My parents were always of the understanding that in order to be a Primary School Teacher, I would need to train at a University.
Neither of my parents attended University, so they weren’t exactly sure about how the process of applying worked, but were supportive of me and my ambition from the very start.
My dad worked as an apprentice straight after finishing college before becoming a binder in a printing factory. My mum started full-time work as an administrator straight after finishing high school.
I was the first grandchild on my dad’s side to go to University, and the second on my mum’s side – so you could say that going to University is seen as a privilege in my family.
My parents came to all of the Open Days with me, and my mum took me to my interviews. They were both desperate for me to get a place at University as they knew how competitive it is getting onto Primary Teaching courses (from their research) – especially the University of Worcester that I had my heart set on from day one.
Just after I applied to University my dad was diagnosed with cancer, so it had to be the University of Worcester that I attended in order for me to help my mum care for him during his treatment and operations. Luckily, after extreme nerves and even tears at my interview, I was given an offer!
Everything I do at University is to make my parents proud. They have always said that they want me to live a life they never had, with a real career and inspiring young children for the rest of my life.
Staying at home whilst studying at the University of Worcester has meant that my support system – my family – have been around to help me through my struggles.
When I collect my scroll during my graduation next November, my degree will not only be for myself but for my family.
Worcester Student Life 