Sharon Lord | Access to Higher Education

Sharon’s Journey to University Starts with Loughborough College

Adult learner Sharon has aspirations of becoming an Operating Department Practitioner, supporting and providing care to hospital patients throughout the operation and recovery processes. Aiming to get to university to achieve her goal, Sharon returned to Loughborough College to achieve her Access to Higher Education qualification.

“I studied at Loughborough College some years ago, and knew it was an excellent place to learn.” Said Sharon.

Motivated by her career goals, Sharon joined the Health and Social Care course, developing her knowledge in Biology, Psychology and Maths, and learning skills in nursing and para-medicine which has in turn prepared her for university.

Sharon credits the support she received whilst balancing her responsibilities as a parent and carer with studying, sharing, “Talking with my tutors when I needed support or advice really did help. I couldn’t fault my tutors, nothing was too much trouble and I feel extremely lucky to have had them.”

Looking back on her time on her course, Sharon says she feels prepared and confident for her future. “The knowledge and skills I've gained during my college education, such as critical thinking, teamwork, communication, and time management, have put me in a great position for the future.

“This course has not only benefitted me by opening doors to opportunities I never thought would be possible, but it has also helped me to develop transferable and valuable skills for my next steps.”

Now in her first year of a BSc in Operating Department Practice at university, gaining first-hand experience on a hospital placement, Sharon is grateful for her time at Loughborough College setting her up for her dream career. “I would definitely recommend Loughborough College to others. The tutors are extremely knowledgeable, caring, supportive, respectful, and inclusive. I wouldn't hesitate to come back.”

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