'I had been at college since I was fourteen going off to university seemed like a big jump. I knew I'd be more comfortable staying at Chesterfield to study, having done my foundation degree there. I found there was another route with a top-up at Sheffield Hallam, in partnership with my college. Hallam offered the top-up route I needed, and the particular course I was interested in.

'My degree involved one day of college per week – the rest of the time I worked independently. 'The course provided the knowledge and practical ability that I need for working in the IT industry. Now, I'm ready to talk with IT professionals and develop my skills.

'It's been quite a journey'.