The mum-of-three is now off to study biomedical science at university after acing her studies at Redcar and Cleveland College.
Reading up on the covid pandemic proved an eye-opener for Guisborough mum-of-three Emma.
It sparked an “obsession for microorganisms” that the 41-year-old didn’t see coming.
Now with her sights set on a future career in the NHS labs, Emma has secured her place to study biomedical science at Teesside University.
It’s a big change in direction for the jewellery-maker and full-time mum, who said: “I am overwhelmed with excitement, and I can’t wait to get started.”
After leaving school at 16, Emma explained how she remembers having no idea which direction to take. Even up until recent years, she said: “When it came to education and a career, I had never really found my passion.”
She spent a few years making jewellery before eventually going on to become a full-time mum.
It is only now, at 41, that choosing to study the Access to Higher Education in Health at Redcar and Cleveland College helped her truly find her calling.
For Emma it was the pandemic that triggered her interest in returning to the classroom and reading up on the detail of the virus sparked an unexpected fascination.
“I became obsessed with microorganisms,” she said. “During covid I did a lot of research into viruses and bacteria, and I became obsessed with the science of it all.”
Having an allotment where she likes to go to unwind, she explained: “It was something I was already interested in, as you have to feed the microorganisms in the soil.”
But, despite an initial interest, she admitted this was a rabbit hole she wasn’t expecting to fall down.
Studying distance learning courses in English and maths with Redcar and Cleveland College, got Emma back into the way of learning.
And this year the access to higher education course offered a direct route to university.
“It has been quite challenging at times, but I have loved it,” she said. “It is something I wanted to do and am fascinated by, so that helps make all the difference.”
Now with her sights set on a future career working in the NHS labs, she said: “As a single parent with three kids, it feels like I have spent a long time not doing things for myself, so now I can’t wait to get started.”
Reflecting on her time as an adult student at the college, she added: “I have had tremendous support from all my tutors.” She aced the class with a string of distinctions.
As for her children, now nine, seven and three, she said: “I feel like it is setting a good example for them. Seeing me work towards my goal is teaching them that if you want something you have to work hard for it.”
Are you looking for a change in direction or want to upskill in your career? Redcar and Cleveland College offers Access to Higher Education Diplomas in Health, Counselling and Humanities and Social Sciences as well as a range of higher education courses.
To find out more visit www.cleveland.ac.uk/access-to-higher-education
Don't miss Redcar and Cleveland College's Adult Education Open Event on Tuesday September 5th (2023), from 5pm to 7pm. This is a chance to chat to the team about the full range of adult courses including higher education, access to higher education and part-time opportunities.
