RGU has, literally, staff from the furtherest most points of the UK, from Shetland (see Sophie Kelman’s forthcoming interview) down to Cornwall. While we do stress that Aberdeen has a generally pleasant climate, we also understand that if you have come from Cornwall you might find it a bit colder than you are used to. However, as Cerys’ interview explains, there are lots of other things that more than make up for this!
Name: Cerys Russell
Job Title: Lecturer
Department: School of Nursing and Midwifery
What attracted you to come to work at RGU?
I have always enjoyed teaching. At uni I was a peer mentor and used to assist with the clinical skills lab for the students in first and second year. Soon after registration I started mentoring and soon after that I started working with the simulation team. RGU attracted me because of its location and that the school supports part time lecturers. Being able to work part time clinical and education allows me to learn new skills in academia whilst maintaining clinical credibility in practice. This is flexible and accommodating and ensures that the university have current lecturers.
Describe working at RGU in three words.
Collaborative,
innovative,
supportive.
Tell us something that has surprised you about working at RGU.
I am very newly appointed and have been surprised by the warm welcome to the school. I have previously worked in the NHS and the military. The induction here has been comprehensive and I have been given time to meet my colleagues. I also very much appreciated the ‘buddy’ system whereby a new staff member is assigned an experienced lecturer to bounce questions off.
Describe living in North East of Scotland in three words. (Or if you are not from the local area, what are the biggest differences between where you previously lived and NE Scotland?)
I am from Cornwall so living and working in Aberdeen is very different (COLD).
What are your favourite leisure/non-work activities and how well are they catered for in and around Aberdeen?
Anything outdoors. I enjoy hiking and climbing so love how close we are to Braemar and the Cairngorms.
What is your favourite place to go out for a meal in the North East and why?
At the time of writing, I’ve not eaten out in Aberdeen yet – recommendations welcome!
What would you say to anyone who is contemplating a move to RGU to persuade them it’s the right career move?
You don’t know until you try it! If you like teaching then this university will give you the skills you need to become a competent lecturer.