Childhood dream comes true for Hastings student

Published March 2013

Hastings was always the first choice for Emma-Louise and it helped her realise her childhood dream.

“I always knew I wanted to go to university and having one on my doorstop made the decision even easier. The Hastings campus offers a great variety of courses which are just as good as the larger universities. To stay local was not just convenient; it also saved me from large amounts of debt.”

Emma-Louise studied Sociology and English Literature in Hastings and after graduating with First Class BA (Hons) decided to continue her studies with the University of Brighton and train as a teacher.

“I always wanted to be a teacher since I was a little girl. I would always play 'teachers' with my teddies and often make my little brother join in too! I've always had a passion for working with young people and I just always felt that teaching was a natural career choice for me. Teaching is a job where you do something different everyday and that's what made it appeal to me.”

Despite not yet completing her course Emma-Louise has already realised her childhood dream – her first ever full-time post interview has resulted in a teaching job at Hastings Academy.

“In September this year I will be Teacher of English to pupils aged between 11 and 16. I’m already at Hastings Academy on my final PGCE placement which means I can get to know the students and staff before I officially start.”

Emma-Louise is a great example to show that staying local doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your dreams. 

“I'd say that people should definitely give University a go. For some people moving away from home isn't an option for them and the Hastings campus offers a great solution. Going to university opens up so many more opportunities for you; it's a place where you can discover who you are and what you want to do with your life. At times it is challenging, but overall it's an exciting and enriching experience.”

Find out more about the courses available at University of Brighton in Hastings.