GCU student picks up SQA Star Award for volunteering

A third-year student who volunteers in his local community as a sports coach was honoured at the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) Star Awards 2017.

James O’Neill received the College Candidate of the Year trophy at the event held at the Assembly Rooms in Edinburgh on November 3.

James was an HND student at Ayrshire College and articulated directly into 3^rd year in September, studying BA (Hons) International Sports Management at GCU.

Whilst studying at Ayrshire College, James gave over 5,000 hours of his own time to his local community. He used his coaching skills to create access to grassroots sport in North Ayrshire.

James said: "I felt very fortunate to have been nominated for the award and particularly grateful to have received it, I feel this will open a lot of doors for me.

"I feel very lucky and grateful to be studying at GCU as the quality of teaching and facilities are superb. I am really enjoying my time here; the lecturers I have are really nice and supportive and have been since I started.

 "I have found the transition challenging which I always expected but very manageable with the support I have been getting from the lecturers in all my modules and the learning support staff. I hope to pass this year and come back to complete my honours degree the following year."