Sarah

Hi, I’m Sarah! I’m currently studying psychology, with a particular interest in working with neurodivergent children. Originally from East London, I moved to Birmingham 20 years ago and now have two wonderful boys, aged 13 and 15.

What motivated you to study this course?

The desire to study psychology has always been there, but life’s responsibilities made it difficult. In my late teens, I couldn’t pursue it due to logistical barriers. When I first looked at university options, many were just too far away or didn’t feel right. Eventually, I found a place at a university but had to let it go due to the timing. Once my kids were a bit older, I knew it was finally the right time to come back to my studies.

Did you have any concerns or barriers when thinking about joining your course, and how did the university help you?

After being away from education for over 20 years, I was concerned that I might have lost the skills needed to succeed academically. It felt overwhelming to think about returning to study after such a long break. But the foundation year at Birmingham Newman was exactly what I needed. It eased me into academic life step by step. Through structured activities and a focus on themes and frank discussions, I was able to reignite my ability to learn.

The University didn’t throw me into a full university year straight away, which was key to easing the transition. Instead, I felt supported every step of the way. For anyone returning to education after a long gap, I can’t recommend the foundation year enough!

What aspect of the course do you enjoy the most?

The most enjoyable part of the course for me has been the lectures. The lecturers are approachable and engaging, and I appreciate the breaks in between classes. These breaks give me the time to process and reflect on what I’ve learned, which really helps with retention. Another thing I love is that the lectures are recorded and uploaded to Moodle. This feature is a lifesaver since I can always go back and review the material if I need to refresh my memory.

How are you finding your tutors, and the university in general?

The tutors at Birmingham Newman University have been fantastic. They are all very approachable and always make time to speak with students, whether it’s about academic concerns or anything else. They’re happy to go over material multiple times if needed, which makes a huge difference when you’re trying to grasp complex concepts.What stands out to me is the university’s approach to treating students as adults. Despite being in education, you’re not treated like a child. You’re given respect and the independence to manage your own studies, but with plenty of support available when you need it. Both academically and pastorally, the support I’ve received has been amazing, and I truly feel nurtured throughout my time here.

What advice would you give anyone considering studying your course at Birmingham Newman?

If you’re considering studying psychology at Birmingham Newman, my advice would be to visit the campus, take a look around, and speak to the foundation year team and tutors. Get a feel for the environment and see if it’s the right fit for you. I chose Birmingham Newman University because of its welcoming, local, and tight-knit community. It felt warm and inviting and the environment just felt like somewhere I could truly settle in, and that’s been important to me throughout my studies