Mackenzie Dancer - Foundation Degree in Business Management & Communications

I was always told throughout my entire school life that I was “not an academic person”. I really believed it and always took the easier option. I took lower exam papers in everything and gave up if things got difficult. I took business A-level in sixth form and didn’t get past the first term running out the door screaming “I’m not academic!” I was so sure studying was not for me I refused to go to any open days or talks on further education. I remember arguing with my mum and teacher that it would be a waste of time and completely pointless for someone like me to go to university.

I travelled around a bit. I worked as a waitress, barista and bar maid until I got a job in an office as a customer service adviser.  It was about three years after leaving education and working a dull job every day when I thought there has to be more than this. I felt as if my brain was turning to mush and I wanted a challenge. It was then I started looking into the foundation courses Brookes offer.

Giving up work was not an option for me. A full time course, one day a week for three years seemed ideal. I was so nervous going back into education and was pretty certain I’d fail, but I sucked it up and figured I had nothing lose. What has happened since continues to surprise me on a daily basis. I haven’t failed anything (so far) and am actually doing much better than I ever thought I was capable of. I haven’t run away and have even signed up to third year.

I also have the course to thank for my career change. I thought I would be happy working any old 9-5 office job. In first year I discovered I love communications and so I started setting my ambitions much higher. The Brookes career service told me I’d be an ideal Community Fundraiser. I took the plunge and haven’t looked back since. I now work as a fundraiser in for the mental health charity Restore and love every minute of it.

I have changed my entire opinion of myself. I’m more confident and more skilled. I couldn’t recommend it enough. I’m doing a job I would not have even dreamed of applying for before. A massive thank you to all my lectures especially the incredible Rebecca Philbrook, who has helped me so much throughout these two years. I’ve come such a long way since dropping out of business studies I can’t thank you all enough.