Quinn – Access to Humanities and Teaching

“The most rewarding part has been knowing that I can do it. The course has given me so much confidence in my own abilities.”

Course studied:
Access to Humanities and Teaching

What’s next:
Progressing to the University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, to study History, with aspirations to continue to postgraduate study in the future

My story

Quinn’s journey to Higher Education has not been a straightforward one, but it has been one of determination, resilience and growing confidence.

After trying different courses and spending two years in employment, Quinn realised they wanted a career that reflected their passion for History rather than remaining in a job that no longer inspired them.

“I realised I didn’t want to be doing that forever,” Quinn explained. “I knew I wanted to come back to education, so I took a year to make sure I was ready, then I applied for the Access course.”

Returning to College was a significant step, but one that quickly proved worthwhile.

Throughout the year, Quinn discovered a confidence in their academic ability that they had never expected.

“The most rewarding part has been knowing that I can do it,” they said. “I started the course thinking I’d hopefully pass, but I’ve consistently achieved Distinctions. It’s been a really good confidence boost.”

One achievement that stands out is a History assignment they completed after missing several lessons. Despite worrying they had not produced their best work, the result surprised them.

“I had to do a lot of research in a short amount of time and didn’t think I’d done very well, but I achieved a Distinction. That made me realise I was capable of more than I thought.”

The Access to Humanities and Teaching course has equipped Quinn with the academic knowledge, study skills and confidence needed to progress to university. More importantly, it has reinforced that taking a different route into Higher Education can be just as rewarding.

In September, Quinn will begin a BA (Hons) History degree at the University of Exeter’s Penryn Campus and is already considering postgraduate study in the future.

Looking back, Quinn encourages anyone thinking about an Access course not to let self-doubt hold them back.

“My advice is to pace yourself, manage your time and show up to your lessons. Don’t worry too much. If you make the effort, you’ll learn everything you need along the way and the support is there to help you succeed.”

For Quinn, returning to education has been about more than achieving excellent results. It has been about believing in themselves, discovering what they are capable of and taking confident steps towards a future they are excited about.