The Regius Professor of Mathematics at St Andrews at the time was Nicholas Vilant, and Leslie studied under him and also under his assistant John West . Leslie's abilities were quickly noticed by the Principal of the University who arranged a scholarship to enable Leslie to continue his studies.
Ang Regius Propesor ng Matematika sa St Andrews at ang oras ay Nicholas Vilant, at Leslie-aral sa ilalim ng kanya at din sa ilalim ng kanyang assistant John West. Leslie mga kakayahan ay mabilis na napansin ng Principal ng University na inayos ng isang scholarship na paganahin ang Leslie na magpatuloy sa kanyang pag-aaral.