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'I am now in my final year and can't believe how quickly time has gone.'

Name: Paula A

Age: 41

Studying: BA Hons Business at Croydon College

Qualifications: HNC Business, NVQ Level 2 in Computer Studies, Secretarial Certificate, O levels & CSEs

I left school in July 1985 at the age of 16. I did not know what I wanted to do apart from start work asap so I opted for a private secretarial course at Croydon College. This was on the advice of many who said that having a typing qualification would mean I would always be able to work. I loved travel and also looked at a two year travel course, but typing won. My immediate circle of friends and I thought that working and earning money was more exciting than the thought of studying for A levels - for me personally, if I had the choice again, I would have chosen the A levels!

It was on the internet that I began to research higher education. As an adult I always regretted not studying for A levels or going to university. After a long term relationship ended, I decided to study and wanted to achieve something personally. I also thought it would be a way of meeting people. I work in London, but Croydon offered evening classes which suited me.

At the age of 38, and not having studied since 17, the thought of studying again was quite a daunting one. I was concerned about how I was going to manage studying 2/3 nights a week on top of my own work and home commitments. However, we all seemed to be feeling the same. Some of the younger students taught me study techniques they had learnt and I finally settled into semester one.

I felt unsure about studying when I started the course, but the course leader and lecturers soon eased my concerns and I felt quite excited at the thought of starting the course. The other students seemed really friendly, even though we were a very mixed group of ages and backgrounds. I am now in my final year and can't believe how quickly time has gone - don't get me wrong the course can be hard work and you have to be committed but the rewards are worth all the hard work. We help each other along and encourage each other at times when we find it all a bit overwhelming - actually when it comes to the end of term, we all find we miss the banter and college life and find ourselves at a bit of a loose end!

I decided to study initially to achieve something personally. However, as time has gone on I have found I have enjoyed learning again; it has broadened my outlook and knowledge; has given me a sense of confidence and, therefore, I have benefitted from the course both personally and academically. The lecturers are very supportive and committed also.

I am now looking forward this year to celebrating with a BA Hons! It is worth all the hard work and I have made some incredible friends and learnt a lot about myself along the way.