Craig Thomson

Craig Thomson (19) from Alloa completed a HND Hospitality Management in 2025 and won the Forth Valley College Student of the Year Award at the same year’s graduation ceremony.

However, he was unable to accept the award – or graduate – in person in October 2025 even though he wanted to, as he was at that point staring an exciting work placement at Meat Market a famous steak-house restaurant in Tampa, Florida, USA! 

He was delighted to record a special message for the audience at the graduation ceremony, and he spent a fantastic 10 months working in America and gaining a wealth of experience thanks to the CIEE international internship organisation https://www.ciee.org/ .

Since returning earlier this summer (2026) he has began working in the exclusive Gleneagles Resort in Perthshire and hopes to move on to study at university in the future. He was delighted to have a chat on camera about his experiences – click here to find out more.

How did you feel about winning the 2025 Graduation award and what does it mean to you?:

I felt totally over the moon for even being nominated for the Student of the Year award. By being selected for these types of awards it really motivates me to try better in my career and to keep striving forward. 
 
Why did you choose to study at FVC?:

I chose to study at Forth Valley College after doing my part time course here during high school. This was because after leaving high school it offered a very supportive environment which made learning more personal and constructive.

What about the facilities and the lecturers?:

The lecturers I had during my time at Forth Valley College have been some of the best mentors I could have asked for. 
 
How has your experience of studying at the college benefited you?:

By studying at the College it has given me a better perspective of the Hospitality Industry and has been a good induction to my career. 
 
How will FVC helped you move on to the next step in your career?:

Forth Valley College has already helped me move into the next steps of my career by introducing me to CIEE, which is a company who specialises in USA internships.
 
Why would you recommend the College/your course to other people interested in your area/industry/sector?:

I would introduce the course to other people in my industry as the knowledge gained from carrying out the course, includes things some companies don’t mention as much as they should be. Having the good general knowledge when it comes to the area you’re working in is some of the best ways to improve.
 
What has been the best bit for you?:

The best part about the whole experience is probably the amount of exploring and opportunities I have done with the College, from cruise ship tours to a three day learning Hit Scholarship to Switzerland. Another example is the amount of competitions I have been offered to enter, such as the Nespresso afternoon tea competition and the ScotHot napkin folding competition. 
 
Why would you recommend potential students to Choose College?:

I would recommend this Forth Valley College as it has always gone leaps and bounds for the wellbeing of the students. It engages with students properly and acknowledges all students who have a passion for what they want to do.