You’re looking at Cruise.co.uk’s newest Graduate!!

Yes, that’s right, I am the newest Graduate at Cruise.co.uk. I know I may look 21 at times but unfortunately, I am not. I decided to go back to university at the age of 25. I chose The Open University as at that time (February 2014) I was living in Nanjing China and it was the best way to finally start my degree by studying at home. I chose to study a BA (Hons) Business Studies with a Spanish Pathway and I knew It was going to take me 5/6 years. Studying in China was definitely a challenge as I was speaking Mandarin whilst out and about in town, teaching English to the children and learning Spanish at home. Having 3 languages swirling around my head was definitely interesting!

In my gown ready for the ceremony!

In December 2015, I moved back to the UK and studying definitely became easier as I was about to attend some tutoring sessions with other students. In October 2017 I moved to mainland Spain in order to practice and perfect my Spanish for my final Spanish modules. The move obviously did the trick as I passed all of my assignment and modules.

With my little sister Letty.

I was due to receive my results from my final year back in July, on the 23rd I received 3 out of 4 of the results and I was overcome with emotions when I learned that I passed all 3. I got my final result on the 30th and of course, it was a pass. I just felt so relieved, proud and happy all in one. It just felt so surreal that I had finally completed University. All I could think was….’Roll on graduation’!!

With my Dad, brother & little sister.

My Graduation Ceremony was on the 19th of October and the Brighton Centre. I couldn’t believe just how many graduates were there. I first had to register and collect my gown with my blue and yellow colours to represent a Bachelor of Arts with Honours. Once I had my gown it all became very real.

With my Mum & her partner Paul.

So, who came with me? I was due to have 10 guests but unfortunately, 3 had to drop out last minute due to illness. I was thankful to the family members that made it though. My parents came to support me for the day in addition to my Mum’s partner Paul, my Auntie Laurie, my Nan, my younger brother Lewis and my little sister Letty. We got lots of fantastic pictures throughout the day and I have included a few within this blog.

With my Auntie Laurie.

Overall, my Graduation Ceremony was a great experience and also slightly emotional. I think it’s probably the proudest I have ever felt. I t was a long road but I am so glad I did it.

With my Nan.