Former Biology student returns to college to inspire the next generation

Emma Chadwick, a former HND Applied Biology student and adult learner recently returned to SERC's Lisburn campus to inspire the next generation of young scientists. 

Emma, who had previously been employed as a care assistant for 19 years whilst raising her family, returned to education in 2013, enrolling on the Access in Foundation Studies course. Emma was driven to return to education as her daughter approached GCSEs, wanting to inspire her saying, “If I can do it, so can you.”

On her visit to SERC Emma had the opportunity to speak with HNC students about how her time on the course and the challenges of studying whilst raising a family.

Emma said, “Trying to study and write assignments was difficult at times especially with a new born but despite all this I wouldn’t change anything.”

Students had the opportunity to ask Emma questions about opportunities following the course saying:

“There are so many opportunities following the course. When I finished studying with SERC, I turned down offers from universities as I wanted to work and provide for my family who had been so supportive during my time studying.

“I was better off at SERC because the skills and knowledge I gained through the course set me up for success and allowed me to gain full time employment.”

Following completion of the course at SERC, Emma has secured full-time employment as a Senior Technician for Biology and Chemistry with Friends School Lisburn. 

Bennett Chandran, SERC Lecturer in Science said “It was wonderful to see Emma again. She is true success story from SERC and shows that if you have the drive to succeed you certainly will. I wish Emma and her family the very best of luck for the future.”