Help

aconfusedstudent

Hi Everyone,

I am feeling a bit confused about the direction of my life at the moment. As a 'traditional' student, I have the usual collection of GCSEs and A-levels, but was disappointed with my results. Crucially, I don't have a C grade in Maths and Science. My A-levels were mainly vocational and I registered on an English degree in 2008. I've faired reasonably so far, having secured (just) a 2.1 last year, afer retakes. I have always struggled with exams, but feel I have now cracked them. However, I am finding it difficult to move on from my previous disappointing performances and am not sure whether I want to continue with my degree. I have one year to go. This has been a recurring feeling throughout. I feel as though I have been going through the motions, rather than engaging with the material. I am the first in my family to go to University and have two disabilities (hydrocephalus and nystagmus), for which the support is ad hoc. I am also concerned about graduate prospects, as I have no work experience; I didn't envisage working in McDonalds or on the dole. Any advice would be much appreciated. Many thanks

ultimatedingbat

Personally, you are only one year away from completion. I would stick it out and complete your degree. A 2:1 degree is nothing to be snuffed.

In terms of your GCSE's, why not retake those post degree? My boyfriend is 25 and is just going back to school to retake his english and maths GCSE's.

Why do i say stick it out? REmember if you drop out now you only get 2 more years of funding meaning if you decide to go back for another degree you'll have to fund first year yourself.

MrsManda

Definitely stick it out for this year, you've managed so far and a 2.1 is a good degree mark.

Though you said you don't have any work experience, you don't mention whether you are doing anything outside your studies.
If you can organise your time, it is worth doing something. Your university will have a voluntary services unit offering one off and long term voluntary opportunities. Sign up to their newsletter/look at their website and you may find some opportunities for you to gain experience.

As you are in your final year I wouldn't suggest getting involved in something which requires regular commitment but even giving up the occassional saturday or an evening to help out on a charity stall or do a charity bucket collection would give you the opportunity to improve your CV, give you some confidence back, and it's also a great way to make friends whilst doing something good

Also make sure you contact the university careers service to get advice on what you can do after your degree. Having a goal to aim for after graduation will help you focus on your future rather than being stuck on your past grades.

I have Hydrocephalus too, if you'd like to chat just pm me Good luck

Oldernotwiser

If you're concerned about graduate prospects, you should be even more concerned about your prospects if you drop out part way through your degree! Sorry for being blunt.