FORMER Evening Times Scotswoman of the Year finalist and Clyde College Fellow Julie McElroy has achieved a groundbreaking PhD.

The 30-year-old, who was born with cerebral palsy, completed her pioneering research into assistive technology at the University of the West of Scotland (UWS).

Julie’s studies looked at how disabled students use different kinds of aids, in a bid to help education bodies understand and potentially improve the learning experience for them.

She said: “I want my research to influence disabled student experiences, understand their perspectives and hopefully contribute to a better understanding of students’ use of assistive technology and the extent to which it can enhance learning and engagement.

“Glasgow Clyde College has always been behind me, they are very passionate about supporting their students, past and present.

“Fortunately, Glasgow Clyde College and University of the West of Scotland have both supported my studies providing valuable guidance and assistance in helping me recruit the staff and students to be involved in my research.”

Julie, who is profoundly deaf, was told at a young age she would probably spend her life in a wheelchair.

Refusing to accept any boundaries or limitations, she went on to complete dozens of physical challenges including trekking in the Himalayas, working with orphans in the slums of Delhi and canoeing the length of Loch Shiel.

Julie also completed the John Muir Conserver Award, the highest level of the environmental John Muir Award scheme, for completing four adventure challenges and inspiring other disabled people to get out and enjoy the great outdoors.

Her incredible efforts won her a place on the 2011 shortlist for the Evening Times Scotswoman of the Year award, narrowly losing out to Dr Mary Hepburn at the prestigious ceremony.

In 2014, Julie took on a mammoth challenge for the Evening Times, trying her hand at the top five para-sports - cycling, swimming, power lifting, athletics and lawn bowls - taking place at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games.

Her journey to higher education began at Glasgow Clyde College (then known as Cardonald College) where she studied Information Technology before gaining direct entry into third year at UWS.

Julie was the first female and youngest person to be awarded the Glasgow Clyde College Fellowship and she continues to be an ambassador for the institution.

At UWS she was awarded the Court Medal 2010 for highest achieving student, won the Adult Learner of the Year Award in 2012 from the Scottish Learning Partnership and was also given the Glasgow Lord Provost’s Award in 2012.

Nancy Birney, Head of Equality and Inclusion at Glasgow Clyde College said: “Julie is passionate and dedicated to her research and is a fantastic advocate for bringing enhanced understanding of how technologies can help people in higher education. We are proud of all our students but especially proud of what Julie has achieved since leaving the college.”