Guest Blogger: Sam Hawkes

I started studying at the University of Chester in 2018 with Learning Disability Nursing, after finding the course itself not the correct one for myself I switched to Criminology and Counselling skills. This course faced its own challenges with the impact of COVID-19 hitting in 2021. Although resources and learning moved remotely it never stopped the hard work and support from all the lecturers to ensure we received the fullest education possible. 

While learning moved back to normal in 2022 I faced my own personal challenge by falling pregnant with my son, this never stopped me pursuing the completion of my degree. The university provided me with tons of support including health and safety checks regularly as well as meetings with my PAT to ensure I was able to receive an equal learning opportunity as my classmates. During third year this also saw me having to move back home to the Northeast, with weekly PAT meetings and discussions with lecturers on teams with all my tutors as well as using my own innovative to study I was able to finish my degree with a 2:2! 

As well as studying, over the years I made the most of my time by being a student ambassador as well as a voice rep for my counselling skills class. The amount of support the University gave me over these difficult times was incredible and I was able to attend graduation like the rest of my classmates. 

I am now proudly working as a Clerk for my local police Constabulary and working to be a trained first aider and progress to become a police officer. 

Although you may be faced during your time with difficult periods and situations never be afraid to ask for help and support as the University of Chester were incredible! 

Samantha Hawkes 

Class of 2021