Graduate Blog: Sarah, HNC Social Services
We spoke to graduate Sarah about her learn local experience and why physical illness and ADHD doesn’t have to be a barrier when it comes to learning.
Hi Sarah, can you start by telling us a bit about yourself?
I'm Sarah and I studied the HNC Social Services course where I undertook a 60 day placement as part of my course which was supported by SVQ assessors.
What made you apply and why was the HNC right for you?
I choose UHI Moray as it was closer to home and I had heard that it has a good support system for people with additional needs. The course was right for me because I have always wanted to help people and from a young age had an interest in social work as they had played a part in my life when I was younger as my parents fostered children.
How did you find the support your recieved during your studies?
I can’t fault the tutors and lectures one bit. I felt heard, listened to and supported to learn in a way that suited me and my ADHD all the way through. I feel the in person classes were a place to have discussions and help me see things in a different way. They helped me get knowledge from my fellow class mates that were in different placements as to how to adapt and the lectures, and the SVQ assessors were friendly, approachable and had our best interest at heart. When I needed something explained or talked over they made time to ensure that I understood, they gave me time when needed due to illness and checked in on me. I wouldn’t have been able to achieve all that I have without the support from everyone. I really felt like they went above and beyond.
How do you feel this course has developed your knowledge, skills and overall exerience?
Since starting the course I feel like I have gained knowledge in academic and reflective writing, how to read and follow out care plans. I understand how society has changed over the years and how people may be affected by it. From the varied classes I have gained an awareness of how individuals have rights and legislation in place to protect and enable them to have a better quality of life whilst having choice and control, developmentally different situations, upbringing, religion, beliefs etc can play a part on how you are as an adult or why you maybe acting in a certain way. I feel like I have gained skills in communication and self awareness, leadership and understanding of neurodiversity as well as having insight into the care system and how it works for people of all ages.
Most of all I have learnt that I am more capable that I realise and that having a physical illness and ADHD doesn’t have to be a barrier when it comes to learning.
Where would you like to go with your career in the future?
I am not currently employed but have applied to study further in September due to the positive experience I have had this year. I would like to take it down the counselling and support route specifically with children.
What are the highlights of studying at UHI Moray?
People believing in me and seeing the potential when I didn’t – the lectures and staff were so help full and wanted us all to succeed. I have made some amazing friends that I wouldn’t have met in any other walk of life and feel like it has given me a confidence that want there before.
Lastly, what advice would you give to anyone considering studying at UHI Moray?
You always have transferable life skills, even if you don’t think you have the right qualifications, you may have something else that they are looking for so don’t right yourself off without exploring your choices. I got onto my course because I had relevant experience that gave me empathy and understanding, I would have previously thought I wouldn’t get in.
A benefit of our HNC Social Services course is a 60 day work placement which gives you the opportunity to complete three units from our SVQ Social Services and Healthcare (SCQF level 9).
Whether you choose to study part-time (1 day per week) or full-time (3 days per week), there are lots of paths you can take to reach a career that you love
Want to share your story? Get in touch: marketing.moray@uhi.ac.uk