UCAS - Case studies

Use other people's experiences to help you make the right decision

The case studies in this section will show you how different people have become mature students.

Their stories reveal how they set about tackling the problems and obstacles faced by older students with different constraints and responsibilities.

They each remain delighted that they made the decision to go to university or college.

Penny, 40, was given little aspiration or hope for her academic future by her 'typically old-fashioned secondary modern school'
'By talking with your peers doing the same course you realise everyone has similar anxieties and you soon develop a support network.'

Mark, 50, was made redundant twice in quick succession, so decided to enter further education as a means of obtaining a qualification whcih would give him more work opportunities
'I feel more confident, not just academically, but in a variety of life situations.'

Heather K, 33, decided to return to education after a prolonged amount of time off work due to ill health
'It can be difficult spending so much time studying, but I've found that as long as I set aside time with my family with no distractions, they are very understanding.'

Heather L, 46, was made redundant and started a part-time HNC in photography to improve her job prospects
'I have found academic study a real challenge after many years out of the education system, however I feel it's worth it as I've learnt so much.'

Would you like to tell your story about life as a mature student?

We all want to know as much as possible before making an important decision, and reading about other people's journeys to university or college can be really helpful. If you think that your experiences of applying to, and attending, higher education could benefit other mature students, please email us at website@ucas.ac.uk and your story could be displayed in this section.