Annalisa

“Once I reached out for support, everyone at Penwith was great.” 

Name: Annalisa 

Course: A Level English Literature (B), Fine Art (B), Media Studies (B) 

Former School: St Ives School 

Next Steps: English Literature at the University of Exeter 

Achieving BBB in English Literature, Fine Art and Media Studies, Annalisa is celebrating her A Level success and looking forward to an exciting future. After taking a gap year, she plans to study English Literature at the University of Exeter, turning her passion for the subject into the next stage of her academic journey. 

For Annalisa, finding the right college environment played a huge role in her success. Having initially started at Truro Campus, she later moved to Penwith Campus, where she found a setting that suited her needs far better. She found that the smaller, more personal atmosphere at Penwith made all the difference. “Penwith is much more suited to me because it’s a lot quieter and less overwhelming. The culture is also very friendly and personal.” While she had initially assumed a larger campus would offer more opportunities, Annalisa soon discovered that Penwith had everything she needed to thrive. 

“Penwith does have a huge amount of resources and also amazing, kind teachers as well who’ve been here for years and years and have lots of experience.” 

Like many students, Annalisa faced challenges along the way and admits that asking for help did not always come easily. “I find it hard to reach out, so during the first year I found it quite difficult.” However, once she did seek support, she found staff were always ready to help. “Once I reached out for support, everyone at Penwith was great. Whatever you’re worrying about, they can help you.” 

As a result, one of her biggest messages to future students is not to struggle in silence. “I would say to anyone to speak out if you are struggling, whether it’s with College or something outside.” 

Reflecting on her own experience, Annalisa also shared some practical advice for students starting College this September. “Organise your notes from day one. That way you have all of your revision notes, and you have already spent time on them rather than revising it all at once really close to the exams.” She added: “I think being organised is definitely something that’s really helpful because then you can go back to previous stuff that you’ve written.” 

Looking back on her time at Penwith Campus, Annalisa is full of appreciation for the support she received. “Penwith has been amazing and has helped me and supported me to get these great results.” 

Her mother was equally enthusiastic in her praise for the College and its staff. “Penwith has been so amazing in every single possible way. The support has been beyond belief.” She also spoke warmly about the campus environment itself. “Penwith is so beautiful, absolutely stunning.” 

In particular, she highlighted the impact of Elle, Head of A Levels, whose guidance helped support Annalisa throughout her studies. “She’s just perfect at what she does. It’s like she was almost put there as a little angel to do that job.” She continued: “She understands each student’s individual needs and gives them her time. She articulates everything to perfection. She’s really kind and has helped me so many times. It’s just been amazing. She does this for everyone, not just my daughter.” 

Reflecting on the wider support available at Penwith, she added: “The support you get at Penwith might take you through onto university or might take you back a year, but then it’s the right thing for you to do. I feel that guidance of all the staff and the years of experience they have between them makes Penwith a very special place.” 

Now preparing for a gap year before progressing to the University of Exeter, Annalisa leaves Penwith Campus with excellent results, greater confidence and a clear direction for the future. 

Everyone at Truro and Penwith College congratulates Annalisa on her achievements and wishes her every success in the years ahead.