“Applying for a business course at the college was the best thing I’d one in a long time!” said 22-year-old Abbie Bennet who completed the Level 3 extended diploma in 2017 and has recently been awarded a BA (Hons) in Business Management by the University of Wolverhampton.
Abbie added: “After I’d done my GCSEs I went into the sixth form at school but didn’t enjoy the subjects I was studying, so I left. The day after, I went to a college open day and signed up for the business course straight away.
“I was still very unsure of what career path I wanted to take, however I knew that business studies could be applied to an array of different career choices which meant I could see what aspects of the course I enjoyed and go from there.
“Not only did I learn every aspect of business, I also learnt how to effectively manage my time and organise my workload. However, the biggest lesson I learnt was how to be a responsible and hardworking individual. I learnt how to work in a team with others and developed the most amazing friendships and support systems.
“The tutors’ support was one of the greatest things about the course – they spent as much time as they needed to support me through both my studies and other personal journeys. Nothing was ever too much trouble, they were always willing to go above and beyond their role and without their support I doubt I’d be where I am today.
“I’d always planned to go to university and, having thoroughly enjoyed my course at college and achieved D*D*D*, I chose to study for a BA (Hons) in Business Management. I was over the moon when I received an offer of a place – it was a wonderful feeling of happiness and relief that I’d done it!
“The information I learnt at college gave me a strong foundation for my degree, allowed me to push ahead with my assignments and left time for further studies. One of the aspects students find difficult when studying a degree is Harvard referencing but this was covered in my college course so, when I went to university, I was able to use my knowledge and execute the system impeccably.
“Being awarded my degree was the most surreal moment! I worked unbelievably hard to achieve it and am so proud of myself – it wasn’t easy, but it was so worth it! I’m now planning to go back to university and study for a Masters in Leadership and Management.
“My advice to anyone unsure about what to do after GCSEs is not to stress! Not everyone has an idea of what to do after they finish school so take your time, try different things and most of all, enjoy it! Always believe in yourself and keep pushing on! As long as you work hard you will succeed and find the path you want to take.”
