With the 2024 UCAS deadline fast approaching, students at sixth forms and colleges across the UK will be deciding whether university is right for them.
There is plenty to consider before the January 31 deadline. What course do I want to study? Where in the country do I want to be? And, perhaps most important of all, will it be worth it?
For Estelle Nolan and Ella Roberts – two recent graduates from Liverpool Hope University – the answer to that final question is unequivocally yes.
A world of opportunity
Going to university is about much more than the course you study.
There are so many extracurricular activities to get involved in, from sports and societies, to research and study abroad opportunities, all of which are an opportunity to enjoy new life experiences.
English Literature graduate, Estelle, immersed herself in university life, taking on the role of student ambassador via Liverpool Hope’s dedicated on-campus careers service and also participating in a research project during her time as a student.
And, having the chance to broaden both her horizons and skills is what made the university experience so worthwhile and enjoyable.
“You get the opportunity to not only study something you love but meet a wide range of people from the UK and all around the world,” she says.
“I loved being a student ambassador and it gave me great life skills.
“I strengthened my public speaking skills by meeting prospective students and delivering campus tours. This allowed me to develop my confidence by speaking to and delivering campus tours to prospective students.
“I also got involved in Hope’s annual research scholarship. This was a paid opportunity where I worked alongside academics in my subject area on ‘The Childhood of Helen Thomas’, a Liverpool-born writer and wife of poet Edward Thomas.”
Getting industry ready
For Drama and Theatre Studies graduate, Ella, the university provided invaluable career preparation.
She was based at Liverpool Hope’s dedicated Creative Campus and says the state-of-the-art facilities and the connections the School of Creative and Performing Arts has with many of Liverpool’s finest cultural institutions provided opportunities she wouldn’t have had without going to university.
“For subjects with practical elements, like drama, science, sport and law, going to university gives you access to industry-standard equipment that you’d be unlikely to get access to alone,” she explains.
“You also get so many more opportunities and industry contacts.
“As a student, I got to meet with the Artistic Director of the Liverpool Everyman Theatre, as well as the head of Homotopia Festival, who I never would have met by myself.”
Ella now works as a Graduate Advocate at Liverpool Hope, where she is responsible for meeting thousands of students who are interested in attending the University.
Having entered the world of work, she feels the benefits of a university education every day.
“University was incredibly useful for my career,” she adds.
“Although I’m not currently working in the theatre industry, studying drama and theatre helped me improve my public speaking, which is important in my current role.
“I also do a lot of event management, and it’s very similar to directing a play, which I did in my third year. You have to organise the schedule, source supplies and make sure the event goes off without a hitch.”
At home at Hope
Both Ella and Estelle are in agreement that going to university proved to be a positive life decision and believe Liverpool Hope is the perfect place for anyone looking for a warm environment that takes a personal approach to education.
“The environment is extremely friendly and welcoming,” adds Estelle
“You will become part of a great community of staff and students at Hope who will offer an immense amount of support to ensure you have a great university experience.”
Find out more
For further information about Liverpool Hope University and the courses on offer, visit the website.
