Adult returner Zara (Zee) Weston was inspired to follow her creative passions, joining NESCol in 2023 to study 3D Computer Animation.

34-year-old Zee is originally from Essex and moved to Aberdeen four years ago. She completed a Foundation Diploma in Art & Design in England in 2009, and led a varied career, including ten years in the finance industry.

She said, “I’d always been a creative person and after completing my Foundation Diploma, I didn’t feel like university was for me, so I went straight into full time employment. The jobs I had never spoke to my creative side and after the Covid pandemic, it put a lot of things into perspective.

“So, I sold my house, packed up a van and moved to Scotland. After leaving my job in finance, I realised that life is too short and getting back into education is something that you can do at any age – so why not learn more about being creative?”

Studying 3D Computer Animation

Zee enjoyed her time at NESCol, particularly learning about the world of animation and the different careers paths she could take.

She said, “Animation was something completely new to me. It’s now a field I am confident in and can pursue a career within.

“I have also had the opportunity to go on extracurricular activities such as attending the MOVE Summit, where I met other animators and heard talks from the likes of Disney Animation Studios and Pixar!”

Support at NESCol

Zee praised the support she received from the College throughout her HND.

She said, “I found that college education in Scotland is a lot more accessible and accommodating compared to England.

“The lecturers have been awesome and really welcoming! They were patient and always on hand to help when needed. I felt like I could be open and honest with them about any issues that I was facing, and they provided a great learning environment where everyone was able to learn at their own pace with different tools and teaching methods.

“The Students’ Association team have been great in providing help and support when needed, and I was also able to get additional funding from the College during difficult times.”

College life

Zee has flourished at NESCol, both in her studies and as part of the College community. Keen to promote animation, she founded the Animation Society and created social media pages to showcase student work.

Her hard work was highlighted at the 2025 Go Celebrate Awards, where she was highly commended in the Go Excel category.

She said, “I really enjoyed learning something new and being able to connect with younger students that share the same interests. Also, the flexibility of the class timetable has allowed me to still have a work-life balance without feeling overwhelmed.”

She also praised the College facilities, including the refurbished planetarium!

Zee said, “There are a range of different places to grab something to eat and sit down, a quiet room, and even a salon you can book appointments in! I especially liked the planetarium, which not many people know about. I got to experience some mindfulness exercises in there.”

Next steps

The future is bright for Zee, and she has already set a plan in motion with her partner. The pair have launched their own media company called SZN Media Ltd, and offer animation, video and audio services to individuals and businesses around Aberdeen.

She said, “I would love to see SZN Media grow and provide teaching and freelance opportunities to others with the same interests in animation.”

Advice to future students

Zee’s advice to those interested in 3D computer animation is to go for it.

She said, “Do it! Apply! It’s a great opportunity and it gives you all the skills needed to really understand the industry.

“The College has given me the confidence to return to education, without the worry of whether I would fit in.

“There are so many varied courses available, whether it be full-time or part-time, so there’s something for everyone! Especially if you’re not sure whether taking the big leap to university is right for you.”

Zee added, “A massive thank you to both of my lecturers Aleksandra Clunas and Alan Amon, as well as Emma MacIsaac in the Students’ Association, for all their support.”

Study 3D Computer Animation at NESCol

Gain the technical and creative skills essential for a successful career in the animation industry.

Find out more about HND 3D Computer Animation