When retired veterinary surgeon Michael Geddis signed up to a recreational art class at South Eastern Regional College’s Ballyboley Campus he had no idea that it would be his first step towards studying a Fine Arts degree at University.
In September 2009 Donaghadee man Michael, enrolled on a leisure art course at SERC, “to help recuperate from a long-term illness”. His course tutor was Jane Swanston, who immediately noticing Michaels natural talent persuaded him to transfer to an accredited OCN Art course which would lead to a recognised qualification.
As his new course progressed Jane recognised that his rate of progression was down to his creative ability and dedication to the course and she encouraged him to consider art as a profession and not just a hobby.
As well as being a part-time Art lecturer at SERC, Jane also lectures at the University of Ulster in York Street and suggested to Michael that he think about applying to do an Honours Degree in Fine and Applied Arts. As someone who had previously worked as a vet this was a completely different career path to follow but it was also something that would allow Michael to fulfil a childhood ambition of pursuing a career in art.
Expelling his fear of returning to higher education Michael successfully applied for the degree course, gaining direct entry, bypassing the foundation level. This is a credit to Michael’s dedication and ambition and to Jane for recognising and nurturing his potential.
Michael had this to say; “Signing up for the Art course at SERC has really transformed my life. I took the decision to enrol on the course as I thought it would help me recuperate from a long-term illness, little did I know that it would lead to me studying a full-time art degree a year later.
“Jane Swanston has been a real inspiration, she has encouraged me and motivated me to achieve my goals, from getting me to switch to an accredited art course when I first signed up to SERC, to giving me additional tutelage as I prepared myself for a return to university study.”
He continued; “I had previously worked as a vet for 25 years before taking early retirement. Returning to education has reinvigorated me and I look forward to pursuing a career as a professional artist upon completion of my degree.”
In January 2011 Michael was awarded ‘Community Education Student of the Year’ at the SERC Excellence Awards for his performance and dedication during his time with the College.