“I attended Northern Regional College after completing my GCSEs with the intention of completing a course in Joinery. After six months I knew it wasn’t for me,” he said.
“Covid-19 presented an opportunity for me to reflect on my journey and what I wanted to do. I knew I wanted to help people and considered changing to a course that reflected my interests.”
Sean then decided to explore his interests in psychology and sociology, applying to the Level 3 Health and Social Care course at the College’s Magherafelt campus.
“The course really interested me and challenged me. I loved it. I knew I wanted to complete a course that would focus on people and their emotions,” he explained.
Afterwards, Sean decided to apply to Ulster University’s Magee campus to study social work.
“I knew that social work was a competitive course to be accepted on to, but I was sure it was what I wanted to do.”
After being accepted onto the course, more news was to come, as Sean also was also awarded Ulster University’s Widening Access Community Scholarship.
When asked if he felt studying at Northern Regional College led to where he is today, Sean said: “One trillion percent. Without a doubt. The College has not only helped me in deciding what route I wanted to go down, it also taught me the basics of independent study which in itself has been vital.
“Social Work is a tough degree to study, but I now have the skills I developed at the College to assist me. My lecturers, Sharon McKenna-Baxter, Anita Stevenson and Eileen Quinn, were brilliant in helping me. They created a learning space that was so welcoming and comfortable and allowed all students who attended to thrive.”
While Sean studied at the College, he had opportunities to complete two block placements in his second year.
“I had the opportunity to work with the College’s special education department. Here, I really grew in confidence and knew that I was doing the right course for me.
“The biggest lesson I learned while on placement was how to communicate effectively with students who had additional needs. I loved my time on placement. It was such a formative experience for me.”
Sean graduated Northern Regional College with 2 Distinctions and a Distinction* and was accepted to study Social Work at Ulster University’s Magee campus.