by Maria C Collins

Created on: February 04, 2009   Last Updated: February 22, 2009

I left school at 16, then returned to study in my thirties, and passed some exams. The next logical move was a degree. When I was young, only the rich or the very clever went to university. One day I saw an advertisement in the local newspaper for a University open day for mature students wanting to study a new type of degree part time. I went along, was fascinated and filled out an application form and thought, "That's the last I will hear". When a letter arrived inviting me for interview, I was so surprised. I went along and the interviewer said, "This interview is a formality, your educational qualifications more than qualify you for entry onto the course, your place will be here in September". I had to pay fees and buy books, which were rather expensive.

I had agonies about whether I would be the oldest person in my classes. In the event there were many older people than I. It was difficult to juggle my job, caring for a home, and a relative with Alzheimer's disease and my husband, with studying. I often sat up all night finishing assessed essays, which counted towards my examinations. I went to college for an average of eight hours a week but spent much more time in study at home and in the college and public libraries.

It was strange being amongst so many young people on campus. Sometimes I think the young lads who went round in a huge group in the dark evenings did not realize that they frightened this old girl.

For the first four years, I felt like a fraud amongst brainy people. Having to give presentations was terrifying; on one occasion, my voice got lower and lower until it just failed completely.

The activities and amenities on campus for students were numerous. The college bar was pleasant especially in the summer when one could sit outside. The refectory was far too noisy but I found a little cafe in college that lecturers and older students used. Various clubs and societies were available but my responsibilities made it difficult for me to attend anything regularly. However, I did take advantage of some of the guest lectures and some concerts. We were fortunate that the university had an excellent music department.

Exams meant a fever pitch of nerves and crib sheets appeared everywhere, in the bathroom, on the kitchen cupboards. My husband learnt many things That he previously had not known he wanted to know.

My time at University was informative, interesting and fun; I gained so much more than my honors degree, knowledge but not only about the subjects that I studied and the realisation that I was not stupid and confidence and the power of my own determination to educate myself properly.

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