Access to HE student now a Lecturer of Health Science at his Former College
Lecturer, Andrew Walker, left University in London where he was studying Film and Theatre. He returned home to North Wales questioning his next steps.
Andrew soon found work in the retail sector. For the next five years, he worked as a Visual Merchandiser for Marks and Spencer.
During this time, Andrew began to consider his future career path. Looking for a change in direction, Andrew started researching and seeking guidance on opportunities in higher education to study mental health nursing.
In September 2005, Andrew applied and was accepted onto the Access to Higher Diploma in Health Science at Llandrillo College, Rhos-on-Sea.
Andrew said: "It wasn't an easy decision for me to return to higher education. I was extremely nervous as it meant giving up a full-time job and moving house.
"However, I received a lot of help and guidance from the lecturers and my personal tutor, Moira Jessup. Being around other students was also reassuring for me during the more difficult parts of the course."
In March 2006, Andrew applied and was accepted onto a degree course at Bangor University to study mental health nursing.
Andrew said:"The Access course benefited me greatly in preparation for the nursing degree – both academically and personally.
"I was prepared for the lessons. I didn’t feel out of my depth.
"I never thought I would ultimately return to the same college I studied at and be lecturing on a very similar course.
"If I was to offer advice to someone who was considering an Access course, I would say don’t be put off if there are any specific subjects you think you would not be any good at.
"Ask yourself what is the worst thing that could happen? There is too much to gain to worry about what you might lose."
Andrew is currently a lecturer in Health and Social Care at Llandrillo College, Rhos-On-Sea.