A mature student graduating this week has credited the University's Pathway Programme with helping her change career.
Kate Vokes had worked in the housing sector for some 15 years but was always drawn to the field of healthcare.
Not knowing where to start, Kate attended a Cardiff University open day and found out about the Pathway Programme, a part-time course for adults who want to return to education.
Here, Kate talks about her experience on the Pathway to a degree in Healthcare, which laid the foundation for her to study Occupational Therapy.
"I worked in social housing for over 15 years," said Kate, "and was always drawn to the impact that good or poor housing could have on a person's mental and physical well-being. I quickly became aware of the impact of Occupational Therapy and I spent a day shadowing an Occupational Therapist on a new housing development. I knew immediately that this is what I wanted to do.
"I didn't know where to start - I'd been out of formal education for over 10 years - but after attending an open day at Cardiff University the Pathway Programme was recommended and it seemed like a great introduction into returning to higher education.
"Being dyslexic I had previously struggled with academic work and felt that further study was not for me but I was able to receive support for my learning needs at Cardiff University in an appropriate manner which made a world of difference. The Pathway also helped me really focus on what I wanted to do - which helped with anxiety when handing my notice in."
Through the Pathway Programme my confidence in my ability has grown. It was nice to start believing that even after not being in education for years I was able to regain my love of learning. I will now actively look out for books on health to read for my own enjoyment.
Following her Pathway Programme, Kate decided to embark on an undergraduate degree in Occupational Therapy at Cardiff University.
Kate said: "The Pathway also supported me with my application for a degree. They helped with finances and provided opportunities to meet the admissions staff which was reassuring - I could ask as many questions as I wished about the degree course before applying.
"To anyone thinking about the Healthcare Pathway Programme, I would say DO IT!! It's a great introduction to working in healthcare. Or, if you're considering further education it's a stepping stone if you decide to take it further. For me, it was a taster to help decide if I wished to have a career change before committing which was reassuring. I also got to make friends with other students who were in a similar position."
You are only as old as you feel. I thought I was too old to consider a new career but I am so thankful for attending the Pathway.
