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I'm a mature student, returning to university after almost 20 years, and I'm studying part time on the Professional Enhancement Librarianship Masters. After such a large gap I was really worried about how I'd find studying and being in an academic environment (particularly whilst working full time), but I'm so glad that I decided to go for it!

Incredibly supportive and flexible

The University, the department, the staff and my course mates have all been fantastic, and have been an integral part of my engagement with, and enjoyment of the course. The help and support from the library and 301 - the Academic Skills Centre - has also been invaluable, helping me to get to grips with academic writing, referencing and so on. As I'm doing the Professional Enhancement Course (suitable for anyone with two or more years of experience within libraries) my module choice is incredibly flexible and I only have a couple of core modules that I have to take. The extra freedom has really enabled me to choose the areas and specialisms that I'm most interested in, which in turn has helped to keep me invested in the work.

All of the ISchool Team that I've met have been incredibly welcoming, friendly and supportive and I've really enjoyed going to the social events organised by them. I also really enjoy being in The Wave - it's a really beautiful new building with a great cafe!

Exploring libraries across the UK

I've loved so many different parts of my course, but other than making some amazing friends, my favourite thing so far has been the visits organised by the department. We've been to lots of different library services in many different sectors, and I really appreciate the opportunity to learn about things in a hands on way, and also the ability to meet and network with a wide range of people within the profession. Staff often promote extra opportunities on our Google Spaces Chat as well, and I signed up to a Event to visit The Leeds Library (the UK's oldest surviving subscription library) which was an incredible experience.

Advice for applicants and future plans

If at all possible, I'd advise attending everything that you can - particularly in terms of the Intro Week Sessions and Social Events. It's a really fantastic way to meet everyone involved on your course (teaching and support staff and fellow students) and to start to feel like part of the community! I currently work in an academic library, and although I enjoy my job, I'd really like to move into a different role - more of a liaison librarian position. I definitely feel as though my masters will make this possible.