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Daniel

"The combination of the glowing reputation and the university ratings was a strong factor in my preference of university."

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"Before I began life as a student at Goldsmiths I was a manager in a school that worked with children diagnosed as having emotional and behavioural difficulties. My position, Acting Head of Care, had been earned by my ability to work effectively and being at the right place at the right time. However I was concerned about my future prospects as my lack of qualifications would have eventually presented a barrier in my future career development. My decision was to leave full-time employment and go back into full-time education as a mature student.

This decision was very daunting as I knew that I would have to make many sacrifices. Once I had decided to pursue the social work degree I immediately began to speak to social workers that I knew professionally and privately. As the conversations took place, Goldsmiths was the one establishment that was continually mentioned. Goldsmiths had a reputation of excellence in regards to the quality of the lecturers and the level of the practitioners that complete the course. I then looked at the university ratings and noted that Goldsmiths had been in the top three for a number of years for social work. The combination of the glowing reputation and the university ratings was a strong factor in my preference of university.

My decision has been validated from the moment of the interview to this present day. I am finding the social work course both rewarding and demanding. The content of the course is riveting at times. During these last three years I have not only been taught complex theories and concepts, but have been given the skills to think analytically and view things from multiple perspectives. The lectures in the beginning of year one were daunting for many students as we had to get accustomed to the concepts we were being taught by lecturers with a complex vocabulary. However, being on placement in year three has illuminated the importance of broadening one's knowledge. Both of my placements have also highlighted the positive reputation that Goldsmiths students have within social work.

The atmosphere in the university is excellent. There is a very youthful and vibrant feel that permeates throughout Goldsmiths. There is an unwritten rule around respecting each other within the uni and I have never seen anything but a positive vibe in Goldsmiths. During my time at Goldsmiths I have taken part in football, basketball, and jujitsu. I have also been able to attend different activities ranging from fashion shows, to debates with politicians. By using the university equipment I have been able to make two DVDs, one for a school project and another for a work project.

Goldsmiths is one choice that I will never regret. The things that I have experienced and learnt will always be looked at fondly. My reality is that I came to Goldsmiths just wanting to be a social worker, but I will be leaving with the hope that social work is just the beginning of my career."

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