Former Forth Valley Student Association President Alan Buchan has celebrated completing his integrated degree at the University of Stirling.
Alan, who started his BA Honours Heritage and Tourism at Forth Valley College in 2014 took a sabbatical after his second year to take on the full-time role of President to work for the betterment of his fellow students at Forth Valley College.
He served two years in the role, before continuing his studies on the course, which sees students do their first two years at FVC – completing an HND – then progressing on to the University of Stirling to finish their qualifications.
During his tenure Alan oversaw the progression of the SA, helping to develop clubs and societies around the College, and collaborating with FVC staff to make it easier for students to shape the work of the College.
Alan also put his musical skills to good use when he graduated recently by playing the bagpipes for a recent graduation video at the University of Stirling.
The BA Heritage and Tourism is one of nine integrated degrees in partnership with three universities - Stirling, Herriot Watt and Strathclyde - currently on offer at FVC.
Alan, said: “The Heritage and Tourism degree has been life changing for me. For me coming into study as a mature student, the first two years in a college environment were a great way to get back into education in a supportive environment, and more than prepared me for third and fourth years at university. I would recommend the partnership degrees to anyone.
“Getting involved with the Student Association was definitely the highlight, but within the course it would be our second year field trip to Orkney, where we got to experience at first-hand, unique heritage sites seeing how our learning is applied in a real world setting.”
Colin McGeoch, Curriculum Manager in FVC’s Department of Creative Industries, said: “Well done to Alan for completing his BA Hons Heritage and Tourism course. He has been a credit to both Forth Valley College and the University and he also managed to take a sabbatical in the middle of his qualification to take on the full-time position of Student Association President and work passionately for the benefit of his fellow students.
“Our university partnership programme continues to go from strength to strength and Alan has been a true ambassador of this and for the welfare of students. We are very proud of his achievements and so should he.”
Anyone looking to find out more about the FVC’s Integrated Degree Programmes should visit https://www.forthvalley.ac.uk/ways-to-study/degrees/ or call 01324 403000.
