Let's say hello to...
Empowering Gala’s community one list at a time.
Hey guys! I’m Paisley, the new Student Engagement Assistant here at the Scottish Borders Campus. I was born in California and lived in Los Gatos which is Spanish for the cats, quite ironic considering I am such a big cat person! After Cali, I spent part of my childhood in Texas, and somehow found myself in Galashiels studying Interior Architecture and Design. I’m now in my second year, and I genuinely can’t stress enough how much Heriot-Watt has shaped my experience for the better.
I’m dyslexic and have auditory processing disorder, so my brain processes differently. That’s why Visual Communication is my favourite class. It’s basically how you use visuals to communicate rather than words. Images get to you quicker than words and it’s especially true in my case.
SBC really suits the way I learn. It’s the simple things that mean the biggest difference. Lecturers always offer one-to-one feedback, they make time for you, and if I need someone to slow down or explain something differently, they do it with kindness and that has been such a game changer.
I first connected with the Union as a student rep because I wanted to advocate for students. Saying yes to that opportunity opened up a whole new side of my university experience. Through volunteering, I found community, purpose, and some of my closest friends. It reminded me how powerful student communities are, especially in Gala. The community is so small that bridges are often crossed so you know most staff members and it builds a real feeling of safety.
Now, as a Student Engagement Assistant, you can find me by the Lounge or in halls chatting with students, gathering feedback, supporting societies. I want students to feel empowered to make things happen. I care a lot about commuters and making sure they’re part of everything, not just passing through. Everyone deserves to feel like this is their space.
If I could host my dream event at SBC, it would definitely be a giant pyjama party in halls with glow paint, music, games inspired by The Traitors, and of course a runway moment. If there’s anything you need to know is that us in Gala love a runway.
The Union value that resonates most with me is empowering. I have been empowered throughout all my life and want to do the same for others; I want to be their biggest cheerleader. My mom is actually the reason I ever stepped onto a stage. She gave me the confidence to try musical theatre when I was younger, and that encouragement made me overcome my social anxiety.
Outside of work and uni, musical theatre is such a big part of my life. Playing Vivian in Legally Blonde let me step into a version of myself that was bold and unapologetic. After five rehearsals of a stage kiss, I realised confidence is something you build, not something you’re born with.
Ways to get in touch with me...