College Helps Thomas Grow As a Person
Thirty-four-year-old Thomas Hall tells us how his course has helped him to grow as a person and how he’s met people from all walks of life during his time studying at Edinburgh College…
“When I’m not DJing for a digital radio station or looking after my two children, I’m either studying or working for a local social care and community development supporting people across Scotland to live safe and fulfilling lives.
To date, I’ve had quite a varied career and lived in London before I moved to Edinburgh twelve years ago. Over the years I’ve spent time working in customer service, sales, hospitality, events… the list goes on. Throughout my various job roles, I’ve always been passionate about helping people and have committed a lot of my time to running and supporting charity events.
I think it’s so important to study and do something you’re passionate about, and for me that’s working with, and helping, people in the community. I initially studied an Introduction to Counselling part-time course at Edinburgh College before beginning my NC Working with Communities course.
My course involves a placement in a community-based organisation which enables us to use the skills we’re learning. There’s plenty of variety on the course and I’ve met people from all walks of life, both while attending College and during my placement. The curriculum covers a vast amount from helping people with substance abuse to events management – everything you need to work with the community is covered. I’ve learnt so much, not only about what it takes to work with communities but about myself.
I’ve always cared for people and to be able to do it as a career is a dream. I was nervous about returning to education but since coming back to College I’ve really grown as a person. I’ve taken myself out of my comfort zone which is never easy but the lecturers are really supportive. I’m hoping to progress onto the HNC course next year.”
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