From the moment she joined the College, Alumna Chandrika found an environment that allowed her to grow in confidence and explore her interests whilst feeling supported and encouraged.
Now studying at Child Nursing at Canterbury Christ Church University, Chandrika commented “Studying at EKC Ashford College has been the best thing to ever happen to me. I genuinely wouldn’t be the confident person I am today, or someone who’s so positive, if it wasn’t for their support. I’m incredibly thankful for them.”
Chandrika’s started at EKC Ashford College after leaving school, she joined us to study Education and Early Years, before studying Access to Higher Education: Nursing, Midwifery and Healthcare Professions.
Read on to find out more about her story.
A supportive environment
Reflecting on her experience, Chandrika highlights the inclusive and supportive environment at EKC Ashford College.
“The support available was incredible.” she said. “From tutors and mentors to student support services, whatever you needed they were always there.”
She also emphasises that College felt very different from school and encouraged her to grow in confidence. “I wouldn’t be this confident person if it wasn’t for their support,” she added.
Building confidence through the Students’ Union
One of the most influential parts of Chandrika’s College experience was getting involved in extracurricular activities, particularly the Students’ Union.
Chandrika started as a Student Ambassador helping at Open Evenings and encouraging other students to get involved with SU events. She went on to be elected as Student Union President, a role that helped her develop leadership skills and confidence. During this time, she created the much loved ‘Celebration of Culture’ event, an initiative designed to promote equality, inclusion and diversity.
“I just thought it was really important to teach the younger generation about equality, inclusion and diversity,” she explained. “You should be accepted for who you are, no matter where you come from.”
What began as a student-led idea has since become an annual event, Chandrika was proud that she has left a lasting legacy across the College community.
Academic progression and preparing for university
During her time at EKC Ashford College, Chandrika studied multiple courses, including GCSE Maths, Early Years and an Access to Higher Education: Nursing, Midwifery and Healthcare Professions course.
“Everything I was taught at College helped to progress me into that higher education, which in turn helps to propel you into the career and what you want to go into,” she said.
The skills she developed, from assignment structure to research and referencing, helped her feel more confident when progressing to university.
Overcoming Challenges
Maths was one of the biggest challenges Chandrika faced during her studies. She openly speaks about finding exams difficult but with the support and encouragement from her tutors was able to leave College with a GSCE maths qualification.
“For someone who struggles with exams, my biggest advice would be don’t be embarrassed to ask for help,” she said. “Your teachers are there to support you.”
Chandrika received one-to-one support from experienced members of the Maths team and spent time practising at home to strengthen her weaker areas.
“It was really daunting going into the exam hall after failing previously” she admitted, “but I did what I needed to do to get through. I worked really hard and it genuinely paid off in the end.”
Successfully completing her maths qualification became a key milestone in her journey and played a crucial role in enabling her to progress to university.
Progressing to a career in Child Nursing
Chandrika is now studying Child Nursing at Canterbury Christ Church University. Her course includes a mix of academic study, practical learning and placements in hospital and community settings.
“College supports you with CVs, UCAS applications, and preparing for what comes next. You’re not left to figure it out on your own, you just need to ask for help. I genuinely wouldn’t have progressed onto university if I didn’t receive support from the College – especially with my maths.”
Reflecting on her College experience
Chandrika started College as a shy 16-year-old and is now a confident young woman thriving at university. She is glad she chose EKC Ashford College as her place to study.
“I’m really proud of where I am now,” she said. “When I left school, I would never have imagined I’d have the confidence, or courage, to sitting in front of a boardroom of governors sharing ideas about how the College should change. Looking back now and thinking about how far I have come, just puts a massive smile on my face.”
Chandrika’s journey through EKC Ashford College is a fantastic example of how the right support, encouragement and opportunities can shape not only academic success, but the ability to grow as an individual.
If you would like to join a College that cares about you and supporting you to reaching your goals, then EKC Ashford College is the place. Join us at our next Open Day to explore your options.
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