Leanna Fairfax

What motivated you to apply to study for a foundation course and why did you chose Leeds?  

I wanted more meaning to life and I felt that studying would broaden my interests and knowledge to help with this. I was also motivated by some of my life experiences and I wanted to be in position to help others in some way.

What do you think of your course, have there been any particular highlights for you?

I have loved my years studying at the University I have learnt new knowledge and grown so much as an individual. My highlight for me has to be achieving a 1st in my BA degree, I left school at 15 as I struggled with coming to terms of being a young mum. Thus, I had sat no exams and had no GCSE. Also, I will never forget writing my first essay, a large factor I had to overcome was my self confidence. I remember thinking I can’t do this I will fail and I overcame it wrote it and I think I got a 58. Which I was amazed at.

How have you found the online learning so far?

Not too bad as I have found it suits my lifestyle better with children and it has enabled me to join more events and activities. I do miss the social aspect though especially now I am at masters level and I am missing out on being able to pick other students minds as I would have liked to discuss PhD related things.

How would you describe the help and guidance provided by the staff within the School?

I have found it very supportive and nurturing. I have had the right guidance all the way through and very appropriate for the year of study too. There has been a number of staff who I feel have really guided me and reassured me and I will never forget these people.

Since starting at the university have you been granted any scholarships?

Yes I won scholarship from University of Leeds for both my BA and MA. I also won the Fiona Williams scholarship for my BA.