Hannah Halley: Big boots to fill

Hannah Halley is living her dream.

Hannah took an Access to Higher Education Diploma in Humanities and Social Sciences at Peterborough Regional College 12 years ago, and progressed to complete a Bachelor's degree in Media Studies at University Centre Peterborough. She's currently studying for a Master's in Digital Media Management at Birkbeck, University of London.

Before she enrolled on the Access course, Hannah was, as she says, a single parent with GCSEs. At that point, her self-esteem and anxiety were at rock bottom.

‘I was nervous about the classes and not being as good as everyone else, but I soon realised I didn’t need to worry,’ she recalls. ‘The teachers were so supportive, and all my classmates were in the same position. I made some great friends. And all our lecturers were so talented and passionate about what they do.’

She gives a special shout out to one particular Media & Journalism lecturer called Claire.

‘She was such a lovely and warm person - and so supportive,’ Hannah says. ‘She was also my tutor for my degree, as I chose to stay on at Peterborough. It made such a difference to have people so understanding giving extra support, time and feedback when I needed it.’

After completing her degree, she was offered a digital internship at The Body Shop. She and her eight-year-old daughter moved to Brighton so she could take up that position. Since then, she has worked in various e-commerce and digital roles for companies including Topshop, Big Bus Tours, Nuffield Health, Miss Selfridge and FitFlop.

Based in London, she is now the Digital Production Manager serving Europe for the world-famous Dr. Martens footwear business. She manages her own team, including a Digital Content Coordinator, Copywriter and Digital Analyst.

‘It's great to be able to work for such an iconic brand,’ she says. ‘It's such an energetic place to work and everyone is so passionate about the brand and product.’

‘Now that I manage a team of people, have a job I truly love, and live and work in London, I'm so glad the 23-year-old me decided to go for it - because it was so worth it. I never would have been brave enough to do what I’m doing now if I hadn’t started with the Access course. It's fantastic. I couldn't have imagined it back in 2011 - not in my wildest dreams.

‘So, I’d say: if you’re thinking about doing it, go for it! You’ll meet new friends, build your self-esteem, and develop hopes and goals for the future. I needed structure, routine, and something to work towards. I needed someone to tell me I was good enough and could succeed, which is exactly what I got. The support from all the staff was amazing.’

Hannah's daughter is now 17 years old. She's studying for her A levels and considering university courses. She was still at pre-school when Hannah started her Access course and started school just as Hannah went to university.

‘I hope that seeing me succeed throughout my education and career has inspired her,’ Hannah says. ‘I like to think I've done my best to be a positive influence, a good example of working hard, not giving up, and following your dreams.

‘My daughter's not going to say so now - she's 17! - but I hope she's secretly proud of me.’