Gemma Crowe – Doorstep Saints

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Age:

23

Place of birth:

Dundee

Location at time of conferral:

Dairsie

Degree:

MMath (Hons) Pure Mathematics (First Class)

What is your favourite memory (academic or social) of St Andrews?

In my third year, I had the amazing opportunity to perform Rhapsody in Blue with the Symphony Orchestra. Music was a huge part of my university experience, and that concert, in particular, will always stand out as one of the best.

What will you miss most about your time as a student at St Andrews?

The friends I’ve made over the past five years.

What advice would you give to new students?

Jump right in! I was rather reluctant and nervous about going to university, especially somewhere so close to where I grew up, but I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I felt at home in the bubble.

What are your plans after graduation?

In September, I will be starting a PhD at Heriot-Watt University.

How do you think the Covid-19 pandemic and global events have shaped the Class of 2020?

I don’t think anyone could have predicted how abruptly our time at St Andrews would come to an end, and I think the enormity of recent events has made us all stop and think about how we live our lives. Looking forward, I hope that all us graduates can help in some way to shape a better future.

Where have you spent your time during lockdown?

Back at my childhood home with my parents, enjoying the beautiful Fife countryside.

Have you taken any positives from the situation?

One thing that has struck me during this pandemic has been how everyone has made a collective effort to help others as much as possible. I think there is much more of a sense of community and everyone looking out for each other.

Do you plan to come back to celebrate in person in St Andrews in 2021? If so, what are you most looking forward to about it?

Yes! I am planning to attend the ceremony next summer and am looking forward to celebrating properly with my family and friends.