As I start my first week of the Hello Future Graduate Internship, I have found myself reflecting on my personal higher education journey and the steps that have led me to what I am currently doing. From ending Year 11 prematurely when the pandemic took place, to moving to Liverpool and completing my degree – here is an insight into my background.
School Years and Sixth Form:
I attended Furness Academy and opted to study RE, History, Health & Social Care and Travel & Tourism alongside the mandatory English Literature & Language, Maths and Combined Science. This was a broad range of subjects and at the time I didn’t know what I wanted to do next, which is perfectly okay!
After leaving school I decided to attend Barrow Sixth Form College where I was an honours student and once again chose a range of subjects, including an EPQ, Business, Law and Psychology. I had never initially planned to go to university due to concerns regarding moving away and whether further studies would be right for me. After deliberation, I made a last-minute decision during clearing and took a place at Liverpool John Moores University, studying Business Management. This pushed me out of my comfort zone immensely, and I am so glad that I did it! My move to Liverpool also made my family pleased, as a large family of Evertonians.
University:
At the beginning, this change was daunting. There was a much higher workload at university as opposed to sixth form, with lots of independent studying and assignments. There were a number of occasions where I found myself questioning whether I had made the right decision. However, I grew to love study sessions in the university library, group projects and writing a dissertation which was based on my own primary research – I would even go as far as to say I miss the studying.
I graduated in July of 2025 at the Liverpool Cathedral with a 2:1 grade, lots of amazing memories and many challenges overcome!
Tips and Advice:
I encourage everyone to be informed regarding their higher education choices and to be open minded. I also believe that it is important to remain curious and try new things in order to find out what you really enjoy doing, even if this means stepping out of your comfort zone.
For more advice and helpful resources, you can contact Hello Future or research upcoming events in your area.