Case Study

I decided to attend university because I’ve always wanted to work with children, and managing a local restaurant in Sunderland made me realise it was time for a new adventure. While my job was fulfilling, I wanted something more challenging and a career that would allow me to make a positive impact on young lives. A friend of mine encouraged me to pursue Higher Education to gain the necessary qualifications to work in education or childcare, which opened my eyes to new possibilities.

I chose to study at the University of Sunderland as I’m a mother of two, so being close to home and where I grew up was important to me. Being close to my family meant I could get the support I needed while balancing the demands of studying, working, and motherhood. The familiarity of the area and the presence of family and friends provided a strong foundation as I pursued my educational goals. This really helped me focus on my degree whilst being there for my children and managing all my responsibilities. Ultimately, studying at Sunderland has allowed me to continue building a future while staying close to home.

I’ve studied for two degrees since I joined the University – the BA (Hons) Childhood Studies, which I graduated from in 2023, and now coming towards the end of the MA Childhood and Youth Studies course. My favourite part of the master’s is the hands-on experience and practical applications we get to engage in. I really enjoy working on projects that allow me to apply what I’ve learned in real-life situations, as it helps deepen my understanding of the subject matter and prepares me for my future career.

During my studies, I secured a job working with children that I’ve always wanted as an Early Help Worker, focusing on supporting families and children in need through early intervention. This role helps me identify challenges early on and provide the necessary support for families navigating difficult situations. Being in this position enables me to make a positive impact on people’s lives and further develop my skills in a field I’m passionate about.

There are several key concepts and skills I learned during my degrees that I now apply in my work today. For example, the theories of child development have been invaluable in understanding the needs of the children I work with. The training I received in communication and collaboration has also helped me to engage with families and other professionals effectively. Overall, my academic experience has given me a strong foundation that I rely on in my daily role as an Early Help Worker.

My advice to prospective students considering studying at the University of Sunderland is to embrace all the opportunities available to you. Actively engage with your lecturers and peers as building relationships can enhance your learning. Don’t hesitate to seek support when you need it, whether it be academic or personal. Also, take advantage of the resources and extracurricular activities offered, as they can enrich your university experience and help you develop further useful skills. Lastly, stay open-minded and adaptable, as these qualities will serve you well throughout your studies and future career.

If I could sum up my experience, I’d say it’s been transformative and rewarding. The supportive community, engaging coursework, and practical opportunities have all contributed to my personal and professional growth. I’ve gained not only valuable knowledge and skills, but also lasting friendships that I’ll value for years to come. Overall, my time at Sunderland has been an impactful journey that’s equipped me for my career.”

Published 2 October 2024