Four years into University, it feels like a full circle moment to be reminiscing about all the events that lined up for me to be here. Next Step York (NSY) has allowed me the opportunity to blossom as a young person, equipping me with the confidence to grow into the person I wanted to become.
Central Hall (Campus West)
Stepping Stones
With NSY, I was able to better understand my strengths and how higher education works. The 2-year programme is tailored to help students be more efficient with studying, through sessions on Revision Strategies and Effective Note-Taking. In Year 13, NSY supported me through my university decisions, with tailored guidance on personal statements and application procedures.
Attending the online sessions, I was able to challenge myself to switch my camera on and contribute to activities. As a very shy young person, this helped me believe in myself and find the courage to take part in the programme and pursue higher education at York.
For me, Next Step York started out to simply be an added factor to quote in my personal statement. The reduced offer for selected courses seemed appealing as a backup, and frankly, I would have just been happy with the merch that came posted to my house. Joining the first session, the one main thing that I remember is warm and cheerful faces spread through the screen. Through and through, I started to love the activities hosted by the NSY team and the ambassadors, but also the practical information that was provided.
Sessions are curated to help students better understand how to tailor studying depending on their skill sets. The second year is focused on following the UCAS application and supporting students through each stage of the application process.
The covid era meant that most of the programme was delivered online. We had fun socials, ranging from chocolate tasting to designing our own colleges. It was nice to have a break from constant studying and the pressures of sixth form.
My favourite part of NSY was being able to meet a lot of people from different walks of life. It was great to mingle and consistently see the same faces. Unlike school, the programme allows you a platform to connect with a lot of people with lots of different interests.
Sunset views from 22 Acres
Next Steps
Coming into university, I was able to meet the Next Step York students again at Step Ahead, a residential programme on offer for eligible students. Being in a new environment and seeing university for the first time, Step Ahead was the best way to test the waters at university. We were shown around the University, living in real student accommodation, and I remember scouting out my assigned accommodation during, which meant I knew where I was going to move in the day.
Being part of both NSY and Step Ahead, I found the Student Communities network at the university. As a York student, the monthly online sessions of NSY were now replaced by coffee afternoons with students at the university. I found it much easier to meet students in a more like-minded environment. Student communities are something that I am proud to be an active member of, even now in my 4th year.
Once the initial settling-in phase was over, I wanted to apply to be a Student Ambassador and work on the other side of the NSY programme. I was recruited as a Student Supporter to design, deliver and facilitate engaging sessions for the new cohort of Next Step York. I was grateful to work with the same staff team that led my programme. The first year of NSY as an Ambassador was surprising and unique – coming up with creative games and spin-offs of fun entertainment shows. I also remember brainstorming quirky college titles and personas – I led Diana College with my co-worker.
The Student Ambassador role includes working flexible shifts in varying degrees. One day, you’re greeting prospective students outside the lush fields of 22 acres, and the other you’re hosting game shows and virtual scavenger hunts for students that are still in school. Through these opportunities, I’ve worked at award ceremonies for IntoUniversity, tutored at the local community centre (The Place) and even organised focus group interviews about student life.
On to the Next
While attending the NSY programme widened my horizons regarding universities and helped me be more vocal and open, working on the programme has entirely transformed my future plans and goals.
I am looking to pursue a career within Access and Outreach to help students like myself better understand and make University a possibility without the added burden that they have to carry. Fingers crossed, I may even try to come back to the team at the university!
In my first year at university, I would have never believed that I’m the kind of person to be writing a blog about life at York. I still remember being in Year 12, sitting in the common room, when my friend started telling me about this new university, which seemed so far away. Now to think of York as home, as a community that has seen me grow – it is only right to end my journey with working the Next Step Residentials this summer, with my colleagues and friends 🙂
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