Julie Dagli

Course: Criminology
Age: 29
Location: Islington, London

Prior to having my son I spent five years as a dental nurse and two years as a police community support officer. When my son arrived three years ago I found myself at home and stuck in a rut, unable to find a job that would fit around my new family commitments.

I decided to use my time productively and study for a new qualification that would help me change career and get the kind of job I wanted when my son started school.
I also wanted to show future employers that I had used my time wisely and was able to apply myself to new challenges.

My time with the police had inspired me and I was keen to study the subject of criminology. My first step was to research courses on the internet which threw up various options. The EDI criminology course offered through distance learning by Home Learning College really stood out, in terms of content, price and the testimonials from previous students. The hardest thing for me was finding the time to study while also looking after my son. Unfortunately my family and friends don’t live that close so I had to juggle things around, but I was determined to find time for both. This was also ideal because I could study at home and at my own pace.

The last time I had studied was at school and it’s fair to say that I was nervous and unsure if I would be able to complete the course. This is another reason why distance learning worked so well for me, because I didn’t have to put myself back into a classroom environment which I would have found very daunting.

Right from the start my tutor was amazing and provided me with all the support and encouragement I needed. He was extremely quick at responding to my queries and his feedback on my work was always really helpful and kept me motivated to succeed. There’s no doubt that he played a key role in helping me throughout my time as a Home Learning College student.

The biggest piece of advice I would give to other women in my position is to always listen to your tutor. They really do know what they’re talking about and they are there to help you. At first I was reluctant to ask questions because I didn’t want to take up too much of my tutor’s time, but I quickly realised that he was as dedicated to helping me pass as I was, and that made a real difference.

Since completing the course my confidence has really increased and I feel like I am on the right path to improving my career. I am currently considering more study, possibly in the area of drugs awareness which will complement the work I’ve already done.

I would certainly recommend Home Learning College to anyone who is looking to improve their career prospects. It certainly worked for me!