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Breaking Barriers: Being a Care Leaver at University. By Sarah

Hello, this is Sarah, a second-year university student studying Criminology at York. I have a variety of hobbies from reading a diverse range of genres, physical exercise both in nature and the gym, baking, cooking, travelling and learning self-development skills. Having these various hobbies has helped me achieve a structured work life balance. Immersing myself in them I have seen such a massive difference in the way I lay my life out for the future.

I hope by reading this article you can display certain aspects and relate/reassure yourself that you are never alone and your struggles are to be seen and valued when it comes to the support and receiving opportunities you deserve.

 Shambles Market in York. 

Advocacy and getting support as a care experienced university student

I would first recommend reaching out to the students support teams of your university either by email, telephone or visiting in person. This team can ensure you are receiving all the support in terms of accommodation/ financial help and academic support etc. During this process they will inform you to complete any forms or provide any evidence. If issues are still not resolved, then contacting your personal advisor or the council you are with to discuss any problems you may be facing during university life etc. Your PA is responsible in advocating and stating the best advice in what you are struggling with.

You should never feel like you must do everything all by yourself especially when you struggle and you are in desperate need of help. As a young adult going through so much emotional burden already in which many others may never go through in their lifetime is a reminder that you are a strong and determined individual.

A photo with my friends from the student communities teams

How to cope with internal emotions and facing hardships throughout your degree

Understanding and resonating with yourself can have a positive impact with your wellbeing especially if you are feeling overwhelmed with stressful tasks and life changes. This can help figuring out who you are as a person, your strengths and weaknesses and ultimately how you are able to overcome challenges throughout your degree. Writing it all down is a useful tool and this is a courageous step forward to improve your wellbeing. Then hopefully you can have a more peaceful and trouble-free mindset. Reaching out to someone who is in your support network or any societies you may have joined during your time at university will be a step forward in reminding yourself you are valued. If they are willing to help you in any way they will even if it is doing the hobbies, you enjoy with you – this can feel like a sense of belonging.

I am aware everyone can cope differently with their emotions; however, one thing I discourage is bottling it all up otherwise it will get the best of you. I know from experience especially in first year, first semester when it was an utter set back to me. Acknowledging being in the foster system for 18+ years, the sudden life trajectories in my life has been tricky and immensely emotional.

Get out there!

Personally, I have found participating in independent student activities has been quite wholesome to remind myself I am not alone- especially now I have had the opportunity to work in the student communities to set up and facilitate events, I have been able to make new friends from this too. Being outside in nature and going to the gym created a peaceful environment for me. This has boosted my happiness and learning who I am and how I can manage my time effectively too as well as having a balance to spend time with friends, examples include days out in the city, exploring other cities, trying new activities and food places.

You should always remind yourself the profound change and progress you have achieved is amazing. Breaking away from stereotypes and stigma from being a care leaver can show how much more you can achieve during the time you have at university and after!

By reading this, I hope you have enjoyed and will continue carry on being you. Always hold yourself to the best version you can be, you can do it. Thank you in taking your time to read this.

From Sarah 🙂

I travelled to the Philippines for six weeks in the summer- this was me island hopping in El Nido. 

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There are several advocacy and support lines out there for care experienced and estranged students.

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