Case Study

I had quite a tough time at school, having dropped out of my A Levels, then college the year after. I had just found out I was dyslexic and I struggled so much with the teaching style – it wasn’t working with the way I learn. I ended up getting accepted onto an apprenticeship scheme at my workplace and at the very last minute, decided to research universities that were likely to take me. Out of all five universities I applied to, Sunderland was the only one who provided me with an offer and I couldn’t be happier with the way things have turned out.

I graduated from the BA (Hons) Business and Applied Management with a First Class Honours degree and followed on from that with the MSc Inequality and Society. My favourite aspects of my master's course are the staff, the wide variety of students on my cohort and the unique optional modules we can choose from. I’ve received excellent support for my dyslexia throughout the whole time I’ve been here too, which I’ve never been offered before. This has really helped me out and given me the confidence and belief that I can get an education.

I’ve been offered a full studentship to complete a PhD at Loughborough University, where my research will be about offender perspectives and experiences of coercive control in abusive relationships. I hope that one day, I can affect change in how we, as a society, look at preventing the cycle of domestic abuse. Once I’ve completed my PhD, I would love to come back to the University of Sunderland as part of the academic teaching staff.

If you’re thinking of studying here, my advice would be to take every opportunity that is offered to you. I ended up securing an internship with IBM, as well as moving to Berlin, which has changed my life completely. Most importantly, don’t hesitate to ask for help!

I would highly recommend the University of Sunderland to anyone – it’s the perfect place to study, especially for those who may not believe in themselves that they can do it. It’s been a brilliant experience, full of unique opportunities and supportive people. Sunderland is a great place to live too. It’s so inclusive and I’ve enjoyed being part of the community and University all five years I’ve been a student here.”

Published 20 June 2022