Anybody can do it as long as they have the proper support in place

Why did you choose to study a degree with a foundation year at Sheffield?

“I’ve always wanted to do speech and language therapy - it’s always been in my heart and mind - but I didn’t know if I could because of my age and qualifications. 

I also had a stammer which I wanted to learn more about. I didn’t get any support with my stammer until I was a student here, so I was interested in helping other people in my situation.”

What had you been doing prior to coming to the University of Sheffield?

“Prior to the Foundation Year I volunteered with a few different charitable organisations, supporting people with dementia and children with learning disabilities. 

“I went through a few different channels to get myself ready for university, including going to the University Open Day, doing the Discover course, and taking a tour of the campus. I also took my GCSEs to make sure I had the right grades. All these things helped me meet the requirements of the Foundation Year.”

How did the Foundation Year programme help prepare you for your degree?

“I left education over 15 years ago, so the Foundation Year was a good stepping stone into university.

“It helped me develop my maths, as well as my confidence with using computers. I also learnt how to write academic work, give presentations or study in groups. I was able to meet other students like myself and form a good group of friends.

“I didn’t know initially how to navigate academic study but the Foundation Year really helped me to understand the university systems as well as all the different types of assessment I should expect - whether that’s a proper exam, a presentation, or an essay or assignment. These are all things I didn’t have any idea about before the Foundation Year.”

What are you enjoying most about the Speech and Language Therapy degree? Is there anything you’re looking forward to?

“The placements have been quite good because I’ve been able to sharpen my skills in terms of giving out appropriate therapy to adults or children, under the guidance of my practice educator."

The support has been good too. The Disability and Dyslexia Service helped me put a support plan in place which has enabled me and my practice educator to set expectations while I’m on placement.

Kemisola Agbeniyi

Student, Speech and Language Therapy with Foundation Year

“I’m looking forward to doing a stammering placement later on in the course. I went to STAMMAFest in Northampton earlier this year and it was quite amazing to see other stammerers like myself in one space with nobody judging. It was quite a good feeling and I got to understand how to hone it, and not be afraid to speak.”

What advice would you give to mature students considering returning to education?

“Go for it, be open about it and prepare yourself. You shouldn’t limit yourself because anybody can do it as long as they have the proper support in place. As long as you discuss it with your academic tutor or your lecturers or StudySkills@Sheffield they can help you to stay on track. They are very, very helpful.”