Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Stories
Alumni Spotlight: Parenting whilst pursuing a postgrad degree
International graduate Flore, from Senegal, talks about what her journey studying MA Peace and Development at Leeds Beckett was like and the advice she would give to those thinking about pursuing a postgraduate degree.
Stories
What were you doing before becoming a postgraduate student?
I was working at the Covid-19 Vaccination Centre, then found a job in a charity as Integration Case Worker for migrants.
What reasons motivated you to consider studying a postgraduate course?
I completed my undergraduate in Business, Enterprise and Management and felt it was really what I wanted. I volunteered at refugee education training and advice centre for a year and a half, and as a refugee myself, I felt I needed to know and do more in this field.
Why did you choose to study your postgraduate degree at Leeds Beckett University?
I chose to study my postgraduate degree at Leeds Beckett University because the institution offered a range of courses I was interested in. In addition, I attended a information and guidance online session for postgraduate courses and thought it was a good idea to help students pick a path. Also the commute distance was convenient for me.
What were the challenges or obstacles you had to overcome to become a postgraduate student?
Being a lone parent was a massive challenge. I had to juggle parenting work and uni life and almost gave up. However, my Project Supervisor was very supportive, understood my situation and gave me more time to complete my dissertation.
How would you describe your experience as a postgraduate student and what was the highlight?
My postgraduate year was my best year at university. I performed better than in my undergraduate years. Lectures and seminars were lively, interactive, informative and extremely enjoyable. Lecturers were always available to help and to provide guidance and materials to successfully complete the course in addition, feedback was of great help.
I am very passionate about charitable work, ending wars, furthering development in developing countries and my course helped me to have valuable insight into peace and development in these countries. I am even thinking of undertaking a PhD in this field.
How would you describe the University's facilities, teaching staff and employability and support services?
Teaching staff is excellent. Big thanks to John, Maria and Rachel, their modules helped me build confidence to speak in public. Their modules also developed my critical thinking and helped me to work harder.
Also being able to get or book library materials and books online was great otherwise it would feel nearly impossible to find a book one needs.
What role did your fellow students play in your experience at Leeds Beckett?
The diverse background of students made the course more interesting. Fellow students sharing their experience and realities from their home country in relation to the course provide more insight to the course as well as making courses lively.
Did you receive any support from the university, before, during, or after your course, and how did it help you?
I received a laptop and hardship support fund during the course. I needed a laptop to do my assignments from home as the one I had was broken and so I could work while watching my child, which was a big help. The financial helped to relieve stress, making it easier to focus on my studies. I also intend to get in touch with the university to get guidance for a PhD course.
How has postgraduate study benefitted your career? What impact have you experienced after your course?
My course study enhanced my knowledge of the refugee environment and rights, helping me to provide an outstanding service.
I feel more confident in applying for high skilled roles.
Would you recommend postgraduate study at Leeds Beckett? Please explain.
I would recommend postgraduate study at Leeds Beckett for the quality of teaching and the availability of lecturers to provide additional support to students.
How would you describe your postgraduate experience in five words?
- Amazing
- Informative
- Inspirational
- Knowledge
- Career-focussed
What advice would you give to someone considering postgraduate study at Leeds Beckett?
I would say:
Do not hesitate. Go ahead.