Prior to starting my degree, I completed Routes to Learning and Access to Higher Education Diploma - Humanities and Social Sciences courses at CWA, which enabled me to further my studies and study my degree in History and English Literature.

My future aspirations are to become a History or English teacher at a college. Being a mature student, returning to learning proved that I could return to studying, as I always wanted to do that.

I chose to study at UcWA due to its location being local to me and the friendships I had made whilst studying Humanities and Social Sciences at CWA - we all wanted to study together. I also believe in keeping your talents local.

I have often said that since graduating, if I could do the whole four years again on a loop, I would. I really enjoyed the whole experience. I made some lifelong friendships and it is one of the best things I have ever decided to do with my life. I am very proud of my achievements. It is something I never thought was even available to me, let alone possible.

After graduating, I stayed at UcWA to complete the DTLLS course. I studied at King’s Lynn and my teaching placement was at King’s Lynn and Wisbech campus. I taught Shakespeare at my first English class. I turned full circle by sharing an office with those who taught me during my access and routes to learning courses!

If you are considering returning to learning as an adult, I would say, don’t be afraid, just do it! It can, and will, change your life. Even if you don’t know what to do with your degree, you will have something that no one can ever take away from you. It is hard work; you get out what you put in, but it is worth it in the long run. If you do decide to do a degree, don’t forget to enjoy it and stop every so often and remind yourself why you’re doing it. It is better to regret trying something than never doing it at all.

I am now a senior manager for a company called Augusta Care, based in Peterborough. We provide supported living to adults with learning disabilities, autism, mental health needs and many other complex health conditions. I run the training department for the company and am responsible for staff training and development. My job includes developing training resources and developing training programmes for senior support staff and managers.