When he left school, Rory Barclay was homeless and faced an uncertain future.
But just six years later, he is the proud recipient of an HND in photography from North East Scotland College (Nescol).
The 22-year-old, who lives in Inverurie, collected his award at the Nescol graduation ceremony at Aberdeen’s Beach Ballroom yesterday.
And he admitted that it was difficult to comprehend how he had turned his life around.
The former Kemnay Academy pupil said: “It’s hard to reflect now because there’s so many little stages that have got me here.
“I was quite lucky that I was assigned a Barnardo’s worker when I left school and they really helped me get in touch with the right people, including my careers advisor, who was really a big help in getting me here.”
It was after winning a photography competition for charity Children 1st that his support worker recognised his natural talent for the discipline.
In the years since, Mr Barclay has worked so hard to develop his photography skills, finishing runner-up in the college’s end of year show.
He has now gone into second year at Gray’s School of Art, where he is studying contemporary art practice.
But he says his life could be very different now, after his relationship with his mother deteriorated to the point where he was forced to leave home.
“I think we are very fortunate that we are in a place which has this education system, where almost anyone can apply for funding to help them study,” he said.
“The support network is there, but I think the problem is people don’t realise it’s there for them.
“I hope my story can perhaps help other young people who have experienced difficulties at school or in their home life by showing them that there are opportunities out there. At the risk of sounding like a cliche, college helped me find myself and realise my potential.”
