When we think of the word “student”, we’ve all been guilty of picturing a fresh-faced 18-year-old school leaver. However, students come in all shapes, sizes, and ages! Mature students made up 23% of the UK’s undergraduate student population in 2019 and over half of The University of Derby’s students are classed as mature. Why is it, then, that we are made to feel so invisible amongst our younger counterparts?
My name is Cathy Hudson. I’m currently in my second year of studying a Marketing (Consumer Psychology)BSc with Foundation at The University of Derby. I served as a programme representative in my first year and enjoyed being instrumental in making positive changes to the student experience, albeit in a small way before a global pandemic put paid to that.
Returning to study, even at such a late stage, was the best decision I ever made, and I have thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of learning new skills. However, there have been times when I have felt like an overgrown interloper. Everything from Freshers to Careers Fairs are geared toward the 18-21 year old bracket. You can’t even get a Student Railcard if you’re over 25.
The university does its best to be inclusive but there is still a lot of work to be done to ensure that mature students get, if not the traditional university experience, a fulfilling one. I would love to leave behind a legacy for future mature students to enjoy.
If elected, I will aim to:
- address the issue of inclusion for mature students. We’re too old for Dick and Dom and their BOGIES but also too young (at heart) for the formality of a Cheese and Wine evening.
- assess the feasibility of a careers event aimed at over 25s.
- encourage the university to recognise and allow flexibility for the external pressures that mature students have to juggle alongside their studies. This may include caring for children and working, as well as signposting to financial assistance or mental wellbeing.
Thank you for reading and I hope I can count on your vote.
CATHY HUDSON for Part-time Officer (Mature Students).