Peter Herd was attracted to Aberdeen University by challenges both in and outside the lecture theatre.
The 22-year-old, from the Balloch area of Inverness, is the second member of his family to graduate from the institution, after his brother Andrew, who left with a law degree.
His sister, Louise, also studies law at Robert Gordon University.
The former Culloden Academy pupil graduated at Elphinstone Hall yesterday, and was watched by his mother, brother, aunt and girlfriend.
The marine biology student is a passionate mountaineer and spent much of his spare time during his degree tackling the hills and peaks of the north-east.
He said: “It feels great to be done after four years, I’m hoping to now become a mountain guide.
“I’ve been working part time at the Transition Extreme wall, training to be a guide.
“I was involved with the university’s mountaineering club – the Lairig Club – and was the captain and safety officer.
“I’ve made a lot of friends there who I’ll stay in touch with.
“I love the adventure and the places it takes you to, and pushing yourself mentally and physically.
“There’s a lot of training involved, I do a lot of mountain biking and running, and also just by getting out there and doing it.”
