English Teacher, Yavneh Academy
PGCE Secondary English, 2011
What made you choose Middlesex University?
At the interview, the course leader was so warm, welcoming and personable I knew that this was the place for me. Furthermore the small course intake really appealed to me, as I knew this meant I could get a more personal, valuable experience.
What attracted you to your course and made you apply?
Having worked in publishing for three years, I recognised that I wanted to teach literature and language, rather than just read it. I was so excited and inspired, and wanted to pass that on to others.
What aspects of your course did you enjoy most?
I really enjoyed the University experience. Being back in a classroom and having a student experience and mixing with other students was brilliant. It meant that I felt supported throughout, and was able to speak to people who understood exactly what I was going through.
What is your fondest memory of life at Middlesex?
Upon completing the course all of the cohort including our course leader attended a BBQ at one of the student's homes. It was so nice to realise that each and every one of us had passed the course and were entering a new path in our lives. We had achieved it together and that meant a lot.
What one piece of advice would you give to a prospective student interested in studying at Middlesex?
The course tutor and lecturers are the most important aspect to get right. Everything else is fixable, but make sure you connect with and meet your tutor as they will be the people who really make the experience.
How did your course and time at Middlesex help you to get where you are professionally today?
Without it, I could never have become a teacher or experienced a career which I genuinely love.
Why did you choose the career you studied for?
I knew that I needed to focus on my hobbies and achievements, and most of these centred around my love of literature. The career choice was inevitable after that.
What are the pros and cons of working within your professional field?
I love having a job which is constantly changing and requiring innovation and creativity. It means I'm never bored and am continually learning.
How did you get your foot on the career ladder post university?
The second school I went to during the PGCE put me forward for a job at a 'sister' school. They also helped me with my interview preparation and job application. They made the whole experience really manageable and achievable.
What has been your defining career break or highlight to date?
Without a doubt it was being with my GCSE students as they opened their GCSE results. It was just incredible to see all our hard work pay off.
What does the future hold for you?
I hope to become a Head of Department, but that's a long way off for the moment.
What are the top three career tips you would give to current students and recent graduates?
Set realistic mini deadlines in order to achieve ultimate deadlines.
Try out lots of different work experience. Never feel that once you have made a career choice, you can't change it at a later date. There are always transferable skills.
Recognise that being a teacher is never going to make you rich, but it will often make you happy.