Name: Niall Mitchell
Course: FdSc Health and Wellbeing
My Story
Initially not planning on taking the university route, Niall was set to go into full time work after he completed his BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science at the Penwith campus. However, the introduction of the FdSc Health and Wellbeing degree at Penwith meant Niall was able to continue his studies straight from FE level, without even changing campuses. The transition felt natural, thanks in large part to the teaching staff he already knew and trusted.
“I was always more interested in staying down in Cornwall and working rather than going to university,” Niall explains. “But the degree at Penwith gave me the opportunity to work with teachers I’m comfortable with and still be able to fit work around my studies.”
“The familiarity of the lecturers drew me towards the course. They’re very responsive, very supportive and they’re willing to help. I feel very comfortable asking them questions.”
The flexibility of the course has also enabled him to balance education with work, having spent a portion of his studies holding a role as a Health, Wellbeing and Sport Assistant at Penwith College.
“[One of] the perks of studying locally,” Niall says, “is you don’t need to worry about accommodation; I can stay with my parents. As the course is only two days, it allowed me to continue to work in the other days and in the evenings.”
For Niall, the Penwith Campus offers more than just a great course, it’s a space that suits his lifestyle.
“The degree being available at Penwith made travelling easy, the campus is quiet and I know the area. I can keep my car without having to sell it to go to university further away.”
After his course, Niall hopes to find a role within the realm of Health and Wellbeing, using his degree knowledge as well as his experience working for the HWS team.
