Sam is currently completing his dissertation for his MA in Social Research (Social Policy) at the University. He is also working as a youth worker and training to get a Level 3 qualification in Youth work, as well as running his own Youth Club. 

What are you enjoying most about work?

The thing I am enjoying most is is the people. The pandemic has made it hard, not impossible, to meet and make friends. But, these hurdles are things to adapt to. Learning in any context is about adaption and that is what I am enjoying. 

What is the biggest mistake you have made since graduating and what have you learned from it?

Not trusting my instincts more. I've learnt that you need believe and trust in yourself to get through life. 

What have you learned since graduating that could be helpful to other graduates?

I've learned to not give up. The right moments are there but you need to be open to them and accept that things do not always go to plan. You will get the life you deserve, for some it just takes longer. 

What is the best piece of advice you have been given?

The best advice I have been given is to not be too hard on yourself. You are going to make mistakes but living with them and learning from them is what growth is. 

How, if at all, has the pandemic affected your working life?

I never expected to be doing a Masters remotely or that I would be training in a profession I never thought in a million years I would be working in. There are so many negatives about the pandemic but what it has showed me in my working life is that connections are possible in any format. Opportunities are available but you need to adapt with the climate to find them. The pandemic has forced me to  adapt to new challenges knowing that the outcome I desire will be waiting for me. Whether I know it or not.