Yara Fernandes Pinhal

BSc (Hons) Sociology, Class of 2024

Since completing the BSc (Hons) Sociology degree at the University of Suffolk, I have begun a full-time position as a trainee teacher at Colchester Sixth Form College, where I teach Criminology. Alongside this, I am undertaking my Level 7 PGCE (Post-16 Further Education) at the University of Huddersfield through University Centre Colchester.  

When applying to Universities, I visited and attended multiple taster days, exploring a wide range of different subjects and subject combinations. I.E., Sociology, Criminology, Forensic Science and even Spanish and Criminology at one university. However, none of the universities left the same impression on me, as the University of Suffolk did when I visited in 2020.  

I chose to apply to the University of Suffolk because of its strong reputation for social sciences, its modern facilities, and its continuous commitment to student support. The university’s smaller class sizes allowed for a more personalised and individualised learning experience, where lecturers were highly approachable and invested in student success. Additionally, the university’s emphasis on research, critical thinking and collaboration, particularly in areas like sustainability, crime and social justice, and culture and heritage, aligned with my academic interests and career aspirations. One of the main strengths of the university was the supportive academic community, where lecturers provided invaluable guidance and opportunities for professional development. The emphasis on real-world application, along with opportunities for networking and hands-on experience, ensured that learners were well prepared for their progression from education to higher education, employment or whatever they set their hearts to. As a student-centred university, the university prioritised student learning by gathering student opinions to shape courses, facilities and resources. 

My degree has been instrumental in supporting my career, equipping me with key transferable skills for the workplace and providing a strong subject knowledge bade that enables me to effectively teach my material. The support of key lecturers, such as David James, was invaluable in securing my teacher training position – his invitation to assist in sociology mini-classes at the Sixth Form towards the end of my degree helped me build a strong network of professional connections which I could rely on. Additionally, the encouragement of Alina Rzepnikowska Phillips and Javeria Atenas gave me the confidence to pursue a career in further education teaching, highlighting the need for learners to have a motivated and passionate teacher to guide them through the education process and prepare them for the world of work. 

 

Lastly, my degree introduced me to a world of research on EDI, racialisation and xenophobia, which continues to influence my professional career. As a member of the EDI committee at work, I work alongside like-minded colleagues to produce mini-research projects that we showcase to the college. Currently, a fellow trainee and I are examining the differences in school attainment based on POLAR 4 scores and the impact of inequality. My degree has been invaluable in supporting me with data gathering, analysis and presentation, ensuring I can contribute effectively to this important work. 

My student experience was largely positive. One of the main positives was the lecturers, who were dedicated to supporting students. Their sound subject knowledge and expertise ensured that lectures and seminars were not only engaging and enjoyable but also intellectually stimulating. They created an interactive learning environment where discussions were encouraged, and individual learning facilitated. Their willingness to provide additional support, whether through additional resourced, detailed feedback, or one-to-one meetings, further enhanced the overall quality and learning experience. Lastly, the shift towards blocked learning ensuring a fast-paced environment that allowed for more focused and immersive study. 

I am still surprised by the strides I have made in my professional career, especially given my initial doubts about being able to attend higher education following Brexit. However, through perseverance and the support of course leaders, I was able to commence and successfully complete my degree. One of my biggest accomplishments so far has been becoming the first in my family to attend and complete higher education – and for this, I am thankful for all the support I received from the University of Suffolk.