As the cost of living crisis continues to have an impact on our lives, University Studies at West Suffolk College has seen a rise in more people choosing to study degrees on their doorstep. We talk to Esther Starling, 22, from Kentford near Newmarket to find out why she chose to study at the expanding university in Bury St Edmunds.

Prior to studying a degree in Early Childhood Studies, I was on a Level 3 course at the College. At one point during my educational journey, I chose to study at a different university, but this experience didn’t suit me so I came back to my educational home. So far, my degree has been going very well, the tutors are very supportive and I’ve been getting the grades that I need so far. You get extra tutorials if you need additional help.

I’d say the benefits of University Studies are that we have smaller classroom sizes, the lecturers know your name, I’m used to how we are taught, the tutors know what targets you are working towards and the students I study with are all so lovely. Not only that, the fees are cheaper here (£8,500 per year) – so that is a big saving over three years in comparison with other universities. I also think it’s more personalised and concentrated on education – some people go to university to socialise – and whilst you can do that, I think everyone here comes to get the degree that they need to get the career that they want.

In terms of the advantages of studying locally, I don’t have to worry about rent as I’m living at home and I feel less anxious doing that. I’m not living with a load of strangers. They (University Studies at West Suffolk College) also shape your degree so that you can still work. I have to come in two days a week and this has allowed me to start work as a Special Teaching Assistant. The job is perfect for me as I can learn about early childhood studies at university and then put this in to practice at work. Conversely, I discover things at work that feeds in to my degree.

Another advantage is that there are a mixed set of learners here – people straight from school, career changes and others looking upskill to get more qualifications to improve their career prospects. There is also lots of new investment – facilities like our new XR lab are incredible and as the facilities expand, the more course options will be available to future learners.

I’d love to do a Masters here and then go on to either work in a primary school or in play therapy within a hospital. The aim is to combine a career that is working in education and health. Overall I love it here – I genuinely feel at home and when I graduate it will be an amazing feeling of satisfaction.

University Studies at West Suffolk College is hosting an open day at the University Studies Development Centre that is situated on Western Way. The occasion takes place between 9.30 and 12.30 and is a chance to find out about courses, chat to tutors and have a look around the relaxed campus that has expanding facilities.

Register for an Open Event