Tanisha George's story
Tanisha George's story
Life there is laid-back, sunny, and very family-focused, quite different from the busy and hectic lifestyle of London.
Coming to the UK was a difficult decision for me. When I was 16, I was diagnosed with PCOS, and it was severe enough that I was told I might never have children. That news took a toll on me, and I felt like I didn't belong anymore. My initial plan was to attend the University of the West Indies, but I wanted to escape my life, so I applied for a flight attendant course in Minnesota, USA. However, circumstances led me to choose the UK instead, as the training here didn't require an upfront payment like in the US.
When I first arrived in London, I felt a bit lonely, lost, and unsure of what I wanted to do. I started working in retail, starting at Sports Direct and eventually becoming a store manager. I stuck with retail for a bit longer before I decided to pursue higher education.
I applied to the University of East London for a degree in accounting and finance. Being a single mum has brought its fair share of challenges. Juggling the responsibilities of raising my daughter while studying full-time has been demanding. However, even during those tough times, I always put my daughter first. I'd put her to bed and then work on my assignments, even if it meant holding her on my lap if she woke up during the night. She became my little partner in learning.
Although the journey has been tough, I know that it is all worth it when I see my daughter's motivation and her belief that the sky is the limit. She's been asking for a house since she could speak, and I want to make that dream a reality for her. It's my motivation to keep pushing forward and strive for a better future for both of us.
Going forward, I aspire to become a consultant, leveraging my expertise in finance to offer valuable insights to clients from various industries. I believe this combination of skills will set me apart and allow me to thrive in the consultancy world.
To students and graduates, I would say make the most of your time in university. Attend events, network, and participate in various activities. The opportunities that come from being involved can be significant for your future career. Don't wait until the end to start preparing for the world of work. Lastly, if any student is struggling or not having the best experience, I encourage them to seek help and find someone who will listen and support them. I have seen firsthand that getting to the right person can make a positive difference.
