As part of our Summer 2023 graduation ceremonies, we caught up with a number of our incredible students.
Hearing all about their experience studying with Arden University, as well as what may come next for them, we spoke to students like Charlene, who studied for a BSc (Hons) Health and Care Management with Foundation Year.
Studying full-time through our blended learning approach, Charlene combined her busy home life with studying two days a week.
What was it that made you want to study and work in healthcare management?
Before my studies I was working for a bank, but I was unfortunately made redundant.
I wanted to work in healthcare because of how it was difficult for my niece, who had sepsis. I just felt that the NHS needed people with that extra passion, and because of my personal emotions, I just felt that I was needed in that community. Feeling that drives me to pursue my passion.
What did you enjoy about your course?
My course was really good. The best thing about Arden University was being able to do studying two days a week. I have a family so blended learning was really, really helpful in allowing me to be able to study and be to be a mother of three at the same time.
How did you find juggling those responsibilities?
Don't get me wrong, it was difficult. You've got the modules that you have to do plus, you have to take care of your home, but the tutors were fab.
I had help with out of hours tutoring as well, where I could go in and ask for certain help when I needed it. I also was able to get further help due to finance difficulties as well, because times are hard. As an all round experience, I really enjoyed it, hence why I stayed for the four years.
How does it feel today to be graduating?
It is the best feeling. I've also always wanted to walk across the stage. So it was a bit of proving to myself that I could do it.
I am a mature student. I wanted to do this at an earlier age, but I got stuck through health issues. Because of blended learning I was able to do it now though. I'm one of the happiest people right now. My mom's here to see. My dad, he's not here today, but he's here. My kids can see it. It's a drive for the whole family. My son is 13, and my big daughter, she's also at university.
What advice would you give to anyone that's perhaps in a similar situation to you were a few years ago, and they're not sure whether they'll cope with studying?
You're never too old and it's never too late. With Arden, because they don't look at, you know, they don't look at just your grades, if you are persistent, if you are committed, if you are determined to do what you want to do, then they are there to help.
What do you hope comes next?
£100,000 pounds a year.
No I'm just joking. I'm looking for work right now and I am close. I don't want to burst my bubble at the moment. But I'm getting there.
What do you think makes you ready to be a success in your industry?
I think it's just me being me. I've got my degree now, but it is not what you have it's what you do with it. I could go home and put the degree down and just sit down, but I'm not going to do that. I've got my kids who look up to me, so it's about keeping on going now.
Find out how you could be graduating with a degree from Arden University by visiting our course pages today
