Moving away for university can be tough – especially when you trade your home in the countryside for a big city.
Angela Gray, who is originally from Wick, moved to Aberdeen four years ago to start studying for a degree in law.
Yesterday, as the 22-year-old picked up her 2:1 award, she said the leap had been worth it – even when she struggled to get home at Christmas when bad weather ruined her travel plans.
“There were some awful winters when it was a nightmare to get home. One night I slept in a train at Inverness because the snow was so bad,” she said.
“But I’ve always made it, and it just made the trips home more worthwhile.”
Miss Gray was watched by her proud mother Elaine, sister Angela and her grandparents yesterday as she collected her award at Elphinstone Hall.
The day was made even more poignant as she had to spend it without her father, Michael, who died six years ago after battling multiple sclerosis.
Miss Gray was studying for her Higher exams at Wick High School when he died, and her graduation was the first big occasion without him.
“Aberdeen was a big change from country life, but I’ve really liked living in the city,” she added.
“It took a while to get used to, but I got there in the end.
“I’ve got every intention of staying in Aberdeen to get my diploma in legal practice.
“There’s no way I want to leave now.”
