Chelsea Bedford decided to take her life in a different direction when Covid affected her career. She applied to London Met through Clearing, and is now close to finishing her Business Management and Human Resource Management BA. She gives us some tips on how to tackle university life as a mature student.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I was born and raised in Eastbourne, on the south coast of England.
What brought you to London Met?
I was unfortunately made redundant due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, from a job I loved. I started looking at jobs to apply for and came to the conclusion that I didn’t want a job, just to have a job. So, I decided to do a degree. I found there were limited London universities that offered Business with HR Management, so I called up the Clearing hotline and was offered a spot immediately. Very easy.
What were the challenges and highlights of your work experience?
Being a mature student, I struggled with work/life balance as I was also juggling a job. However, my course leader, Eleni arranged a Zoom call with me at a time convenient for me and helped go through any problems I was encountering and gave sound advice and strong words of encouragement.
How did you find the lecturers?
Throughout this degree I have come across some great lecturers who make the lectures and seminars fun, and get us moving about and interacting. I have found that Eleni, Barry, Katie to name a few are very interactive with the students, which makes learning easier and more interesting.
Tell us about your current role if you’re working now.
I currently work as a receptionist; however this course helped me get a summer internship in HR which was eye opening to the world of HR.
What is your biggest passion in life and where did that passion come from?
My biggest passion in life has been to travel the world. Since this degree and studying sustainability, I want to combine my passion of travel and helping the planet by volunteering in different countries.
What drives you?
I am someone that relies on praise and previous good grades to motivate me, as I want to keep up that same level of work.
What’s next in your career?
This course has opened a whole new area of opportunity and has given me ideas that I may not have thought about. I am currently in the process of applying for HR graduate roles.
What’s your favourite place in London and why?
I have a favourite restaurant, Bancone in Covent garden. Their iconic dish is called ‘Silk Handkerchiefs’ and it is incredible. I also love any park in London, open space and greenery – it's refreshing and calm, which is needed when you live in such a bustling city.
Do you have any advice for anyone else considering studying at London Met?
Get to know your teachers. I have found that building a relationship with them has increased learning, which has led to good grades, and it's easier to talk to them if you need help or advice when needed.
"This course has opened a whole new area of opportunity and has given me ideas that I may not have thought about."