The University of Northampton Changed my Life!
Graduate Tanya tells us her story and how the University of Northampton gave her a love of academia.
My name is Tanya Richardson and I joined the University of Northampton, as a student, in September 2008. At the time I was the owner and manager of a children’s day nursery and out of school club and the government had just announced that every nursery had to be run by a graduate.
I could not afford to pay a graduate’s salary so decided the best way forward was to get the degree myself. I therefore began the foundation degree, mainly because my hand was forced, but very much looking forward to the challenge that it may bring. I attended university one day a week whilst still running my business and for the next few years the degree took over my life.
It took over my life in a remarkably positive way, though! What studying at the University of Northampton did for me was to give me the confidence to say why I practiced in the way that I did. It gave me the confidence to stand up in front of parents, and my peers, and gave me the underpinning knowledge to support my actions. As well as teaching me academic skills it also taught me personal skills and I have forged friendships that will last a lifetime.
It has also given me a love of academia. Once I completed my BA(hons) I then went on to obtain an MA and I am now undertaking a PhD.
It has also given me a love of academia. Once I completed my BA(Hons) I then went on to obtain an MA and I am now undertaking a PhD. When I began the course in 2008 I would never have dreamt that this journey would unfold in the way that it has. I now lecture full time at University and am able to inspire the next generation of practitioners in the way that I was extremely lucky to be inspired.
The University of Northampton has changed my life!
Check out Tanya’s research here: http://bit.ly/2jHq0Oz
