Q&A with former Access to HE Learner, Sheena Wold

Q. Why did you choose to return to education?

A. After having a successful career in the Royal Navy I decided to leave to stay at home with my two daughters. I planned to wait until my girls were old enough to get themselves to and from school before I returned to education for a second career.

Q. Why study at Newcastle College?

A. I chose Newcastle College as it offered the course I needed to progress to university. I also attended another college in the area prior and Newcastle’s building and facilities were much more impressive than others.

Q. How did you manage juggling assignments alongside work, family and other commitments?

A. Organisation and time management. I ensured that I started assignments early, and set small attainable goals. Planning my workload and study time around family life and other commitments really helped.

Q. How did the Access course prepare you for university?

A. I found my academic writing was nurtured following advice from tutors. Being taught to reference also helped improve how I research. The subject content was perfect for my degree. Most of all I felt prepared in every sense and this gave me great confidence when I started my degree.

Q. What help and support did you receive from lectures?-

A. Lecturers were always available to support with any assignment issues and also personal issues. There was a high level of support in the preparation for assignments and students were always aware of what was being asked of them.

Q. Where are you now?

A. I am currently studying Social Work at Keele University and I have recently finished my second year.

Q. What are your future career goals?

A. After completing my social work degree, I am contemplating a master’s degree in psychology. I also would like to complete training to become an approved mental health practitioner (AMHP) in social work.

Q. How did the Access course prepare you for university?

A. The Access course fully prepared me for university, compared to others in my university cohort, I truly feel I was at an advantage having done it. I would compare the course to foundation level learning. It was very demanding and fast-paced but very well organised and structured. I do believe the tutors go above and beyond with all students and I will always be grateful and glad that I attended.

If you've been inspired by Sheena's story, find out more about studying an Access to HE course at Newcastle College.