Robert Gordon University graduates Graham Gordon and Elaine Anderson have good reason for feeling on top of the world.
Not only did the Aberdeen couple graduate on the same day – but they did so just two months after fulfilling another lifetime ambition to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
Mr Gordon explained: “After we both submitted our final pieces of course work on October 6, we flew out to Tanzania and, a week later, we stood on the highest point of Africa.
“It was one of the most gruelling but rewarding experiences of my life, a bit like university.”
“Climbing Kilimanjaro was something we had talked about and planned for a long time,” added Miss Anderson, a former pupil of Kincorth Academy.
“It is difficult to put into words how amazing it feels to have successfully completed my studies at RGU and climbed the world’s highest freestanding mountain.”
The couple first dated in 2005, but drifted apart and pursued separate lives.
They have since rekindled their romance whilst both studying at the Garthdee campus – following a discussion in the library about coursework.
Picking up his second degree from RGU having graduated with an MSc in Project Management last year, Mr Gordon graduated yesterday with an MBA in Oil and Gas Management with distinction.
He said: “When I first enrolled, my dream was to complete my course and pass with distinction. Not only did I achieve that, but I was given the Head of School Award for outstanding academic performance.
“I couldn’t be happier – RGU exceeded my expectations by a considerable margin.”
Miss Anderson had worked in the Oil and Gas industry for 13 years, but due to the downturn and the lack of job security, made the decision to leave her job. She graduated yesterday with an Msc in Project Management.
She said: “Switching to the full-time course from distance learning allowed me to fully commit to my studies without any distractions or uncertainties.
“The highlight of the course was writing my dissertation which looked at how project management methodologies can increase the success and survival of small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
“I run my own personal training business and have a passion for business development in SMES.”
The couple are now jetting off to Australia today to embark on a three-month trip which they hope will culminate in climbing Mount Everest.
