About me
Hobbies & Interests
Games
Gamer
I spend a lot of time gaming; I especially enjoy co-op and problem-solving games.
At the moment, my go-to game is Minecraft, where imagination rules!
(Image: one of my created worlds)
PC
PC Builder
I am interested not only in the software but also in the hardware. I have built several PCs and enjoy the flexibility and creativity that comes with personalisation and customisation.
Lego
Lego Builder
Growing up in a family of Lego and Star Wars enthusiasts, I've been building Lego since I was very young. Over the years, I've amassed quite a collection, including my 7,500 piece UCS Millennium Falcon, pictured here.
More recently, I've ventured into model shipbuilding after receiving a wooden kit for Christmas, which tested both my patience and skills!
Chess
Chess player
I started playing chess in primary school and went on to compete in several competitions. I still play regularly today.
I enjoy chess because every game presents a new set of problems to solve. I find it rewarding to work through these problems, develop solutions and adapt my thinking as the game progresses.
RMAS
Renaissance Martial Arts Society
Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) is the study and practice of European martial arts from the 14th to 20th centuries, using weapons such as the longsword, broadsword & targe, and dagger.
Like many first-year students at a freshers fair, I was looking for ways to make the most of my university experience. Five years on, I am still enjoying it.
 RMAS |
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 HEMA jacket |
 Image by Jonathan Kemper |
 HEMA Sword and Kit |
 Massed Band of the Sea Cadets at Edinburgh Castle |
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 Catamaran |
 The National Youth Brass Bands of Scotland |
 TS Roylist |
 Sailing |
 Music |
Experiences that helped me develop confidence, leadership & teamwork
Sailing
Assistant Sailing Instructor
During the summer months, I work as an assistant sailing instructor, teaching children and young people of varying ages, abilities and experience levels. I help students build confidence and develop their sailing skills.
Growing up in a remote part of Scotland, it might seem like there wouldn't be much to do - but that wasn't my experience. At the age of 10, I joined the Sea Cadets and over the 6 years I spent there, I had the opportunity to sail around the UK aboard TS Royalist, a 34 metre training brig and TS John Jerwood, a 24 metre power vessel.
I was also a member of the Massed Bands of the Sea Cadets, which allowed me to perform at several prestigious events, including the naming ceremony of HMS Prince of Wales, the Trafalgar Parade at Horseguard Parade, and the National Band Competition at the Tower of London.
Music
Musician
When I was about 6, my parents took me to a local brass band concert. I remember being completely captivated by someone playing what looked, to me, like a very funny instrument. I turned to my dad and said, "I want to play that". Around the same time, I saw another instrument in a music shop window and told my mum the same thing. Today I am proficient in both the trombone and the violin. I've performed in numerous concerts and competitions over the years, and I continue to play with Campbeltown Brass and Arbroath & Carnoustie Band.