That's not a quote I agree with entirely, but I certainly hope it applies to my university degree! My exam on Wednesday signalled the end of a fantastic four years of student life, and it's only just starting to sink in that I won't be tackling the infamous hill on Montrose St on the way to lectures any time soon. It's been said over the last couple of weeks that given my study beard and unkempt curls I had finally achieved the 'student look'-at least I have definitely achieved something with my four-year education!

Honours year has been as challenging as expected, though it was enjoyable to know you've been really pushed. As well as 6 exams we've been assessed over 5 presentations and coursework totalling an approximate 66,500 accumulated word-count, including a 27,000 word dissertation. As much as I've enjoyed the challenges of being a student, you get to the point where you're ready to face the next stage, which for me will be as a trainee public sector auditor for Grant Thornton in Glasgow. I'm anticipating it to be a tougher three years than even the last one, with chartered studies alongside the normal working week, but I'm looking forward to starting what will undoubtedly be a great learning opportunity.

With that starting in August I've got a couple of months to chill out and prepare for what's ahead. My plans aren't quite as exciting as those of Graeme in the previous post, though at least I'm safe in the knowledge that the ash cloud shouldn't affect my travelling arrangements to Rockness or back to Campbeltown! I'll be heading home to work for a couple of months, hoping to re-ignite my pub-league football career and make the most of a plentiful supply of home-baking. The latter may seriously hamper my progress in the former, however, so something's going to have to give!

It seems insane to think that almost a year has passed since we went to Boston. This time last year I was starting to get excited about what was ahead, and I can safely say it surpassed all expectations. The two months over there were sensational, it's been great to be a part of things since I came back, and I've met a fantastic group of people. The experience has definitely had an impact both on my final year at uni and in getting a graduate job. I'm sure those preparing to head off in the next month or so realise what a great opportunity they have in front of them, and I'm looking forward to meeting them all in a few weeks. 

Hopefully catch up with many of the alumni on Tuesday, looking forward to it!

Cheers.

Colin