My Journey at LSCI
Maryam Ilyas
Returning to higher education as a mature student after a long gap was not easy. I came back with many responsibilities and, at times, many barriers in front of me. I knew I wanted to achieve something academically, but I also knew that balancing education with adult life would require commitment, resilience and the right support.
From the beginning, my transition into studying at LSCI was incredibly smooth. The administration team guided me through the process, helped with my documentation and were always there to reassure me when I felt uncertain. Their encouragement reminded me that things were achievable, even when they sometimes felt overwhelming.
Once I began my studies, what stood out to me was that the lecturers understood students not only on an academic level, but also as individuals. That made a huge difference to my journey. I had studied at other institutions before, but the level of support, understanding and encouragement I experienced at LSCI was different.
When I started, I believed that if I worked hard enough, I would somehow pass my degree. I never imagined that I would finish with a First-Class Honours degree in Business Management. I worked extremely hard for it, but I also recognise the role that the support and academic guidance I received at LSCI played in helping me reach that standard.
One area I became particularly interested in was research methods, and having Assad Dib during the final stage of my studies was a blessing. That experience strengthened my interest in research, critical thinking and understanding how knowledge can be applied beyond the classroom.
I am grateful to every member of LSCI who contributed to my journey from the administrative staff who were always present when I needed help, to the lecturers who taught me directly and those who contributed to the wider learning environment.
What I will remember most about LSCI is its culture. The diversity, kindness and respect between students and staff created an environment where people from different backgrounds and stages of life could feel that they belonged. LSCI focuses on academic achievement and results, but it also recognises the potential of the person behind the student.
I would also like to thank the leadership and principals for building an institution and team that gave me the opportunity to reach a level academically that I once did not think was possible.
My journey at LSCI has now come to an end, but my journey in education has not. I leave with more than a degree. I leave with knowledge, confidence, resilience and skills that I will carry into the next chapter of my life as I continue my studies and move into healthcare.
My hope is to use everything I have learned both academically and personally to serve the community that has supported me.
LSCI was not simply where I completed my degree. It became an important part of the journey that showed me what I was capable of achieving.