Access to HE – Jesse’s story of studying at EKC Canterbury College

Jesse is currently studying the Access to Higher Education: Social Sciences course, with the hopes of progressing to university.

He caught up with us to share his story and why he chose to return to education.

Why did you decide to study the Access Social Science course?

“I’m 27 and I’ve been working in Health and Social Care for the past five years. I’ve got to the point where the only way I can progress in my career is by having a degree.

“I’m looking to become a social worker, but I flunked A Levels, so coming back and doing this course means I can go to university.”

What’s your experience been like so far?

“My overall experience has been great. My lecturers are really helpful and understanding. I’ve really enjoyed my Psychology classes as the topics are really interesting. I did Psychology at A Level briefly, so it’s been interesting revisiting those topics in greater detail, including similar case studies.

“Overall, it’s just been interesting being back in education, because it’s been about a decade for me, so I’ve enjoyed that more than anything.”

What’s the overall support like at College?

“It’s been brilliant. I have a stressful home life, and I’ve felt supported with that.

“My lecturers on the subjects I’m doing are really understanding and supportive and they help me any way they can when it comes to assignments or even just understanding topics.”

Why would you recommend studying Access to HE overall?

“I’d recommend it for people who struggled with A Levels or their personal circumstances. Lots of things happen in life which can affect you. If you look at my situation, I had some serious mental health problems at the time, so studying Access to HE has got me back into the mindset of learning.

“It gets you back into the mindset of being in education, and more importantly it also gives you access to university.

“I’d say it’s almost like a second opportunity, I think. It’s like a clean slate if you struggled previously, is how I’d describe it. I think that would be the main reason.”

What advice would you give to someone who’s studying Access to HE next year?

“You need to understand it is very intensive, so you do really have to commit yourself and make it a priority in your life.

“You’re essentially doing four concurrent A Levels in a year, and they range from subjects such as neurobiology to education, so you’re studying quite a vast array of different topics. You really do have to apply yourself.

“I don’t think it’s something you can go into with the mindset of doing it as sort of a side thing. Think about where you are and if you’re in a situation where you can give a year to the course? The end result is so worth it if you can.”

What are your next steps after College?

“I’m going to be studying Social Work at Canterbury Christ Church University, which should be fun. I’m looking forward to it.”

Thank you to Jesse for sharing his story. If you’re looking ahead to university and want to progress there in one year, our Access to Higher Education courses are perfect for you.  

Explore our Access to Higher Education courses and start your journey in September.