What does Glenda think?
If you're considering a Full-Time course but not sure if it's for you, read Glenda's story to hear her experience.
Glenda Sampson, age 41
Level 2, Electrical Installation
"When I was made redundant, I thought it would be a good opportunity to start a new career. I wanted to explore an industry that I know will always need trained and skilled people. I used to work in Sales and Lettings, so knew plumbers and electricians were always in high demand so thought I’d look into it. It’s a huge leap of faith as no one in my family are electricians, but everyone was really supportive.
Although I am one of the oldest students on the course, I haven’t let phase me. I guess you think it will be an issue going to college at my age and that people will judge you, but you don’t get any of that. You work with all sorts of people in your professional career, so I’ve never thought going to college would be any different.
The course is great and I really enjoy it. It’s Monday to Wednesday which means I can still fit it around my three children. To say I had no experience as an electrician whatsoever, it’s fantastic to see what I’ve achieved.
“I used my redundancy as an opportunity to carve out a new career as an electrician.”
I can’t wait to start the next level and get fully qualified. I can really see a niche market for female electricians and can’t wait to get started.
To anyone thinking about returning to education, sometimes you have to take a leap of faith. I know I wouldn’t have done this if I hadn’t been made redundant, it was a pushing stone for me.
For a lot of people out there who are daunted by the thought of going to college, or people who may have been made redundant, I’d say go for it. Decide what you want to do and look for something that you know will always be needed and do it."
