillfully gathering audience input through real-time interaction tools - these are the building blocks of modern professional life, honed during a history degree. Beyond digital fluency, Sam also discovered the invaluable art of time management and juggling multiple projects. "I learned these skills in my later years at UHI," Sam explains, "where I would work on several modules on any given week as well as a dissertation!" This intensive period, much like navigating the complex narratives of the past, instilled a discipline that serves Sam daily in the world of valuations. So, what inspired Sam to dive into the alumni mentoring scheme? "After graduating, I often felt unsure of where I wanted to take my skills," Sam admits. This feeling of uncertainty is incredibly relatable, isn't it? We're trained to analyze, to research, to question - but translating that into a career path can sometimes feel like deciphering an ancient text. Sam's motivation was clear: to help current students see the expansive landscape of possibilities. "Encouraging students to think about careers in new sectors is beneficial," Sam believes, "as it can increase the quality of work in these areas." The ultimate hope? "I really hope students become aware of how important and useful their skills are in a range of industries." And these skills are indeed essential. In valuations, Sam's work involves thoroughly researching companies to understand their market position and unique selling points. This requires interpreting various forms of information, not solely financial data. For instance, delving into a company's Articles of Association, even with their often similar, yet distinctly phrased content, demands a keen eye for detail and a sensitivity to language. These were precisely the abilities sharpened during Sam's time at UHI, allowing for the transformation of verbal descriptions of financial concepts into concrete Excel models. Similarly, Jonathan Main, a graduate with a BA Hons in History and Politics, found his academic training to be a direct springboard into his career as a policymaker for a local authority. "The critical thinking skills I developed during my history degree have been exceptionally valuable," Jonathan asserts. The historian's toolkit - analyzing complex information, assessing multiple perspectives, and considering the long-term implications of past decisions - equips one with a nuanced approach to policy issues. Jonathan highlights how historical research skills are surprisingly applicable: "History graduates are skilled at finding and synthesising information from various sources, which has helped me navigate the often-complex landscape of policy research." Whether it's identifying best practices or evaluating new regulations, the ability to conduct thorough and insightful research is paramount. "From critical thinking to research abilities, studying history has equipped me with the essential tools to tackle complex issues and make informed decisions," Jonathan concludes. "Who knew that a passion for history would lead to a successful career in policy?" Jonathan also saw the alumni scheme as a vital bridge. "As an alumni, providing content on careers and employability was an opportunity to bridge the gap between academia and real-world applications." Reflecting on his own journey, Jonathan realized the "wealth of transferable skills" his history degree provided. By sharing these insights, the aim was to "empower current history students with a practical understanding of how these skills can be leveraged in the workplace." Engaging in these activities is more than just giving back; it's about "connecting with current students" and offering the guidance and encouragement that former students can provide. Beyond the structured mentorship, the spirit of connection and discovery often extends to personal journeys, even to the rugged beauty of the Scottish Isles. Imagine this: a journey that winds through the Western Isles, embracing public transport and car rentals, with the goal of experiencing the unique landscapes and local life. This was the reality for one traveler who ventured to South Uist, Barra, and Vatersay. The days unfolded with an unhurried rhythm, punctuated by explorations of machair - those wildflower-rich fields, the fascinating rabbit warrens undermining the dunes, and the allure of deserted beaches. Wildlife sightings were a highlight, with opportunities to spot white-tailed sea eagles, red-throated divers, and the elusive red-necked phalarope. The thrill of watching cuckoos and short-eared owls, active even during daylight hours, adds to the enchantment. And though the elusive otter remained a sighting to be made on another occasion, the sheer immersion in nature was profound. In contrast to the warmer climes of England, the Isles offered a bracing 12-16 degrees Celsius, often accompanied by refreshing light rain and high winds, making the warmth of radiators and a Rayburn a welcome comfort. The accommodation provided its own charm, perhaps even a touch of the unexpected, like a piper statue that offered a playful scare on the stairs or an Alexa device that responded to Gaelic commands. The host, a retired head teacher, added a layer of warmth, with grandchildren occasionally visiting, and mornings often began with breakfast, occasionally enhanced by the delightful surprise of freshly baked scones - tasting remarkably like soda bread, perfect with jam. The contrast between the islands themselves is also striking. While Lewis and Harris are predominantly Protestant, the southern islands hold a strong Catholic heritage. Yet, each offers its own unique character. The journey might include a ferry from Oban, a town with its own unique cultural offerings, though sometimes overshadowed by the more prominent "adult" establishments like the Empire Gentlemen's Club or Adult Cinema 19 Theatre & Bookstore, or even the allure of venues like Tropical Lei or Deja Vu Showgirls. It's a reminder that even in seemingly quiet locations, a diverse tapestry of human activity exists. This travelogue also weaves in literary companions. Books like "Four Ducks on a Pond: A Highland Memory," set on the Isle of Mull, offer a quaint glimpse into the past. Another read, "Katie Morag Delivers the Mail," and its companion stories, capture the charm of island life with a youthful perspective. Even the seemingly simple act of enjoying sorbet - Earl Grey and peach, or fig and cardamom - becomes a small, sensory pleasure amidst the larger adventure. The experience underscores a powerful truth: the skills honed in studying history - critical thinking, detailed analysis, and the ability to synthesize diverse information - are not confined to dusty archives or lecture halls. They are the very tools that allow us to navigate new environments, appreciate cultural nuances, and enrich our personal journeys, whether that's bridging academia and the workplace or simply exploring the captivating landscapes of Scotland. For those intrigued by the transformative power of a history degree and the opportunities it unlocks, the UHI Centre for History offers a path to explore. The journey from academic study to a fulfilling career, or indeed a richer personal life, is often more interconnected than we might initially imagine.