Emily Hatfield
Emily Hatfield’s academic path wasn’t linear. Initially enrolling in Primary Initial Teacher Education, she soon realised she didn’t want to limit herself to one career. After switching to History and Politics, she finally settled on Sociology and Politics at the University of Worcester, subjects she had loved at A-level. This flexibility allowed her to explore her interests and ultimately led her to a career she hadn’t originally considered.
“I have really loved my time at the University of Worcester and without my degree I wouldn’t now be on the journey I’m on,” she said.
Emily is now embarking on a Level 7 apprenticeship to become a Chartered Accountant and Tax Specialist - a significant shift from her initial dream of teaching. Her passion for politics, especially understanding how financial decisions impact society, made this career a natural fit.
“It’s a bit of a change from wanting to be a teacher but I’m really looking forward to it,” she said. “I’ve always been a politics nerd and enjoyed watching the Budget and thinking about how it impacts people, and so this job feeds into that.”
As a member of the Debating Society while at university, Emily honed her communication and critical thinking skills - skills she credits with helping her secure her apprenticeship. The society gave her the confidence to articulate ideas and engage in meaningful discussions, complementing her academic achievements.
Emily, a former student at King Edwards in Stourbridge, chose to commute to Worcester for her studies.
“Although Birmingham was closer, I didn’t want to go to a big city,” she said. “I had been to Worcester before and really liked it as a city and so I went to an Open Day at the University and knew that it was where I wanted to go.”
Now, with her new job based in Worcester, Emily is finally making the move to the city she grew to love.
“I guess I’ve done things a bit backwards,” she laughs. “I feel ready to move now, where I wanted to stay at home before.”
Emily’s story is especially powerful because she’s the first in her family to go to university. Her parents, who didn’t have the opportunity themselves, were unwavering in their support.
“They wanted me to have the opportunities they didn’t have.”
Though she considered an apprenticeship after school, Emily chose university for the broader opportunities and the joy of learning.
“I knew that going to university would give me more options. I also loved studying at college so I knew that I would enjoy university.”
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