From A level failure to First Class Graduate

Judith Earnshaw felt disappointed when she failed her A level Chemistry. Now, 16 years later, Judith has overturned her previous result to achieve a First Class BSc (Hons) degree in Applied Chemistry at the University of Teesside. When she graduates today at Middlesbrough Town Hall, Judith will also be awarded the Teesside Science Award.

Judith, 34, from Stokesley, works as a Research Scientist at ICI Wilton. She is originally from Eaglescliffe. Although Judith failed A level Chemistry at 18, she passed two others and aimed for a first science degree at Teesside. However, her socialising overtook studying, and Judith was only awarded a certificate of achievement. Judith said: "I worked as a barmaid in a pub and there were too many other distractions! I didn't get my degree."

Judith followed this with a series of temporary jobs in laboratories and also lived in a yacht at the Hartlepool Marina, before sailing to the south of France. Upon returning to the UK, she rejoined ICI's laboratories on another temporary contract.

Judith's manager advised her to re-sit the A level Chemistry via distance learning after she gained a permanent post. Judith then enrolled on the University's Foundation degree in Chemical Technology, one of the first students to do so. This led to the Applied Chemistry degree, achieved after two-years of further study. ICI sponsored Judith through all her courses.

Judith said: "The degree was a lot of hard work but helps me to understand some of the chemistry involved in my role. I'm shocked to get a First and the prize, it's a big contrast to my failed A level! My parents, John and Diane are especially pleased. I'm the first in the family to get a First. My Dad has three degrees, so his achievements were a hard act to follow! Mum and Dad have now moved to Truro in Cornwall but will be coming to my graduation."

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