Ashleigh is in her second year of her Sociology degree. Beginning with a foundation year, she has continued to succeed and enjoy every moment. 

Here are six reasons why Ashleigh loves studying Sociology at CCCU. 

1. The student support

CCCU is incredibly supportive. It doesn’t matter what your academic background is, both the lecturers and your Personal academic tutor (PAT) are always happy to help in any way they can, and they really do care about your success. University can be daunting, but the support that CCCU gives makes this transition so much easier.

2. The variety of modules

Foundation year has been great as it’s been fun to have tasters into four different subjects - subjects that you wouldn’t necessarily have chosen yourself. It really does show how all the social sciences blend into each other and help build a bigger picture.

This collaborative approach to learning has enabled me to delve into subjects that I wouldn’t have considered before. It’s also helped me meet people who are interested in different areas, allowing me to make friends along the way.

3. The support with academic skills

Foundation year is the perfect year to really engage with your academic skills. These lectures help you to gain the right tools for you to start your assignments well.

They’re incredibly helpful at ensuring you’re ready for your next year and that you know how to write academically. Learning these academic skills has been critical in ensuring I achieve good grades this year and I feel fully prepared for the next academic year.

4. The expertise

One of my favourite parts has been the guest lecturers we’ve been lucky to have. They all specialise in certain areas within social sciences, and it’s allowed us to see things from different perspectives from people who are doing these jobs in industry.

I’ve taken so much away from these lectures and found them really engaging.

5. The Library

The Library has been my favourite place to study as everything you need is right there. The staff are very good at helping you understand how the library system works - tours are offered and staff are on hand to help you find what you need if you’re struggling.

Understanding how to research can be quite daunting at first but the Library has the Learning Skills Hub online, which covers anything you need to know. From understanding how to reference to avoiding plagiarism, there are so many online resources for students, so you’ll always feel supported throughout your studies.

6. The assignments

I’ve really enjoyed doing the assignments because each assignment varies. Whether it’s an academic poster or a presentation, there’s an assignment that will suit your learning preference. My favourite assignments have been academic posters because I’m such a visual learner.

I really enjoy planning and researching my ideas and absorbing new information. It has made me think more critically and has allowed me to expand my thoughts and question everything I read.

This level of critical awareness is essential for graduate roles, so I know that I’ll have the skills needed to enter industry when I finish my course.