Keeping it in the Family

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The name seemed familiar. It wasn’t unusual to have two people with the same surname in the same department, but this one was ringing bells. Not only did Debbie and Emily have identical surnames, but they had similar mannerisms and the same passion for Science. 

While it could just have been a coincidence, staff at West College Scotland were soon to find out that Debbie and Emily are, in fact, mother and daughter. 

Emily joined us in 2024 and, after persuading her mum that college would be ideal for her, Debbie started in 2025. While Emily studied Applied Science, Debbie opted for our Pharmacy course, both of which sit within the Science department. Their journeys differ in terms of subject and story, yet both reflect a commitment to growth, curiosity, and building strong foundations for a future they are passionate about.

đź“šDebbie: Rediscovering Purpose Through Education

Debbie’s decision to return to education came from a place many adults recognise: the feeling of being stuck in a job with little to no progression. Debbie knew that something had to change and took the brave leap to apply for Pharmacy, as this choice offered long-term opportunities and aligned with her skillset and her interests. 

Debbie describes her course as “interesting, challenging and worthwhile”, and explains how she was hesitant at first, due to her age, but is really glad to have taken a leap of faith. 

 
It’s not always easy, but the lecturers are really supportive and always on hand to help.

Debbie’s goal is clear: to complete her course, gain further qualifications, and build a career in a pharmacy setting. For Debbie, enrolling for college wasn’t just about learning – it was about reclaiming direction and investing in a future which not only offers stability, but is rewarding too.

🔬 Emily: Building on a Passion for Science

Emily’s entry into college came after finishing secondary school, when she joined West College Scotland on our NC Science course. After completing her NC, Emily realised how much she enjoyed the practical side of the subject, and was fascinated to learn how scientific principles apply to everyday life. Progressing to HNC felt like the natural next step, allowing Emily to deepen her knowledge, strengthen her skills, and keep her options open for both further study and future employment in a science-related field.

Emily uses the words “demanding, engaging and valuable” to sum up her course. Like her Mum, Emily encourages anyone considering college to take the leap, emphasising the rewarding nature of the work and the support offered by lecturers.

Next year, Emily hopes to continue on to an HND in Biological Sciences, building even further on the foundation she has already created.

👩‍👧 One Shared Experience, Two Distinct Journeys

Although Debbie and Emily are studying different subjects, their experiences echo one another in meaningful ways:

Both chose their courses because they genuinely enjoy the subject matter.
Both describe the work as challenging but rewarding.
Both highlight the encouragement and support they receive from staff.
Both see education as a pathway to a better future.

Studying at the same campus at the same time has given Debbie and Emily a unique bond—one built on mutual encouragement, shared routines, and the understanding that personal growth can happen at any stage of life.

While Debbie is proving that it’s never too late for new beginnings, Emily is showing what’s possible when you build on your passions early. Together, they are a reminder that learning is a lifelong journey, and sometimes the best motivation comes from the person sitting right beside you.

We wish Debbie and Emily the best of luck in their studies, and can’t wait to see where life after college takes them!

If you would like to follow a similar path to Debbie and Emily, take the first step and apply for one of our Science courses now.