Amara, who is registered blind, chose her degree after a setback with her original choice of nursing due to her disability.

“This was a very stressful time for me as I was left with a couple of weeks to make a decision as to what course I would like to complete. I had great rapport with my health and social teacher and had discussed my concern. This is when I had a lightbulb moment. She said: “Why don’t you be a counsellor? You're good at talking.” I visited the careers team at my school and gained support to find a suitable counselling course.”

Amara chose Leeds Beckett because of fond memories of sports days at Headingley Campus when she was at school.

“Every year during my time at secondary school, I was invited to a sports day for those living with disability such as visual or hearing impairment. This experience helped me to build appreciation for the university due to how disability friendly it was. Fast forward to sixth form, I visited the careers team at my school and gained support to find a suitable counselling course. Having looked at a few different courses, I came across the one at Leeds Beckett and made the decision to apply as I recalled how much I’d enjoyed visiting.”

Amara said she found the university to be very supportive.

“When I received a place at the university, I went through a needs assessment through an external centre as well as the disability team at Leeds Beckett. This was especially helpful as it meant I received the equipment I needed to be able to access resources that my peers had, but in an accessible format. Additionally, a reasonable adjustment plan was put in place to ensure that my lecturers knew how to support me.”

During her degree, Amara took every opportunity possible.

“I worked as a student community organiser at LBSU where I was given the responsibility to co-chair core team meetings and citizen’s assemblies. As part of this role, I also carried out listening campaigns where I used the interpersonal skills developed from the counselling skill practice modules. Additionally, I received the opportunity to stand for the NUS liberation conference elections; I was nominated and attended this conference. This was a great experience as I delivered a speech about the experiences of international students in front of a large crowd. My experience of chairing the assemblies during my role helped build my confidence and courage to do this.”

Amara says get any experience you can to help you stand out to employers.

“I would totally recommend students work alongside their studies, especially if their course doesn't offer placements. It's important to stand out to employers as the job market is very tight. There are more jobs than people, therefore, I would strongly advise that you take any opportunity you are presented with. I received the opportunity during my role to be part of an interview panel when student services were hiring. This taught me a lot about what employers are looking for. One thing that I took from this is that employers are always looking for examples of previous experience, however, it is crucial you draw a link between the example you are providing and the current position you are applying for.

“There are organisations out there who provide advice on interviews especially for those with disabilities, I would recommend taking advantage of them. When I applied to my role, I used an organisation called Scope who were extremely helpful as they provided tips for interviews. They also provided support during my role.”

She says that Leeds is a great place to study.

“My overall experience at the university as a disabled student was great as I was able to part take in different societies such as the Islamic Society (ISOC). I also had a great social life as there is a lot to do around Leeds; there are a lot of halal food options, there are activities such as bowling in the Merrion centre, which is only a few minutes’ walk from campus. I also enjoyed playing badminton on Headingley campus as there are great sports facilities.

“Overall, I would recommend going to Leeds Beckett especially if you are looking for a great social life. There is a lot to do in the city centre and there is constantly an event to attend or a place to visit with friends.”

Find out more information about studying Counselling and Mental Health.

Find out more about the support available from the disability team.