I’ve always loved reading and have always had a creative side, so the course immediately stood out when I was looking at my options.
It also gave me the chance to explore and develop a different part of myself away from sport and foster a new passion.
Although the Essex Rebels volleyball programme definitely caught my attention, it was the University of Essex campus that really made me fall in love with the idea of studying here.
The greenery, open spaces and sense of nature made it feel like a home away from home, and that feeling has only grown stronger over time.
Being away from home was a challenge at first. I’m from Hordle in Hampshire, and as a real homebody, moving away was a huge step for me.
Four years ago, I would never have imagined moving even five minutes down the road from where I grew up, let alone across the country.
Homesickness found me quickly as it was my first experience being away from all my people. But pushing through and diving into this experience headfirst has opened up so much more life I didn’t know I could have.
One of the most memorable parts of my time at Essex has been the people. I’ve had the chance to meet so many incredible individuals I never would have crossed paths with otherwise, and I’m so grateful for the community I have found here.
I’d recommend Essex to prospective students because it offers a safe, welcoming and beautiful campus, with a real sense of community that makes it easy to feel at home.
After graduation, I’ll be returning to Essex to study for a Masters degree, while continuing to pursue my sporting ambitions and hopefully playing professionally overseas in the future. Longer term, I’d also love to see my writing published one day.
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