Alvin Sets His Sights On Studying Medicine After Outstanding SQA Results

Alvin joined Albyn in 2016 and has since grown into a dedicated, focused and ambitious learner, consistently demonstrating a strong work ethic and genuine passion for the sciences.

We hear from Alvin about his feelings in the lead up to getting his results, and how results day unfolded for him…

How did you feel about your exams in the lead up to today? 
“I was a little bit stressed overall but I thought I was going to do ok. I was waiting on the grades to see if I would get into the universities that I want to but beyond that I wasn’t too stressed, quietly confident I guess.”

Is there one grade you’re especially proud of, and why? 
“I’m most proud of my maths grade, being an Advanced Higher I wasn’t sure how I would do but I did really well which I didn’t expect.”

What helped you get through your exams?
“Studying with my friends really helped me a lot and reassured me in my abilities. I think when I study by myself I can overthink things so being with your friends puts things into perspective. I have a network of people who are very supportive and my family and friends really helped me through.”

What advice would you give to next year’s pupils?
“Ask your friends to study with you, even if they are not doing the same subjects as you. And don’t let stress get to you, it is very easy for that kind of thing to seep into your mind. It doesn’t have to be awful, there are ways you can make things easier on yourself, give yourself a bit more grace because ultimately it is an evaluation of your entire school year and hopefully you’ll get the results you want. And even if you don’t that’s ok, there are ways and other paths you can take to get to where you want to go.”

Alvin’s exceptional exam results mark an important milestone on his journey toward a career in medicine. He now sets his sights on applying to studying Medicine at the University of Aberdeen following his final year at Albyn…

“I’m staying on for S6 and will be taking four Advanced Highers; Biology, Chemistry, Mechanics and English, and beyond that I’m hoping to do medicine. The University of Aberdeen is the goal as one of the top universities for medicine but I’ll apply for a variety of different universities and I’ll see where I can go.”

And how will Alvin be celebrating his impressive results?

“Me and my family are going to Nandos!”