Double graduation celebration for mum and daughter

It was a double celebration for mum and daughter Michelle Tierney and Keeley Eastbury who graduated together from the same Teesside University degree.

Michelle and Keeley completed the MA Leadership and Coaching, joining graduates celebrating academic achievement in ceremonies at the University’s new state-of-the-art Digital Life building.

Keeley said: “Studying the same degree as my mum at the same time is something I’m incredibly grateful for. We are extremely close and to have the opportunity to support each other academically was amazing. We attended lectures together and spent time studying together which was lovely.”

Having previously completed the BSc (Hons) Death Investigation, along with a PGCE Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector and PG Cert in Medical Law, Michelle’s Teesside University journey continued further with postgraduate study.

Michelle said: “I developed an interest in coaching while completing a programme where I received professional coaching for the first time.

“I was amazed by how powerful and transformative the experience was and I became increasingly curious about a career in coaching and supporting others. I had a really good experience, which led me to want to return to study a master's degree.”

Michelle added: “I enjoyed exploring different coaching models and approaches, and how they can be adapted to suit different goals and needs. The opportunity to reflect on my own coaching style and develop practical skills made the learning experience more meaningful and relevant.

Keeley said: “My mum was studying leadership and coaching, and I became really interested. The idea of helping others grow and develop through coaching really resonated with me.

“I had already started postgraduate study in a different subject, but it wasn’t the right fit for me. Leadership and coaching felt like a more personal and impactful direction, so I decided to take the leap and switch degrees and I’m so glad I did.

“I’d previously completed the BSc (Hons) Crime and Investigation at Teesside and had a great experience. The campus has a welcoming atmosphere, and the facilities are excellent. Also, being close to home made it easy to commute, which really helped me balance studying with other aspects of life.

“I really enjoyed stepping into a completely new subject area. This course was a huge shift from my undergraduate degree, but I loved being challenged to think differently, and I appreciated how the course encouraged both personal and professional growth.

“My ultimate career goal is to become a university lecturer and pursue a PhD. I’m passionate about education and supporting others on their learning journey. I’d love to be able to contribute to that environment, both as a teacher and as a researcher.

Keeley, who works for the North East Raising Aspiration Partnership, and is based at Teesside University, said: “I spend a lot of my time going into schools in the North East, engaging with young people to highlight the value of higher education. I draw on the theories and coaching techniques I’ve learned during my course to support and guide them in identifying their goals and working towards their ambitions.

Keeley added: “During my time as a student, I spent a lot of time in the library, it was a great space for studying, researching, or just getting into the right headspace. I also really enjoyed the Buttery, the postgraduate hub at Teesside. It became a place for catching up with friends and studying in a relaxed environment.

“Higher education can be truly life changing. It’s not just about getting a degree, it’s about developing as a person, gaining confidence, building life skills, and seeing the world differently.”

Michelle added: “My career aims are to build a fulfilling career in the coaching and training field. I am particularly interested in helping individuals unlock their potential, navigate challenges, and achieve their personal and professional goals.

“This degree has enhanced my knowledge and practical skills in coaching. It has given me a solid foundation in coaching theory and practice, and it has helped me develop the confidence to pursue coaching as a career.”

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