UCAS - UCAS mature students: case studies

'I would say to everyone ''try'' because I'm glad I did.'

Name: Helen P

Age: 35

Studying: BSc Podiatry at Huddersfield University

Qualifications: Access to Health and Nursing

I left school at 16 in 1992, and wanted to go into a caring career. I enrolled at college to do a practical caring course. I got employment with one of my placement nursing homes, where I stayed for six years. I then applied for a job as a dental nurse and remained there for seven years, during which time I enrolled on the Access to Health and Nursing course. I have no idea what made me choose podiatry - it looked interesting I suppose. I started my university life after all my three children were born, in 2006.

I saw an advertisement in my local newspaper for the Access course, from which you could gain entry into podiatry - I didn't look for any other courses. I went straight to the Huddersfield University website to see what the hours of study were, of course with having children the part-time option was a great route to choose.

I wanted to prove to myself I could get a good qualification, and help financially to my home whilst enjoying my job. Money worries were a concern, however I had looked into NHS funded bursaries and found that this could be overcome. Childcare and family commitments became a worry, but as the course was part-time I managed to shuffle things around and made sure that these were sorted out prior to starting. Other than these issues, I was more looking forward to starting than having major concerns.

I am a couple of weeks away from finishing my course, and I have thoroughly enjoyed it. There were times when I thought I could not make the deadlines given, but the support you have from staff is great. I must stress that it has been the hardest four and a half years I have ever had, and there have been many ups and downs, but my family have been my back bone, and given me the support and courage to keep going. I would say to everyone 'try' because I'm glad I did.