Emma's Chester Made Story: Choosing to spend four years of my life in Chester was the best decision I made

The thing that stands out the most to me when I think about my time in Chester is how much I loved it – how much I loved the city and the whole Chester University experience. The best decision I made was choosing to spend four years of my life in this amazing place. Even after graduating over two years ago, I still regularly come back to visit. It really is a great city. The University, my academic department, and lacrosse team gave such a strong sense of community that really made Chester my second home.

At Chester I Was Never Just a Number

I loved the department I was in! It really made my Chester experience and academic journey what it was. I cannot sing highly enough the praises of the department of Sport and Exercise Science (now Public Health, Sport and Wellbeing). I loved how passionate and knowledgeable my lecturers were. I found the smaller cohort sizes on the BSc in Physical Education course invaluable. From the first day of Freshers' Week, you were never just a "number" or "another student" in the department. The lecturers really took the time to get to know you, which made the lectures, seminars and input even more valuable. Throughout my Master's in Sociology of Sport and Exercise, I really valued the flexibility to focus my assignments on areas of interest and how supportive the staff were in guiding you to follow your passions and interests.

The University Unlocked My Career Path

I never really knew what I wanted to do career wise – all I knew was that I wanted to work in the sport sector. My time at Chester helped me discover my passion for ensuring sport and physical activity opportunities are inclusive and equitable for all individuals, so everyone is able to experience the benefits of sport, physical activity and movement. This interest was unlocked during lectures in my undergrad on inclusion and differentiation in PE lessons. I followed this interest for my undergraduate dissertation, and further throughout my Master's assignments and dissertation.

I'm now working in the sport sector for a Regional Sport Partnership who are truly passionate about promoting equity across the region. I wouldn't be in this job without the support and guidance of my lecturers who encouraged me to follow my interests and deepen my knowledge and understanding in this space.

A Second Family – Chester Women's Lacrosse

I'd recommend to anyone to join a sport or society. Throughout my time at Chester, the girls at Chester Women's Lacrosse became my second family. Training four days a week, playing BUCS matches, and Wednesday night socials, I've made friends for life from this team.

Post-graduation: Following My Passion

I love that I'm working for an organisation who are passionate about promoting equitable opportunities across our region. I'm the Partnership Support Officer and Inclusive Volunteering Lead for a Regional Sport Partnership. I'm currently working on a project with Disability Sport Wales exploring how inclusive and accessible volunteering opportunities are for disabled people. I love that I'm able to put my passion, knowledge and skills developed throughout my time in university into real-world use.

My Advice for Current and Future Students

Being at university is such an experience; you'll learn things and grow in ways you never thought you would. Take all of the opportunities that are offered to you and make the most of your time there. You'll be working full time and reminiscing about those uni days before you know it! Embrace everything.

Chester Made Me Who I Am

I'm proud to be a Chester graduate. When I think back to my first day of Freshers' Week at 18, to graduating for the second time with a Master's at 22 and everything in between – I wouldn't change a thing. Chester has made me who I am today.