Julie Wells

What was your overall experience like during your studies?

My experience was really good with my particular highlights being the tutors and the friendships that I made.

Were there any specific modules, projects, or experiences that particularly stood out or shaped you?

I enjoyed my final research project as it involved a degree of lab work and reporting on the findings and linking all of this to a real life situation and relevant research.

Did you face any challenges in accessing higher education, or during your studies, and if so, how did you overcome them?

My dad passed away just as I was about to start my final year which actually made me consider not to continue as this was a really difficult time for me. However, with the support from my tutors I decided to complete and I am so glad that I did.

What support, if any, did you receive from University Centre Leeds that was particularly helpful?

I had support all the way through the course particularly for the academic skills required to work at higher education level. There was also lots of support relating to my individual  circumstances and a real understanding of me working full time and raising three young children while trying to study.

What advice would you give to your younger self, just starting out at University Centre Leeds?

To embrace the opportunities a little more that were open to me. Some of this was limited due to my very busy home life but I wish I had involved myself a little more.

Post-Graduation Path and Achievements

What was your immediate path after leaving University Centre Leeds?

Employment as a science technician in a local secondary school alongside a temporary student support role for students on the same degree course at UC that I had just compled.

I then went on to complete my PGCE in Secondary with Biology

Could you describe your current role or what your are currently doing?

I am a Programme Manager for Access to HE at Keighley College which is where i studied my Access Course the year before my degree.

What have been some of your proudest achievements or milestones since graduating?

Completing my teaching qualifications and securing my first teaching role.

Being accepted on The Masters in Education programme at Leeds Trinity.

Accepting invitations to speak at conferences about the journey and experiences to Access to HE

How do you feel your education at University Centre Leeds prepared you for your career or your current path?

I often model my teaching style and management of my learners on my tutors from my degree programme.

Have there been any unexpected turns or significant learning experiences in your journey since graduating?

I feel the biggest learning experience was teaching throughout the pandemic and adjusting methods of teaching to ensure success for all learners when locked down at home

What are your future aspirations or goals?

To use my findings from my Masters study to help support more Access to HE learners and provide the necessary guidance and pastoral support.

Inspirational Message & Impact

What message or piece of advice would you most want to share with the current and prospective University Centre Leeds students to inspire them?

Be open to learning new things and apply yourself to learning. Ensure your attendance is spot on as attendance equals achievement.

What do you believe is the most important quality or mindset for students to cultivate to succeed, both during their studies and beyond?

Be inquisitive and ask questions. Don't always accept what you read  or you are told, do your own research.

Why do you think it's important for alumni to share their stories with current students?

To show other students that people like myself from ordinary backgrounds can study at degree level and achieve success.

Can you provide a short, impactful quote that encapsulates your journey or your key message for students?

I doubted myself often, but with each step I proved I was stronger than I knew.