Staying connected to her family has paid dividends for Eguolo May Vanni, from Westhill, who has graduated from Aberdeen University with a PhD in economics.
Mrs Vanni, 33, who is originally from Nigeria, worked tirelessly to complete her degree while also raising three young children, but she and her loved ones made sure nothing deterred her from achieving her academic ambitions.
And she said yesterday: “They were all very proud and excited when they went off to school this morning.
“I’ve always loved economics and looked forward to furthering my education, so after having my second child, I thought it would be the right time to embark on the PhD.
“I actually had my third child while I was studying, but I didn’t take any time off my course. There were plenty of of late nights and early mornings, but my husband and mother-in-law were very supportive and I was able to juggle family and student life.
“It certainly was hard work, but it was important to remind myself of the end result and keep positive and motivated.
“Graduating alongside my peers, and with my husband and friends watching on, was something I will never forget.”
Mrs Vanni is now looking for jobs within the economics sector and is considering roles either with her alma mater, Robert Gordon University, or at North East College.
She said: “Aberdeen is my home. The city has given a lot to me and now, I want to give something back’.