Sarah Brook

Sarah Brook graduated with a degree in Child and Adolescent Mental Health in November 2021.
Sarah Brook Graduate Story Profile Image

Sarah said she struggled with academic achievement until she discovered that she had been living with dyslexia for most of her life. 

She initially studied for a Foundation Degree in Creative Art Therapy Studies with the City of Bristol College, before completing a top-up degree at Worcester, graduating with a First Class Honours in Child and Adolescent Mental Health. 

“I’ve finally achieved a degree on my third attempt, thanks to the extra support I received, “she said. “I am so grateful for that support, and totally thrilled that I finally succeeded.” 

Sarah, who has lived with depression and ADHD for most of her life, overcame a range of personal challenges and showed incredible persistence in completing her degree at the third attempt, which only makes her achievement in securing a First all the more remarkable. 

“I have attempted to study for a degree twice before, but owing to my mental health, my neurodiversity, the pressures of being a single parent and of being bereaved of both parents, I didn't complete them,” she said.” 

And Sarah is convinced that taking full advantage of the support on offer from the University and Disabled Student’s Allowance (DSA) played a crucial part in her success. 

“I am convinced that taking full advantage of the extra support from Disabled Student's Allowance, such as a regular mentor and the assistive technology provided was the key to my achievement this time around,” she said. 

“DSA provided me with a specialist educational mentor who I saw once a week for support. This was invaluable in helping me keep motivated and complete my degree.” 

Sarah has now secured a job working in one of the key areas that she wanted to pursue after her studies, but she has not ruled out a return to study, possibly with a Masters, in the near future. 

Allied Health and Community at Worcester