Case studies: Part-time lecturer: Paul

Paul is now deciding whether to follow his work experience into more cardiac rehabilitation work or pursue an academic career.

Paul went straight from school to study economics at university and then entered work in the financial services sector. He worked in various roles before being made redundant in 2004. He used this experience as a catalyst for change and although viewing it as a 'bit of a risk at the time' decided to return to study. He decided on a foundation degree in Health Related Exercise and Fitness, given his interest in the subject, and it being broad enough to be used as a route into many other jobs. In addition, the course offered the option of doing a one year honours top up.

Throughout the course Paul sought out opportunities for additional work experience using it as a chance to try out different jobs, build contacts and as a step into paid work. This was successful, leading Paul into a portfolio career in which he does part-time lecturing, works in a cardiac rehabilitation unit, supports the research activities in the university and works in a gym.

Paul decided not to top up his degree to a full honours degree because he was already an honours graduate, but is currently looking at postgraduate study programmes including Masters and Doctorates. Five months after graduating, Paul is now deciding whether to follow his work experience into more cardiac rehabilitation work or pursue an academic career. He believes his foundation degree opened up many opportunities to him and he now has to decide which one to take. He notes not all foundation degree graduates will necessarily be in the same position, and thinks most may want to continue on to top up into an honours degree. He is quite unusual in having a degree already as well as many years of work experience. Paul advises foundation degree students to do as much work experience as possible both to try out jobs and as a route into paid work, even if they have worked extensively in the past.