Rahima Begum

Having graduated from our Education Studies programme in 2019, Rahima has gone on to a successful teaching career in her former Secondary School. Equipped with theoretical backing and placement experience, Rahima is making a positive impact in her community as a former Education Studies student, a course with a 100% Student Satisfaction Rating (NSS, 2021).

What brought you to Education Studies?

I have always known that I wanted to work in the field of Education. After completing my A levels, I decided to go ahead and apply for the Education Studies course. I started researching different universities in London that offered an Education Studies course, and my interest and attention was drawn to the University of Cumbria. The university had a range of facilities and resources to offer, it was also ranked as one of the top ten universities in London to offer this course which confirmed my decision to apply. 

Why did you choose Education Studies at Cumbria? 

When I first applied for the course, I was not entirely sure which part of the Education field I wanted to work in, thus the choice to study the Education Studies programme. I knew that the course would provide opportunities to gain a wide range of experience in several educational settings and open many possible career paths. This intrigued me. Another reason for making my decision to study at the University of Cumbria in London was its location, it was very close and convenient as it was only a half an hour's journey from home. 

What was the biggest barrier you experienced, and how did you overcome it? 

Being able to meet assignment deadlines whilst working part-time was a challenge however I ensured that I organised my time effectively to overcome this challenge. I was able to do this by creating a ‘to-do’ list; setting personal deadlines and targets; seeking advice from lecturers, and; maintaining a positive attitude. Maintaining high levels of motivation, dedication and positivity was not always easy but the support from lecturers and colleagues at both university and placements always helped. The facilities available at the university, such as the library and prayer room, were useful as I was able to have a quiet place to study in, focus and complete assignments to the highest standards.

How did your university experience shape your next steps? 

Going to university has helped me learn and develop many skills, including time management, organisational, communication and team working skills. Once I had developed these skills during the first year of university the remaining two years went by smoothly. I was able to effectively manage time between attending university, meeting deadlines, part-time work and other personal responsibilities. I can definitely say that the lecturers at the University of Cumbria provided me with the support and motivation to be able to succeed and eventually graduate with a First Class Honours.

"The University of Cumbria in London will always have a special place in my heart, as this is where my love and passion for teaching began. I would recommend the university to anyone interested in studying Education Studies."

What's your advice for future students? 

For anyone thinking of going to university, I would advise you to do your research before choosing the university you would like to go to! It is not always the case of the most well-known universities providing the best experiences, there are other universities out there, just like the University of Cumbria which provide valuable learning experiences, and it is just the case of widening your search. It is also crucial to ensure that you are passionate about the course that you want to study, having the passion and dedication for a course will ensure that you are focused, driven and motivated from the get-go, ultimately leading you to successfully begin your career.

Where are you now, and how did we help get you there? 

Studying at the University of Cumbria definitely contributed to the widening of my skill set. The university provided opportunities to deliver presentations and complete placements which enabled me to adopt effective strategies, all of which I now use within my own pedagogy. The most valuable part of studying at the University of Cumbria was the support and motivation I received from my tutors and lecturers. Without the one to one support and guidance, it would have been very difficult to get through the three years, so I am very thankful and appreciative to have had this wonderful experience at the university.

I am now a qualified English teacher in my 2nd year of teaching, teaching at a Secondary School where I once was a student. I am honoured to return to my very own secondary school after so many years, and to give back to the community at the school. I can confidently say that this was all possible due to my positive experiences at the University of Cumbria.

Being able to graduate with a First Class Honours alongside experience in Primary and Secondary schools as well as museums opened many doors for me. After graduating I was able to apply to a PGCE Secondary English course, complete my teacher training and gain my QTS. The University of Cumbria in London will always have a special place in my heart, as this is where my love and passion for teaching began. I would recommend the university to anyone interested in studying Education Studies.

Explore your next steps on a course with a 100% Student Satisfaction Rating (NSS, 2021) 

Head to our Education Studies course hub to discover the programme, or get in touch on 01228 588 588.