Case studies of students who completed their studies at UEL
Pamela Thompson
Newham resident Pamela successfully completed a Business Studies degree after seeking advice and guidance on educational opportunities at the University of East London’s Information, Advice & Guidance centre.
Pamela decided to seek advice on educational opportunities after becoming a single parent and wanting to do something constructive with her life. Pamela was so surprised when she found out there were routes available at UEL that would enable her to progress onto a Business degree. Pamela completed the New Beginnings 2 application (14 week preparatory programme offered by UEL) and was accepted. During the visit Pamela was able to see a specialist student finance advisor and find out about student finance and childcare funding. Pamela was able to see how possible it was to study for a degree. Pamela cried for joy while at the advice centre – this was to be the turning point to making a better life for herself and her daughter!
After completing the New Beginnings 2 programme Pamela progressed onto the Business Studies degree which she also successfully completed. Pamela said “The New Beginnings 2 programme provided me with the skills, abilities and confidence to progress onto a degree at UEL”. Pamela celebrated completing her degree at UEL and stated “I am very proud of myself and so glad I took the initiative to seek advice about the opportunities available to me”
Paul Ridler
Paul left school with 4 O’ levels grade C but soon lost interested in school and started working once leaving. Over the years Paul always felt that something was missing and although none of his family had progressed to university, Paul had a desire to go to university and become a teacher. Paul became a dad at the age of 22 and for a number of years the passion to go to university never strayed far from his thoughts. At the age of 29 he decided to seek advice to find out if it was possible to progress to university. Paul was seen by an adviser at the Pre-entry IAG centre and was advised to undertake an Access course (preparatory programme that enables progression to university). Paul also found out about the student finance side of studying at higher education as well as advice on completing a UCAS application and personal statement.
Paul applied for and was accepted onto an Access course which he successfully completed. Paul progressed to an English Literature degree at UEL and subsequently the Postgraduate Certificate in Education which he successfully completed. Paul realised his dream of becoming a teacher through sheer determination and hard work. He is so pleased he took the initiative to seek advice on how to progress to university as a mature student and is extremely happy with the advice he was given.
Case Studies of Students who successfully completed the Starting Out Course
Student No 1
This course has really helped me in a lot of different areas. I was always afraid of going for interviews but since I did the course, it has given me more confidence and I am more relaxed than ever. I now know how to deal with my fear, boldness and straight forward. I have gained a lot from this course which I can put into practice. For the short time I came on the course I have learnt a lot of things, I am a different person now, looking forward to employment so that I can put my training into practice.
Student No 2
Under this course provided by Skillzone, I have gained lots of knowledge which is important to me in terms of gaining entry to my chosen career. They helped us to learn about how to prepare a curriculum vitae and how to handle interview situations. The tutors also helped to provide us necessary information regarding how to be more positive.
Student No 3
I found the whole experience of attending the 5 week short course programme very positive for myself. It has helped me in my preparation for returning to study at university. I found the tutors very friendly, professional and approachable.
Student No 4
Coming onto the course has enabled me to take up the opportunity to start a degree at university. Having already been accepted, the Starting Out course has relaxed me and opened my eyes about the different facilities that are available to students here.
Student No 5
The workshops I attended were eye openers for me. They enabled me to believe in myself and has given me the confidence to move forward in my life. A lot of the tips gained from the course will help me to apply for a course or employment opportunities.
Student No 6
The course has been very helpful to me as next year I am starting the New Beginnings 2 course and then onto a politics degree. The course helped me a lot starting with a CV which I was unable to do in the past. I am now very confident with my CV. I made some good friends. Thank you for the course and the tutors.
Student No 7
Daphne gave me a call about the course; she thought it would be good for me as I am starting the New Beginnings 2 programme in March 07 at the Docklands campus leading onto a degree in September 07 in Special Educational Needs. The course opened up a lot of doors for me and has given me confidence and assertiveness skills. I met some lovely people and was taught by some lovely tutors. A lot of information and details about various things such as CV’s personal statements, interview skills, self reflection and assertiveness. The course allowed me to open up my ideas to a better future and stepping stone in my life. The tutors were very good, clear and approachable. They were helpful and always willing to help.
Student No 8
Before I was contacted about the course I was actually applying to university. This was quite intimidating but since I started the course I found it very helpful. All that I did not know before has been opened up to me now and helped me so much. Most of all with my personal statement as before this I was asking family and friends what I should put in my personal statement which was somewhat helpful but still left me in the dark. After the course I now know how to apply myself to all that is needed.
Student No 9
This course has helped me to meet new people. Also to get information on how to up-date my CV and how to write a personal statement which I knew nothing about before. I would like to do another similar course to this as it was not long enough. A full day would have been better and longer than five weeks, say a couple of months. But still, it helped me a lot!
