Danielle and Ashley Farrant, from Dudley, are looking forward to a “bright future” after picking up degrees at University of Staffordshire’s Autumn Awards celebrations.
Danielle, 27, said: “I've really enjoyed the experience of graduating together, especially on the same day. It has been a really, really lovely experience to share together.”
Ashley, 30, added: “As husband and wife, to celebrate this with family and friends has been a really overwhelming feeling. It’s been challenging, but an experience not to forget and to take on for many, many years. We’ve got a bright future ahead.”
The couple has been together for over a decade and both now have their dream jobs after returning to education to follow a new career path.
Danielle completed her University of Staffordshire Secondary Physical Education PGCE degree through West Midlands Consortium and Ashley has gained a BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science degree through an apprenticeship in partnership with West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS).
“From the age of 14, I wanted to be a teacher. But I didn't really think I could do it, due to owning a home and all the other life commitments that went along with that,” explained Danielle, who previously worked as a manager at a DIY chain.
“But I managed to get a degree with the Open University, and then found the time to take a year out of work to do my PGCE. So it is a massive career change for me.”
Ashley decided to train as a paramedic after working as manger in the control room with WMAS. During his studies, Ashley was diagnosed with ADHD and autism and after receiving extra support has graduated with first class honours.
“I needed a life change. The office environment wasn't for me and I needed to do something active,” he commented. “Going through university together we figured it out. You recognise your weaknesses and strengths and ultimately we have graduated on top.
“Having Dan there and growing together has been the best part of the journey I think, and we’re just going from strength to strength.”
Describing studying together, Danielle said: “It's not been easy and we have found it really difficult but the support has always been there. I haven't just done my degree on my own, I've done it with Ash. He has supported me and that is one of the best things about graduating now.”
Having completed their studies, Danielle has secured a job as a P.E. teacher and Ashley is now working as a paramedic.
To others considering a career change, Danielle advised: “It is definitely worth taking the leap. I took a massive leap, being a homeowner and not thinking I’d be able to go back to university to do what I want to do.
“Just that one little opportunity, take it straight away because it will take you places. For me, I've got my dream job. It has taken me five years to get there but I have done it.”
Ashley said: “I’m living proof! With ADHD and autism getting diagnosed very late in life, spending years going from pillar to post, wondering what am I going to do next. Then coming out with a first it's just mind blowing. So, anybody out there can do it. You get the right support behind you, get the right momentum, surrounded by those who love you, then anything is possible.”
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