School Careers Adviser proves best counsel for talented teen
After ill health led to time off school, Largs teen Elita Smith thought her dream career in law was lost, until a careers adviser took on her case.
Elita contracted long-COVID while in S5 of Largs Academy, missing half of her school year.
The time away affected the 17 year old’s Higher grades which, although impressive under the circumstances, made Elita worry that she wouldn’t be able to study law.
Elita explained: “Until I started S5 I had excellent attendance at school but getting COVID changed everything. I was tired all the time and felt terrible.”
When Elita returned to classes she contacted Paul Aitken, the school Careers Adviser for help.
Paul is one of over a thousand Skills Development Scotland Careers Advisers providing expert career information, advice and guidance in all state schools and in SDS centres and community spaces across Scotland.
Elita said: “I was stressed about creating my personal statement for university applications and I hoped Paul could help me with that.”
Then, when Elita received her Higher results Paul’s support in S6 was crucial to getting her back on track.
Making connections
Paul explained: “Elita was disappointed with her results and wanted to know if she could still pursue her ambition to study law.
“She was feeling dejected, uncertain about her future and scared that she would be disappointed with what she would find once she started to research the situation.
“So, initially my support was about looking into the opportunities available with Elita and showing her that she still had options.”
Paul investigated university entry requirements, contacting some for further information.
To help broaden her options, Paul also supported Elita at an open day at Ayrshire College, helping her to ask questions and find out more about the range of courses available.
Elita said: “After looking at all the information Paul was able to show me, I decided that I would prefer to apply for Strathclyde University’s law course. I was really relieved that there was still the chance to get a law degree.”
To help with her application, Paul used his connections to land Elita some valuable work experience at Greenock Sherrif Court.
Elita said: “I spent a brilliant day at the court shadowing the Sheriff. I was able to look at current cases and get familiar with what happens in a courtroom. It was fascinating and was a really important part of my personal statement on my university application.”
Paul also gave Elita support to prepare for her university interview and she successfully gained a conditional place.
Person centred support
With great anticipation for her SQA results, Paul was one of the first people Elita called when she found out she achieved the grades she needed to start her future career.
Elita said: “I was over the moon when I got my results. I was on holiday when I found out I got the grades I needed to get into university and messaged Paul and my guidance teacher straight away.”
Elita started her degree course in September and is excited for the future. She said: “I know my studying is going to be challenging but I’m ready for it. The help I got from Paul makes me feel more confident within myself too.
“I’ve always wanted to study law and interested in social justice. Personally, I want to make a difference through the work I do.”
Paul said: “Elita achieved a lot in her journey through the last year of school, coming from a place where she tended to compare herself to others. She is a capable individual, good communicator, bubbly and friendly and I saw her approach everything in such a positive way.”
Thinking about the support she received from Paul, Elita said: “Paul went above and beyond for me and was a massive help. He took the time to sit and listen and, even if I just needed a chat, he was there.”
Pupils can speak to their SDS careers adviser at school and, for careers support at any age, visit myworldofwork.co.uk or call 0800 917 8000 to find out about support in your area.