Trailblazing student Taron Hansen named UHI Directly Enrolled Student of the Year 2025
The University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) is delighted to announce that Taron Hansen has been named the UHI Directly Enrolled Student of the Year 2025.
Taron, who has just completed their first year of the BA (Hons) in History and Archaeology, is the first international undergraduate to join the history programme at the UHI Centre for History.
Taron, who is based in Canada, has demonstrated exceptional academic performance, dedication and leadership, earning them the top award for directly enrolled students at UHI. Directly enrolled students are not registered with one of UHI’s academic partners but instead enrol directly with the university itself and are supported by a UHI department or centre.
Despite the challenges of studying from a different time zone, often attending classes at 1am or 3am local time, Taron has consistently achieved first-class marks across all modules. Their personal academic tutor, Dr Linsey Hunter, who nominated Taron for the award, praised their academic excellence, work ethic and character:
“Taron is a truly exceptional student. They’re not only a trailblazer for international study at UHI, but they’re also thriving academically in a way that is genuinely rare for a first-year undergraduate. Their written work is of an incredibly high standard, demonstrating depth, clarity and maturity. Beyond that, they bring energy, kindness and commitment to our virtual classrooms, contributing to a stronger learning environment for everyone.”
Taron's contributions extend well beyond the virtual classroom. They have played a key role in building community among students, often encouraging quieter classmates to participate, and consistently offering thoughtful, supportive engagement. Despite being naturally shy, Taron has worked hard to grow their confidence and communication skills, making a significant impact on class dynamics.
After leaving school, Taron entered the workforce but later returned to education with a desire to pursue a career in history and archaeology. Choosing to study online with UHI from another country and time zone, following a break of several years, demonstrates remarkable courage, commitment, and resilience.
Taron is also actively supporting the UHI Centre for History’s outreach efforts as an ambassador for international delivery and is living proof of how UHI’s flexible model of study can effectively support learners around the world.
On receiving the award, Taron said:
"This award means so much to me. My first year at UHI was a challenging, rewarding, and inspiring experience and I am so grateful to have even been considered for an award. UHI has fuelled the fire in my heart for history and archaeology, and I can’t wait to see where the rest of my time at UHI takes me."
Taron will receive a £100 prize and now goes forward for consideration for the Overall UHI Student of the Year 2025, which will be announced later this month.