Kerri set to continue her academic journey at Teesside University 

Kerri Coyne is continuing her academic journey at Teesside University after returning to education to switch career direction.

Mature student Kerri, 40, from Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire, graduated from the BSc (Hons) Marketing.

Kerri had previously worked in a policing role but returned to education after spending time overseas.

“I had previously worked as a Police Community Support Officer but left that job when I got married and moved to Cyprus. While living overseas, I took up photography and started my own photography business,” said Kerri.

“When I returned to England with my two children, I decided to return to study after my youngest child started school. I gained A-Levels in creative practice and completed a business access course, which complimented my photography business.

“It led me to become very interested in marketing and I visited Teesside University when looking at marketing and photography degrees.

“As a single mum with two children, I visited four universities which were close enough for me to travel to. After visiting Teesside and speaking to the lecturers, I was won over with their passion for the course. I was also very impressed by the campus.

“Juggling studies with family life has been challenging, especially when I was first starting to find my way,” said Kerri.

“I found that being a mature student gave me a good start as I had had life experience that could be applied to certain aspects of the degree. I loved the fact that we were able to work with live clients and get real hands-on experience.”

During the second year of her degree, Kerri was accepted onto the University’s FUEL programme, which helps students seeking to set up in business.

Kerri said: “It was a seven-week intensive course, which I thoroughly enjoyed. It has sparked my passion to pursue my own business with the aim of making it my main income.

"Studying marketing at Teesside University has been one of the best experiences of my life. My advice would be to embrace all of what there is to offer,” said Kerri, who is continuing her studies with the MA Multimedia Public Relations.

“If you’re a mature student who is a little nervous about starting again, don't be afraid to take that jump as you’re never too late to start a new dream.”

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