How to decide and finding
your passion
Some use a creative course as the entry
point to a different future career.
This is Millie's story
I started at Harlow College in September 2021 and finished my course in 2023.
Before college, I really struggled with school. I dreaded going in, lost all interest, and honestly didn’t see a future for myself in education. Although I passed the GCSEs I needed, staying on at school for A levels wasn’t something I could face. I needed a fresh start, so I made the decision to enrol at Harlow College – not really sure what I wanted to do or where it would lead me.
Because of the pandemic, I didn’t get a chance to visit the college in person or explore all the course options. I ended up choosing Media, which caught my eye in the online prospectus. At the time, I still had no real direction – I didn’t enjoy education, and I had no idea what kind of career I wanted. But everything changed once I got to Harlow College.
For the first time, I felt like I was being supported by teachers who genuinely cared. I want to say a huge thank you to Lorraine and Richard – two brilliant teachers who believed in me from the start. Their encouragement helped me rebuild my confidence and, most importantly, helped me enjoy learning again. They showed me that I was capable, and that I had more options than I ever realised. Even though I chose Media, the course opened up so many different possibilities. It gave me transferable skills, time to grow, and a completely different outlook. I’m living proof that you don’t have to stick to one set path – I started in Media and now I’m just months away from becoming a qualified Social Worker.
The idea of going to university had never crossed my mind before college. But with the support and encouragement I received, the visits to universities and by exploring what was out there. I decided to take a leap I never thought I’d be able to make.
Uni:
Now, I’m in my final year of my Social Work degree – a career that I’m passionate about and one where I’ll be able to help others and make a real difference.
If you’re unsure about your next steps, or feel like education isn’t for you – I completely understand. I’ve been there. But I’d recommend Harlow College to anyone. It gave me a second chance, helped me find a path I love, and reminded me that it’s never too late to turn things around.
“To any student starting at Harlow College – enjoy it. You’re in the right place, with the right people to help you find your way.”
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