Sarah's story
Having studied an undergraduate degree in Psychology and now graduating with an MSc in Applied Developmental Psychology, Sarah Bannon shares her story, including the challenges she overcame along the way, and her hopes for the future.
Sarah is preparing to embark on a PhD in education technology at Liverpool John Moores University, centred around the postgraduate research assignments that she undertook while studying at Hope.
Sarah said: “Education and helping others to make a difference in their lives is something that I am so passionate about and I have learnt so much doing my postgraduate degree that will stand me in good stead to take the next step in my career and achieve my ambitions.
“I believe strongly that our education system and schools would benefit immensely from the research that I am doing in technology in education as a tool to help engage and teach students from all abilities and backgrounds, with a particular benefit for SEN education settings. I hope one day to see a more immersive curriculum that gets the most out of pupils and allows teachers to work in new and exciting ways”.
Sarah had her sights set on a PhD for a long time and has worked hard to make that dream a reality, with the support of her lecturers at Hope.
Throughout her postgraduate studies Sarah has applied her learnings in a professional setting while working in a school and working alongside SEN children. Working whilst studying hasn’t been easy, but Sarah has been supported every step of the way. She commented: “It has been challenging juggling studies with work but it has been worth all of the hard work and commitment to reach this stage. I received amazing support from Hope and in particular from my tutor. I could not have asked for more when it comes to support, and I wouldn’t be where I am without the guidance and opportunities that Hope has given me. Hope gave me a chance and it transformed my life”.
Offering words of advice to others, Sarah added: “I would encourage anyone looking to further their studies to go for it. If you have an interest in your subject and a passion to succeed then take that leap.
“I have had a wonderful experience at Hope and I am so glad I chose to study here in my hometown of Liverpool. Not only do you get to study in beautiful settings but the staff are incredible and really made a difference to me personally and professionally. I studied through the pandemic and that was challenging but we were guided through it all and it hasn’t been a barrier to success. I am looking forward to this next chapter, and hope that the work that I do will enhance people’s lives”.