Have you ever wondered about switching paths and chasing a new dream? My journey shows that it’s never too late to embrace your passions.

I arrived in London in the 1980s as a bricklayer in the bustling construction world. That was my life before travelling music and crime took over. But in 2017, I took a leap into creative writing, and now I’m studying for a BA in Creative Writing at Birkbeck, University of London. The key? A foundation year that changed everything.

Why I Chose Creative Writing
2017 I signed up for three short writing courses—two at Chelsea Theatre on King’s Road and one at St Charles. Each ran for three months, and I joined for fun, with no grand plans.

But I fell in love with writing. I wrote countless short stories and devoured books on all sorts of topics. Writing became my passion, not just a pastime.

Then someone suggested the university. At first, it felt out of reach, but the idea stuck, so I applied—and to my amazement, Birkbeck accepted me for their foundation year in September 2022.

What’s a Foundation Year Like at Birkbeck?
A Bridge to Success
Without the right qualifications for a degree, the foundation year was my way in. It’s built to boost confidence and equip students with the skills needed for university.

Gaining New Skills
The first term taught me academic writing. I’d never written an essay before, so it was initially tough. I learned to craft arguments, reference correctly, and write clearly in academic English.

My method? Weeks of reading, note-taking, and exploring different viewpoints before drafting.

In the second term, we dived into creative writing modules. These sparked exciting discussions, encouraged bold ideas, and gave me a glimpse of what a full degree would involve.

Is It Tough?
Yes, sometimes—but it’s doable. Mistakes happen, and there’s plenty of support to guide you.

Here’s what worked for me:

Write down detailed notes during induction week—they’re a lifesaver.

Ask every question, no matter how small it seems.

Explore Moodle—it’s packed with resources, reading lists, and marking guides.

These habits kept me on track when deadlines loomed.

Balancing Study and Life
Birkbeck’s evening classes gave me time for studying, reading, and socialising. Balancing study with daily life can feel overwhelming, but planning helps. I write down every task and deadline to stay organised.

If you’re managing other things like work or family, talk to your tutor early—they’re there to support you. And don’t skip the social side. Regular classes helped me connect with people from all backgrounds, countries, and ages, enriching my experience.

Why a Foundation Year Pays Off
A foundation year might seem like an extra step, but it was the key to university for me. It let me:

Get comfortable with academic life.

Build confidence in writing and research.

Master skills like time management, discussion, and public speaking.

If you’ve been out of education, lack traditional qualifications, or want an easier start to university, a foundation year is a brilliant choice.

Reflecting on My Journey
Looking back, I’m buzzing I took the chance. Without the foundation year, I wouldn’t be where I am now—starting my third year of a BA in Creative Writing, ready for what’s next.

If you’re considering a foundation year, my advice is clear: take the leap. It could unlock possibilities you never imagined.

Are you considering university as a mature student? Share your story in the comments below, and I will reply to everyone.

From laying bricks to crafting stories—find out how a foundation year at Birkbeck transformed my life and set me on the path to a BA in Creative Writing.

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