Laura Harry's journey through her education at Swansea University is nothing short of inspiring. Battling personal struggles and overcoming unprecedented challenges, she has emerged victorious with a first-class degree in Education. Laura's story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the unwavering support provided by the university's well-being services.
Laura's academic journey began with the 2020 intake year, marked by the global pandemic. She and her fellow students navigated an entire first year of online learning, missing out on typical university experiences.
In addition to the pandemic-related hurdles, Laura carried a heavy load of personal and health related challenges, including dyslexia and undiagnosed coeliac disease. This led her to switch to a practical assessment-based programme, doubting her capability for traditional academic success.
Despite the odds stacked against her, Laura's determination remained unwavering. Choosing Swansea University for its supportive environment, she embarked on her education degree with hopes of passing, if not excelling.
In the midst of her second year, Laura's mental health concerns prompted her to reach out for help. The university's well-being services swiftly intervened, connecting her with a specialist practitioner and providing crucial mental health support. Laura's academic journey was further bolstered by 1:1 assistance for her dyslexia, enabling her not just to pass her degree, but to excel with upper 2:1s and even 1st class grades.
Laura's third year was a whirlwind of appointments, studies, and personal growth. Supported by the university, the NHS, and her 1:1 mentor, she completed her degree with flying colors, achieving an impressive 80% in her final dissertation, and graduating with a first-class honor. Moreover, Laura's personal circumstances stabilised, and her mental and physical health improved substantially.
With her newfound confidence, Laura set her sights on a master's degree in psychology, with aspirations of becoming an educational psychologist. Her journey continues to blossom as she embraces new opportunities, including job offers and social interactions that once seemed daunting.
Reflecting on her transformative experience at Swansea University, Laura acknowledges the crucial role played by the university's well-being and welfare services. These services became her lifeline during moments of crisis, offering a safety net that allowed her to thrive academically and personally. Laura emphasises that while her studies were punctuated by strikes, lockdowns, and online learning, what truly mattered was the support she received.
Laura tells us:
“I’m not exaggerating here, Swansea university saved my life. The wellbeing and welfare services picked me up when I could no longer stand, they fought for me to get help on the NHS and made sure I had the support I needed to stay in university. The support that Swansea had put in place for me. I will be forever grateful for that.”
As Laura walks away from Swansea University with a first-class degree, she carries with her a profound sense of gratitude. The institution not only provided her with an excellent education but also with the tools and support necessary to overcome immense obstacles. Her journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of education and the dedication of institutions like Swansea University to the success and well-being of their students.
Our aim is to continue to develop Swansea as an inclusive and accessible university. Every student has the right to feel supported during their time at university and we offer a range of options to suit individual needs. We have online resources, services and workshops, support sessions and specialist support for students with long-term difficulties.
If you are looking for health and wellbeing support whilst studying with us at Swansea, please get in touch with the team on wellbeingdisability@swansea.ac.uk.