English Literature, Sociology and Photography – A Levels
Eva was determined to make every day of her time at Ludlow Sixth Form College count, and that mindset has carried her all the way to the final year of an English Literature degree at the University of Worcester.
“I studied English Literature, Sociology, and Photography at A Level,” she said. “In my second year, I also took an EPQ, which is like a mini dissertation. I loved all my courses but the EPQ really prepared me for university-level research and writing.”
For Eva, Ludlow Sixth Form College offered more than just subjects; it offered her a place to grow.
“The staff were brilliant and the pastoral support was amazing,” she said. “Both made such a difference in my confidence. Coming from secondary school, I wasn’t always the most confident person, but Ludlow really built me up. Developing an open dialogue with staff helped me learn how to work with feedback productively, manage my research, understand my learning patterns, and ultimately assisted in building skills and a self-belief which I still lean on now.”
Her hard work paid off. Eva received offers from all five universities she applied to, from Russell Group institutions to more local universities. She also achieved something she felt recognised and rewarded her achievements: she was awarded a prestigious Academic Scholarship Award at the University of Worcester in recognition of her outstanding performance.
“Receiving a scholarship was a huge confidence boost,” she said. “It made me feel like all the hard work at Ludlow had really paid off, and it reassured me that Worcester believed in my potential.”
In the end, the choice for Eva was clear.
“I chose Worcester for similar reasons to choosing Ludlow,” she said. “It felt supportive, and I preferred the feel of the place. It’s a city with lots going on, but it feels smaller and more like a community.”
She added: “There’s definitely pressure on students to move away for university, but local universities like Worcester are equally worth considering. Staying local meant I could keep my support network while studying something I genuinely enjoy.”
Now in her third year, Eva is working on her dissertation and continuing to make the most of every opportunity.
“Studying English Literature at Worcester has been great,” she said. “There aren’t traditional exams, so while the assignments are demanding, I’ve still had time to carry on with my life. I’ve worked, I’ve had time to see my loved ones, and I’ve also explored my other interests.”
Those interests include her love of animals. Alongside her job at a dog kennel on Clee Hill, Eva has also been able to indulge her passion further by helping a local farmer with the lambing season.
“University isn’t just about studying,” she said. “It’s about figuring out what you want out of life. Worcester has given me the space to try new things, from writing poetry to getting hands-on agricultural experience.”
One of her proudest moments has been getting her own work published in poetry magazine Tranklements.
“I’ve always written for myself, but never really shared it,” she said. “Seeing my words in print was so heartening. Opening the magazine and finding my poem was a very proud moment, and it reassured me that my creative voice matters just as much as my academic writing.”
As she looks ahead, Eva sees a future full of possibilities. She said: “I know what I’m interested in; I’ve considered publishing, librarianship, and marketing. Writing will always be a part of my life, whether it becomes my main job or something I do alongside my career.”
She added: “I used to think being undecided was a weakness, but now I see it differently. I chose English Literature at Worcester because it connects to so many subjects and interests. I’m open to opportunities, and I’m excited to see where things take me.”
