UHI Student of the Year 2017 Hannah McDiarmid
A DETERMINED Skye student has been named University of the Highlands and Islands’ Student of the Year 2017 despite having to attend classes via video link from her hospital bed. Graduate Hannah McDiarmid from Torvaig, Skye, who was also named Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI Student of the Year, has been recognised for her unstinting dedication and determination in her studies.
Hannah graduated with a BA (Hons) Gaelic Language and Culture while managing cystic fibrosis, a chronic, life-limiting condition which affects the lungs and the digestive systems. Speaking about her award, Hannah said: ‘I chose to study Gaelic because I have an interest in languages and, after learning a bit in school, I wanted to carry on and learn more about the culture as well. It’s an honour to receive this award, especially as I wasn’t brought up speaking Gaelic and I will always be thankful to everyone at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI, at home and from the cystic fibrosis team for their kind support and encouragement.’ Enrolled as a distance-learning student with Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI, she has now successfully completed her degree from her home in Torvaig.