Helen - Testimonial
Name: Helen
Age: 36
Course: BSc (Hons) Computer Studies
Graduated in 2000
1. What were you doing before university?
I was working part time in 'Computer Technical Support' and as a Personal Assistant in the office of an Independent Financial Advisor.
2. How did you get into university?
It was a spur of the moment decision - I came to Southampton Solent University to see the Level 1 tutor of the Computer Studies course. I just walked in off the street really.
3. Why did you decide to go on to university?
I was bored with what I was doing and do enjoy learning. I also did not want to go for a full time job, as my children were still quite young.
4. Did you have any reservations about university, and if so to what extent were these realised?
I didn't really have any reservations about university, although I was a little unsure of my ability and what would be required.
5. As a mature student do you think you had a different university experience, and how do you feel you fitted in with the 'traditional' students?
When I studied here there were a number of mature students on the course and I suppose we connected because of our age. However, I did work with some of the 'traditional' students and demanded (!) that they put in the effort if they didn't already. I think on the whole though, there was probably was a bit of a 'them' and 'us' relationship.
6. Do you think the university experience has changed you?
Yes, it has made me more confident and proud of my achievements and myself.
7. Do you have any advice for a prospective mature student?
My advice is especially for people who were in my situation - bored, with 2 children and stuck in a rut - and it is simply to think of university as an option - why not? It opens lots of doors: educating yourself; meeting new people; socialising; learning new skills; opening doors to employment and ideas you would not have thought of it you hadn't gone.
8. What are you doing now?
I am employed by Southampton Solent University as a part time lecturer. I work in the Maritime and Technology Faculty teaching Java programming to level 1 BSc Computer Studies and BSc Software Engineering. I am also the Student Support Network Tutor for Computer Studies and am involved in the piloting of PDP in the Computer Studies course.
9. Do you feel university has prepared you well for this?
Without higher education I would not be doing ANY of this! It was during my time here, while working with (+ helping) other students that I realised that I wanted to go into teaching and my tutors encouraged me enormously. Studying here has also helped me to see the students' perspective which aids in my teaching. I would encourage everyone to go to university.