Access course
Hi,
This is really a question for anyone that has experience with access courses or has studied on one.
Unfortunately I haven’t had a good time studying away from home and just don’t feel I’ve settled. I’m also not sure about the course I’m studying and am not enjoying it like I thought I would.
In order to have the opportunity to study at university in the first place I took an access course a couple of years ago. I remember my access course head coordinator said something about our grades only being valid for a certain period of time but am unsure what she meant by this. If I were to drop out altogether would I be unable to join another university program the following year? Obviously I know there will be implications by doing this or taking an extended break (interruption to study)
Thanks for taking the time to read
This is really a question for anyone that has experience with access courses or has studied on one.
Unfortunately I haven’t had a good time studying away from home and just don’t feel I’ve settled. I’m also not sure about the course I’m studying and am not enjoying it like I thought I would.
In order to have the opportunity to study at university in the first place I took an access course a couple of years ago. I remember my access course head coordinator said something about our grades only being valid for a certain period of time but am unsure what she meant by this. If I were to drop out altogether would I be unable to join another university program the following year? Obviously I know there will be implications by doing this or taking an extended break (interruption to study)
Thanks for taking the time to read
Reply 1
Hi Liam,
Sorry to hear you’ve had a tough time settling in.
The good thing is you do have options.
Most universities have support teams or academic advisers who can talk you through your choices confidentially-don’t be afraid to consult them, you are not alone in feeling this way.
If you are not enjoying your course, it is absolutely worth exploring whether you can transfer to a different one or take a break rather than fully withdrawing right away, or other pathways. Try not to view it as a setback, plenty of students defer or change direction and they end up happier and more successful in the long run. Just make sure to explain your situation clearly. They are there to help you.
In regards to your access results, most Universities accept them if they’re within 3-5 years old. However this can depend on the subject and place of study. It’s best to check directly with the university admissions teams. They’ll inform you if your qualification is still valid, or if you’ll need to retake any part of it. Given you took yours a couple of years ago, it should be fine but ensure you get it checked anyway for peace of mind.
I would also recommend arranging an appointment with a careers advisor to clarify what course or field might suit you better, before doing anything rash. If you don’t mind me asking, what subject are you currently studying and what do you dislike specifically about your course? Have you thought about what other subjects you may want to pursue?
Without meaning to sound patronising, look after yourself. Balancing your life with academic studies can be tough, seriously I’ve been there… and honestly, nothing is worth jeopardising your mental health over. Make sure you’re getting emotional support from your friends, family, and the university in general.
The key is communication. Once you’ve done that you’ll have clarity and can weigh up your options.
Good luck, and try not to worry about it.
Sorry to hear you’ve had a tough time settling in.
The good thing is you do have options.
Most universities have support teams or academic advisers who can talk you through your choices confidentially-don’t be afraid to consult them, you are not alone in feeling this way.
If you are not enjoying your course, it is absolutely worth exploring whether you can transfer to a different one or take a break rather than fully withdrawing right away, or other pathways. Try not to view it as a setback, plenty of students defer or change direction and they end up happier and more successful in the long run. Just make sure to explain your situation clearly. They are there to help you.
In regards to your access results, most Universities accept them if they’re within 3-5 years old. However this can depend on the subject and place of study. It’s best to check directly with the university admissions teams. They’ll inform you if your qualification is still valid, or if you’ll need to retake any part of it. Given you took yours a couple of years ago, it should be fine but ensure you get it checked anyway for peace of mind.
I would also recommend arranging an appointment with a careers advisor to clarify what course or field might suit you better, before doing anything rash. If you don’t mind me asking, what subject are you currently studying and what do you dislike specifically about your course? Have you thought about what other subjects you may want to pursue?
Without meaning to sound patronising, look after yourself. Balancing your life with academic studies can be tough, seriously I’ve been there… and honestly, nothing is worth jeopardising your mental health over. Make sure you’re getting emotional support from your friends, family, and the university in general.
The key is communication. Once you’ve done that you’ll have clarity and can weigh up your options.
Good luck, and try not to worry about it.
Quick Reply
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