Accessibility statement

Chloe

As a student with dyslexia I understand first hand the barriers young people might face when applying to University.

Student ambassador Chloe in front of Heslington Hall

Degree: MA Forensic Phonetics. 

I also studied BA English Language and Linguistics at The University of York. 

College: Alcuin College 

Year of study: 4th year 

Hometown: Stamford

Secondary school type: Grammar school 

Favourite place in York: Gatehouse Coffee Shop 

Other hobbies: York Hornets Cheerleading and Dance club, Cycling club and Alcuin college committee sports officer.

Why did you choose the University of York?
I chose to come to the University of York given that it was a campus based University meaning I could study away from the city centre in beautiful green spaces. My department also seemed really accommodating and the modules offered for my course really interested me. 

What’s your favourite thing about the University of York?
I really like the college system at York given that it makes it super easy to get to know people and make friends. I feel like this is a great support network to help you when moving away from home. 

Why did you decide to apply to become an SA?
As a student with dyslexia I understand first hand the barriers young people might face when applying to University. Therefore I decided to become an SA given that I wanted to be a positive role model and help others who are considering higher education. 

What did you think it would involve and how right was that prediction?
I thought being a Student ambassador would entail work such as campus tours, summer schools, visit days and clearing. This prediction was correct and I really love the work I do with the student ambassador scheme given that you feel really supported and there are a wide range of opportunities to be involved in. 

Did you have any concerns before applying or when starting and what were they?
When applying to University I was concerned about staying on top of the additional reading required for my course. This was especially a worry for me given that I am dyslexic and therefore wanted to know that I was going to be able to manage the workload. 

What is it like being an SA?   
Being an SA is great, I think it is a really rewarding job given that you are making a difference to young students, helping them with their journey into higher education. I love that it is a really social job and you get to work with lots of different people from different walks of life. 

What types of SA work have you been involved in?
I have done a wide range of SA work in my three years at York. This work includes things such as post offer visit days, campus open days, admin work, residentials, online summer schools and much more. I love the variety of different opportunities you can get involved in because this really helps to widen your skill set. 

What would you say to encourage those of other genders, backgrounds, ethnicities to apply?
No matter who you are I would really encourage you to apply for the role of SA. I really do not see the work I do as work - it's enjoyable, rewarding and a great way to meet new people at University. 

How do you think you have benefited both at University and how it may help you in your future job search/career?
At University and with student ambassador work I have really developed my ability to talk to a wide range of people. This is a really useful skill in a future job given that it is important to be able to adapt and work with different people who hold different skill sets. 

Are you glad you became / are an SA? Would you encourage others to become an SA and why?
I am glad I became an SA given that I really struggled with my journey into higher education and therefore it has been an invaluable experience to share my experience with prospective students and act as a positive role model. I would encourage all students at the University of York to consider becoming an SA given that you will meet new friends while also gaining a real sense of pride about the work you do.