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Ceri Willoughby - BA (Hons) English

I am the first generation in my family to study a Higher Education course

I attended a state school and was the first in my family to go to university. I studied English at the University of Exeter. I chose my degree subject because I am passionate about English - the decision was not career related.

My current job is Assistant to the Regional Advisers within the Education sector. This is based in the advice team at the Open University in Wales. I deal with student queries relating to course options, disabilities, careers etc. I live in Cardiff, which is where I went to secondary school and sixth form. Afterwards at the age of 18 I went to University, graduating in 2003.

I went to University because it was expected of me and I love the subject I studied. The best thing about it was the excellent course. The worst was that it was not a very varied social mix. At University I worked in the University bookshop, which was a very flexible arrangement. I also did full-time vacation work.

My advice to others who are thinking about going to university is think about your career options before choosing your course. Also, make sure you earn money during the summer before you go to university.

Since finishing my degree course, I hope to become a tutor for the Open University, to develop further knowledge of Higher Education and to undertake a Masters course.

My current job has evolved over the past year to include external liaison and policy group work. The best thing about the job is the excellent training opportunities. The worst is that it is not challenging.

My advice for anybody wanting to get into my line of work is to be prepared for some boring tasks and be patient for the rewards.

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