Current employer: University of Plymouth
Current job title: Lecturer in Early Childhood Studies
Current location: Devon
“Studying at Plymouth gave me confidence, self-belief, and developed my research skills. It made me see that anything is possible and through hard work, determination, and support I can achieve my goals.”Tell us about your career path since graduation.
Since graduation, my career has changed direction. I was teaching Higher Education(HE) in a Further Education(FE) context which I loved, but I sometimes became frustrated as I felt unable to develop my newly acquired research skills – my Doctorate qualification was not really needed or fully utilised within a college based HE environment. Since graduating, I have secured a lecturing post at the University of Plymouth. This was certainly my aim when I started the Doctorate but I am surprised how quickly this has come to fruition.
What is the most difficult thing which you have faced in your career?
Changing from a college HE environment to a fully encompassing HE environment has been quite a scary transition, but one which I have loved. When you have been in a job for a long time changing direction can be a challenge. However, the Doctorate has shown me that I have skills that I never realised I had! I am now more confident to take risks, and embrace new challenges. When you complete your thesis, the sense of achievement is immense and you realise that anything is possible.
How did studying at Plymouth help you?
Studying at Plymouth gave me confidence, self-belief, and developed my research skills. It made me see that anything is possible and through hard work, determination, and support I can achieve my goals.
What is your favourite memory of studying at Plymouth?
The graduation was such a buzz and a great celebration of five years of hard work. At times I found it hard to believe that I would ever complete my EdD, but the thought of the graduation and achieving my goal kept my going.
Would you recommend undertaking a course with the University, and why?
I would recommend the EdD route to anyone working in a professional capacity who wants to stretch themselves academically and achieve a doctorate level qualification. I chose the EdD at Plymouth as I wanted a friendly but challenging atmosphere in which to pursue my research interests. I could have studied at a university closer to my home, but Plymouth had a unique, supportive, and non-intimidating atmosphere that I hoped would help me to achieve success. I chose the University as I thought the staff would be friendly and supportive and offer me the highest level of challenge and expertise I needed. I was not disappointed.
Is there anything else which you would like to share with our current students?
Gaining a professional educational doctorate is not an easy option but with hard work, support from family, friends and the staff team, it can be possible. Believing in yourself and the subject you are researching plus having a steely determination to persevere and keep going are essential qualities for an EdD student.
