Case studies: University of Sheffield: Ashton Kelly

Ashton Kelly is studying for a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) at the University of Sheffield

I decided to continue studying for a number of reasons. The most important is that it enables me to gain qualified teacher status (QTS), something that is essential if I wish to be a teacher.

I had hoped to gain some experience in a graduate job and leave my PGCE application until my late 20s. However, the availability of graduate jobs in the current economic climate meant this was no longer a viable option. Choosing to study now, at the age of 23, seemed the logical choice.

What I enjoy most about my course is the opportunity to work with young people. The PGCE at the University of Sheffield involves two placements in secondary schools, as well as an initial placement in a primary school.

As an aspiring teacher, working with young people is something I love doing and this is the main focus of my course - meaning I get to do something I love while gaining a valuable qualification.

Furthermore, I've made lots of new friends who are in the same position as me, providing me with the support that I feel is a vital part of postgraduate study.

I chose to study in Sheffield as I was an undergraduate here and wanted to stay after I graduated. The city has a fantastic atmosphere and is not too big that it feels intimidating. In my opinion this makes it a good place for young people.

The University of Sheffield has a reputation for producing outstanding teachers. I'm hoping that by choosing to study as a postgraduate at Sheffield I will have a strong foundation on which to build when I begin my career as a teacher.

My advice for students considering postgraduate study would be to make sure you're certain it's the right thing for you to do. It's a fantastic experience, but it's expensive and it's tough.

The economy at the moment means that postgraduate study seems like a good option if you want to gain an extra qualification that will give you an advantage and delay the process of having to seek employment. This is true to an extent but you've got to weigh up the advantages against the costs.

You have to feel passionately about what you are studying as a postgraduate, and if you don't have that passion then you won't be able to succeed at your course.

Postgraduate study is very different from undergraduate study. Particularly on my course. As a postgraduate there is a higher level of expectation, and the studying is much more intense.

The day-to-day life is different. I'm not going to lie, there are a lot fewerless nights out and skipping lectures. But it's still a lot of fun. The level of dedication to your course is certainly higher, but I think that in itself is a great thing, because a postgraduate should enjoy their subject.