When I was younger, I wanted to be a ‘pop star’. I would write poems and lyrics in my ladybird notebook, and although I didn’t have the best singing voice, writing was my creative and emotional outlet. As I grew up my career aspirations changed. I went through a whole variety of ideas, from teacher to therapist. One thing I was sure of though, I didn’t plan on going to university.

In both primary and high school I struggled academically, I was unsupported and alone. I didn’t ever feel smart enough to go to college or university. In high school I chose optional subjects which I enjoyed, rather than ones that suited my academic standing. I had one teacher, my drama teacher who saw my potential, who helped me to thrive. After high school I went to sixth form, where the same teacher offered self-belief and guidance.

I ventured into the world of work soon after, but I clearly wasn’t cut out for it, I was the odd one out, and although the work was manageable, the people weren’t very understanding of my then undiagnosed needs. I left work and attended higher education, enrolling on an Access Course. This is where my love of psychology began. My passion was evident, and my interest grew, so much so I applied to university.

I was diagnosed Dyslexic and Dyspraxic early in my second year of university, followed by an Autism diagnosis, and this made my life clearer. I was able to process the past, reflect on the present and explore the future. This is when I really began to flourish. I was given the tools and support to thrive. I no longer felt alone, like I was struggling, I felt capable.

University changed my outlook on life, it changed the way I saw myself. I was given a whole range of technological equipment, including a laptop with specialist software, this changed my work ethic. I suddenly could see my strengths and focused on them, rather than what I couldn’t do. My brain thinks faster than my hand can write, so having a laptop was absolutely monumental for me.