A Robert Gordon University mature student, who completed his degree at the age of 66, has received a special prize from the Society of Underwater Technology (SUT).
Shubha Chand Sheorayan, who hails from India but now lives in Australia, has been awarded the eighth Martin Richmond Award, which is presented annually by the SUT to a student who has not only demonstrated academic rigour but also a passion for their chosen subject.
Sheorayan, who currently works for the Department of Defence Australia (DDA) as a hyperbaric engineering manager, gained a Master’s in Subsea Engineering with distinction this year after deciding to embark on the course by distance learning in 2009.
He said: “I’m at an age where I could retire but I love my career and it gives me an opportunity to learn more. I am always keen to learn about new technologies.
“A combination of natural curiosity and encouragement from my employer helped me to enrol for the MSc Subsea Engineering Course at RGU by distance learning.
“My employer promised full financial assistance and time off for further study which was an attractive option and I enrolled in 2009.”
Sheorayan, whose career has also seen him work in Canada and Hong Kong, said: “My last experience of higher education was in 1987 when I graduated with an MBA from the University of East Asia in Hong Kong.
“This meant I had to brush up on my basics which were out of date by more than 25 years but I was determined to succeed and spent long hours going through university study material and completing assignments.
“With a full-time job, household responsibilities and family commitments, it could be a bit of a struggle but if you are determined to get something in life the focus must be maintained.
“In my case I have another Master’s with distinction at the age of 66 and set a good example for my colleagues and grandchildren.
“I continue to work full-time and help make the life of sailors and divers safer with advances in technology – a hugely rewarding job.”
Each year the prize, which was created in memory of former SUT Aberdeen chairman Martin Richmond, takes the form of a painting created by a Gray’s School of Art student.
This year’s winning piece, chosen by Richmond’s wife Ann alongside a member of the SUT and former employer Wood Group Kenny, was produced by third-year painting student Gemma Travers, 20, who received £500 for the work.
She was inspired by the narrow winding paths, over shadowing trees and misshapen cobbles of St Nicholas’ Churchyard.
The painting was presented to RGU representatives Jo-Anne Tait and Paula Rorie on behalf of Sheorayan at the SUT Aberdeen branch AGM last month before winging its way to Australia.
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