Over 220 Access students at Gower College Swansea have received their Diplomas this summer.
92% of those have secured the university place of their choice on programmes that include nursing, midwifery, law and social work.
This is fantastic news after what has been a very challenging academic year.
One student heading for university is Melenie Jane Box, who started at the College on a Level 2 Essential Skills course before progressing to the Level 3 Access to Law.
In September, Melenie Jane is due to begin a degree in criminology at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David.
An avid interest in her subject gave Melenie Jane a real focus as she made her way through the levels.
“Melenie Jane relished learning at every opportunity,” says her lecturer Mandy Wyn Davies. “As well as her studies, she took on the role of student representative and was an excellent ambassador for the group. And as a Level 2 student she felt confident enough to join an A Level conference at Swansea University. As a mature student, she really valued every aspect of her education and grabbed every opportunity that she was given at the College.”
“I had been out of the education system for well over 20 years and was a little scared to get back in the saddle,” says Melenie Jane. “But my lecturers were so helpful - especially Mandy - throughout my learning journey.
“Completing the Level 2 course gave me the courage to continue, it kind of gave me a buzz. So, if any mature students are out there and wishing to go back into education, I would say go for it! In the words of the late Ella Fitzgerald - just don't give up trying to do what you really want to do, where there is love and inspiration, I don't think you can go wrong!"