The course at University of Birmingham was one of very few Masters courses flexible enough to work around my full-time job and caring responsibilities, as their course was designed to be studied part-time and without having to commute to the campus.  I also had an idea about what I wanted to research and when I went for the open day, the tutors I met were enthusiastic about supporting me to pursue those ideas. 

What is your current role?

Soon after completing my Masters at Birmingham, I was appointed as the new academic development lead on fostering inclusive education practice at University of Exeter.  I now work towards making learning at the university inclusive and accessible for everyone. 

Guided by the principles of Universal Design for Learning I studied during my Masters, I now write training and staff resources to develop teaching and assessment practice that is inclusive by design and support university lecturers to anticipate diversity and difference among the learners in their classrooms.

What advice would you give to other students?

Make the most of the opportunity to tailor your studies and assignments to fit your own setting.  I was able to study what interested me and what was valuable to autistic people in my workplace.    Be curious about everything and ask questions – your tutors have a wealth of knowledge and experience to share with you, if you ask!