Graduate inspired by mum to write new chapter
After attending her mum’s graduation, Kuda was inspired to follow in her footsteps and study at Staffordshire University – three years later she has graduated from the same course…
Kuda Phiri, 22 from Etruria, decided to keep it in the family and study BA (Hons) English and Creative Writing after her mother, Edna Connick, completed the same degree.
“I was unsure what I wanted to do after A-Levels, whether to go to work or university and I was unsure about the courses because I’ve always liked everything, but in the end I decided to go with English Literature,” said Kuda.
“It was always interesting hearing my mother talk about the books and the course work. I’d attended her graduation, met the lecturers there and that’s when I decided straight after to apply for this course.”
After applying to Staffordshire University through Clearing, Kuda started her degree just three weeks later.
She said: “Through Clearing it’s very simple, you send your application, they give you a phone call telling you a bit about the course and whether it’s right for you. There’s a bit of a stigma around Clearing in that it’s just for people who haven’t received the grades they would have liked. But, for me, it was a case of I’m not sure what I’d like to do and, in that moment, I decided to go through Clearing. They made me feel very welcome, made me feel capable and prepared me for life at university.”
The English and Creative Writing degree is designed to help new voices emerge in the literary world with support from a highly qualified lecturing team of published writers and critics.
Kuda added: “My favourite thing about the course has been over the years, discovering my writing style and how I tackle things. In the end becoming a confident writer, compared to the first year. At Staffs you have a massive support network and they’re with you every step of the way… It’s amazing to be graduating.”
Kuda plans to continue her education journey by applying to do a Master’s degree and hopes her story will inspire others to follow their passion at university.
She says: “Make a list of all your passions and the things you enjoy and go to the open days to get a feel. Speak to the lecturers about the courses, speak to the people running the facilities and that will help you decide.”
Hear more about Kuda’s story on Staffordshire University’ Graduate Success 2022 playlist.
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