Name: Chelsea
Hometown: Camborne
Courses studied: FdA Children and Young Peoples Workforce followed by BA (Hons) Human Behavioural Studies
Job title: Student Support Advisor at FxPlus (Falmouth and Exeter University)
Chelsea, from Camborne, studied at Camborne Science and International Academy for both her GCSEs and A Levels before setting her sights on university. However, due to personal circumstances Chelsea needed to study close to home. She chose to study the FdA Children and Young People’s Workforce, followed by a BA (Hons) Human Behavioural Studies top up at the University Centre Truro and Penwith, explaining: “I had heard great things about the University Centre and was intrigued by the smaller class sizes.”
She found the smaller class sizes and diverse student body enhanced her experience on the course. Chelsea said: “Class sizes were small, but not too small. The size enabled us to have frequent academic discussions which I feel were invaluable to our learning and development.
“I loved how there was such an array of ages, from all different walks of life and employment sectors, I really enjoyed the frequent discussions we were encouraged to have.”
The University Centre’s excellent student support network meant that despite facing significant challenges with mental health and family commitments during her degree, Chelsea was able to access the resources she needed to continue her course.
“Without the support of my tutor, Alison, and Student Support Advisor, Kelli, I would not have completed the degree. The academic and support teams provided excellent support, feedback, guidance, motivation and encouragement.
The course and university were flexible and enabled me to fit study around my family commitments. The times of my lectures meant that I could also work in the evenings which was great.”
Alongside her studies, Chelsea worked part time as a Community Drug and Alcohol Support Worker.
Knowing she wanted a career in supporting others, Chelsea accessed help from Louise, the University Centre’s Careers and Employability Advisor, explaining: “We discussed options, CV writing and worked on interview skills.”
Upon graduating, Chelsea was awarded the Plymouth Academic Partnership Prize, an award she says, “never in my wildest dreams did I think I would receive”.
Chelsea has now secured a career in Student Support, working for FXPlus (Falmouth and Exeter University), where she provides guidance, assistance and support to university students just like her.
“The course allowed us to explore different psychological perspectives. This gave me a great insight and has enabled me to meet the students with an understanding of where they are coming from.”
Chelsea is now a true advocate for studying locally. She said: “Some would say that studying locally in Cornwall would restrict your prospects. I truly believe this is not true. In fact, studying locally has opened so many doors for me professionally and personally.
“I am truly grateful for the support and opportunities I received whilst studying at the University Centre and would recommend the Centre as a great option for study.”
Her advice for future students is: “Explore the local avenues and opportunities, and network in the relevant field. There will be setbacks, but that is truly a part of the process. The key is to keep moving forward, adapt and grow. My best advice is to stay true to yourself and your goals. With passion and dedication, anything is possible, even in Cornwall!”
