On the steps of a bustling Elphinstone Hall, twelve former students returned to their old stomping ground, almost fifty years after sitting their final exams in the historic building.
Earlier this month, the University’s open day saw almost 2,000 visitors at the institution. Amongst the crowds were members of the French class of 1979, reuniting in what they described as their “refreshers” event.
As Elphinstone Hall filled with keen youngsters eager to be the next set of Freshers, the group of 12 graduates ventured inside, stopping to chat to Dr Khaled Bashir, Arabic lecturer, 50 years on from their first days in Aberdeen
Speaking to The Gaudie, Pamela said:
“We booked some lodges just outside Aberdeen to have a weekend together and we thought we would come in and have a look around. We had no idea this [the open day] was going on!”
Although almost five decades have passed since they walked into Marischal College as graduands, the group say they have kept up to date with the latest news from the University, including supporting the recent modern languages campaign from afar.
“A few of us were language teachers and so we signed the petition,” she said, adding, “we feel very strongly that our pupils from school are able to access language teaching at the University of Aberdeen.”
Reflecting on their experiences as languages students, the ground immediately identified “friendship” as the most important thing they gained from their studies. They added that the opportunity to travel to France in 1977 during their studies cemented lifelong bonds between the friends.
“I look back on the time in France as the most fantastic time of my life,” Fiona shares.
“The year abroad really consolidated our friendship,” May added, “we all kept in touch when we were abroad.”
Pamela reminisced about the ‘highlight’ of that year:
“We all met in Paris to go to the rugby that year – Scotland were playing France, and we were dancing ceilidh in the street!”
Despite Scotland losing to France 23-3, the group spoke fondly of the trip and recalled how well they were supported by Dr Geoffrey Hare, their French lecturer. Not only had Dr Hare taught them in Aberdeen, but he also visited them during their year abroad, observing their teaching an encouraging them to meet as a group, which helped cement lifelong friendships.
“We had very good lecturers who really took a personal interest. It was very motivating,” Sheila tells us.
“We were even prepared to speak Queen’s English in France because our lecturers knew the French children wouldn’t understand our strong Aberdonian accents! It was so helpful!”
Word quickly spread about the group’s visit. Dr Shona Potts, a senior lecturer from the French department joining, telling the group that it was “fantastic” to see a large group of alumni at the open day.
Chatting to The Gaudie admist of one of the biggest gatherings of prospective students at the University, the group told us why they still believe Aberdeen is a great choice.
“We got a very good education here,” May tells us, “it’s such a lovely setting too. The campus is beautiful.”
Though much had changed, many sights remained familiar. The group recalled studying in the small languages library in the Taylor Building and spending countless hours in the French section of the old King’s Library, now home to the King’s Conference Centre.
“It was beautiful, but it was also very small.” Sheila admitted, recognising the need for the new library, with the SDR opened in 2012.
As they wandered the familiar grounds, sharing old stories and laughter, the advice to today’s students became clear: embrace every moment, just as they had done five decades ago.
“Se régale!” John said with a grin – an apt reminder to enjoy it all.
