Hannah Ritchie

Hannah Ritchie, a dedicated Criminology student, shares the highs and lows of her transformative journey in the field of criminology.

What brought you to the University of Cumbria?

I'm originally from Cumbria, and while I applied to Northumbria as my second choice, I ultimately had offers from both on results day. I chose to stay in Cumbria so I wouldn’t have to move away. Another reason for my decision was that, after previewing the courses online, I found that the modules at Cumbria aligned more closely with sociological theories compared to other universities. This was more attractive to me because I'd studied sociology before, so it was familiar.

What’s been the most difficult obstacle you’ve overcome in your education journey so far?

Not comparing my education journey to those of other people on my course. It can be really easy when you're getting grades back from assignments, or in the lead up to submission day when you're all frantically trying to reach the word count, to be drawn into the pressures. I would stress myself out when people were ahead of me or knew answers to questions that I didn't know. It constantly made me feel behind. It's very hard to do, but I ended up just staying in my lane and, to some degree, blocking off conversations about assessments and things that I knew would lead to me comparing myself to others.  

Ultimately, it's my educational journey, and we'll each cross the bridge at different times. The extra pressure to 'keep up' was something I learned to deal with. 

What was the breakthrough moment for you when things began to fall into place?

Getting my first ever assignment grade back. In secondary school I was a very C/B grade student. Not too bad, but not the best either. When I realised that university was all about independence, I was able to kind of let my brain go wild – it turned out I wasn't an average student after all! When you are put in an environment that allows you to flourish to your best potential, you'll see the benefits. 

When I totalled up my end of year grades in first year and saw what I'd achieved, I got so upset because I finally felt, for once in my life, that I'd done myself proud. All the late nights and second-guessing if I was good enough to be at uni paid off, and I could finally sit back and feel motivated about where I wanted to take my life now. 

How have you found studying at the University of Cumbria?

I'm a lover of independent study so I've absolutely loved it. The Learning Gateway, which is open 24 hours a day, is a lifesaver. In first year, I would go in on a Saturday and Sunday and just spend the day in the peace and quiet. Just knowing there is a space that is open for you to study at a time that works best for you is amazing! 

The lectures are small... this is second-to-none. The one-to-one help you get is amazing. The lecturers get to know you personally and can instantly tell if you look confused and want extra guidance. Plus, the real-world experience my lecturers bring to class is fantastic.

What skills are you learning that will help you on your educational journey?

I learned, very recently, how to write an academic policy report. I would love to go into policy writing or reporting/research, and this year's assessment has allowed me to test my skills in an environment where there are academics (some of whom have been policy writers before) who can give me guidance. 

How is university life beyond your studies?

In first year, I really struggled balancing my education and social life. This year, I tried harder to make connections with people on my course and came out of my shell a bit more. I have realised that you can juggle both, but you need to be careful and have a healthy balance. 

If you're travelling onto campus, even just for a short one-hour lecture, try and plan your day the night before. I would say "right, I'm going to get up at 8 and then I have two hours before my lecture to do my reading". By planning your time, you don’t feel like you're wasting money or time travelling in, and once you're at uni, you can stay and just crack out a bit more work or reading, so your time is well spent. 

What are your top tips for people looking to do the same course as you? 

Honestly... if you're not sure, just do it. I was very worried that this wouldn't be the right thing for me because nobody in my family had ever been to university before. Most of my family members don’t understand why you need a degree as they are from manual labour backgrounds (being from Cumbria). But believe in yourself – it won't just give you a degree... it genuinely gives you so much more.  

It gave me the confidence to speak up for others, create connections with lecturers, and build relationships with their networks. It gave me the urge to start being a volunteer and I found my first volunteer role through the uni! I also met some lovely girls from the same course and established a society, something I never would have dreamed I'd do.  

Don't let previous grades knock you down, take it as a fresh start. And if, like me, you are a quiet, independent person who pushes themselves and can keep track of yourself, then this will be the best decision you will make. 

University has given me so much confidence that I am capable, I am good enough, and that I am smart despite what my secondary school thought I couldn't do. 

Is there anything else you'd like to add?

I can't thank the University of Cumbria enough for the person it has made me. My partner has commented about the change in my personality, and I've got the passion and motivation back that work and school took from me.

If Hannah's story has inspired you, take a look at our Criminology programmes.