Family celebration for dad and daughters at Digital Life

A proud dad graduating from Teesside University was also able to witness his two daughters celebrate their own academic achievements.

Donald McPherson, from Catterick Garrison, who graduated from the PgDip Specialist Community Public Health Nursing (Health Visiting), joined his daughters Kayleigh and Shona as they both also graduated.

Kayleigh graduated from the BA (Hons) Graphic Design and Illustration, while Shona graduated from the BA (Hons) Film and Television Production.

They were among graduates celebrating at the first ever ceremonies to take place in the University’s new state-of-the-art £42m Digital Life building on campus.

Donald said: “I decided to do this course as I was working as a public health nurse in the community and worked alongside the health visiting service and heard only positive things from others who had studied at Teesside. I did my research about Teesside and listened to people who had studied there, and it was the closest to my current location.

“My degree was at university and work placement, so I enjoyed both parts of the learning, by learning skills at university and then putting these skills into practice whilst on placement.”

Kayleigh said: “I love art, and growing up, my parents told me to do something I love, which led me to pursue a career in illustration. When looking for a course, I explored a lot of universities, but I loved everything Teesside had to offer.

“I loved the lecturers and the support that came with the course. We were allowed to explore and create independently whilst still being able to communicate and be steered in the right direction. I want to become an illustrator, and I hope one day to set up my own business. I’ve put this on hold after recently having a baby, but I’m excited to continue this path in future.”

Shona said: “I studied media in secondary school and am interested in film and television. I saw completing the degree as a good way into working in the industry.

“Both my parents attended Teesside and told us how good the University was for studying. The course offered by Teesside University suited me best. I know I want to work within the media and television. The degree has helped me on my career path, as the course brought in connections and allowed us to get to know people from the industry.

Donald added: “I enjoyed my time in the skills lab as a student nurse - putting everything into practice from what you have been taught in hospitals.

“During my time as I student, I can honestly say the library is one of the best I have seen and to see how it has changed since 2016. The service you get from the employees who work there, to the vast array of books, is totally amazing.”

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