For a number of years I had been wanting to return to formal learning as things did not go to plan the first time round when I was in high school. I left at the age of 13 as a result I carry no traditional qualifications apart from life experience. I started to search the internet to see how I could better myself knowing that enhancing my education was the way forward for me.
Throughout my search I came across the Go Higher programme on the University of Liverpool website and it stated, “No traditional qualifications needed.” I knew within that I had found what I had been looking for yet I still held fear within me as I had been out of education for over 20 years.
After gaining the courage to apply and being totally honest on the application form declaring that I had no qualifications, I couldn’t help but doubt myself and felt I wouldn’t be good enough to be able to be accepted.
A couple of weeks went by – and when I received the email from Go Higher I was excited that my application had been considered and I had been invited for an interview. However my doubts resurfaced – yet as nervous as I was, the whole interview process was very smooth and the panel of interviewers were very helpful and understanding considering my educational background which had played heavily on my mind. Two days later I received an email from GoHigher stating that my application had been successful and that I would be starting the GoHigher programme in September.
I am now five months into the Go Higher programme and loving it. I find myself using quotes from the books that we have read or from the lectures we have had in my everyday life. It really has opened a new part of me, a part of me that I didn’t realise was there. Writing essays and creating reports have been challenging at times but at the same time they have been great fun and very educational. You will be surprised how much information you can take on board when you’re wanting to learn.
The lecturers on the GoHigher programme are very helpful and supportive and are always at hand to help you in any way they can. The same can also be said about the students who are studying on the Go Higher programme, each of us have enjoyed supporting each other and you will probably find friends for life during your time on the Go Higher programme, I know I certainly have. I have enjoyed meeting lots of great people from all different walks of life and ages who are also on the Go Higher programme and who were in a similar position as myself.
If you’re wanting to further your education then look no further as the Go Higher programme is a very supportive programme and will help you to achieve your goals in furthering your education.
Danial is planning to begin a degree in Philosophy at the University of Liverpool in September.
The picture is the Go Higher students 2015-16, celebrating Xmas 2015.
