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During a major life change, Sarah started taking online courses to get her bearings. It helped her build resilience and explore a new career in forensic psychology.
Rebuilding with Purpose
When Sarah enrolled in her psychology courses, she was navigating one of the most difficult periods in her life. In the midst of a painful divorce and trying to protect her home and stability, she knew she needed a new way forward.
“I can’t afford a solicitor, so I’m trying to do what I can. I need to get qualified so I can take on a proper role and pay the mortgage,” she says.
Rather than standing still, Sarah took action. She began studying online through the Association of Learning, first with a single Psychology course which encouraged her to then enrol to a three-course psychology bundle in Advanced Forensic Psychology.
Psychology That Makes Sense
For Sarah, psychology has always held a strong appeal.
“Everyone watches Criminal Minds,” she says. “But honestly, I’ve always found the psychology side really interesting. It just clicks with me.”
She’s still deciding exactly where she wants to go with it, but the idea of becoming a criminal profiler, or working within behavioural analysis, is at the top of her mind.
Her plan is to continue her studies and apply for a master’s programme through the government-funded two-year route. “It’s not a perfect situation, but I’m going to take whatever opportunity is available and make it work.”
A Platform That Fits Real Life
One of the things Sarah has valued most is the flexibility of online learning.
“The course was easy to manage and really enjoyable,” she explains. “I study when I can. Life is unpredictable right now, but being able to dip in and out has helped me stay focused.”
Sarah describes the support from her tutor as positive and helpful. Even when things were tough personally, the structure of the course gave her something to work towards.
“I’ve got a lot going on, but this has been something that’s just for me. It helps.”
Turning Difficult Experience into Insight
Sarah’s interest in psychology is personal as well as professional.
“I’ve lived with someone very difficult for 22 years. It’s made me look at human behaviour differently,” she shares.
Rather than letting that experience define her, Sarah is finding strength in learning and applying that understanding.
“There are things I’ve been through that I think can help me help others. That’s part of why I want to do this.”
Learning to Learn Again
One of the biggest challenges Sarah faced was simply re-engaging with study after a long time away.
“You have to read everything properly to understand the questions,” she says. “My son studies, and he gets it straight away. For me, I’ve had to build it back up, but that’s why I want to keep going.”
She’s already started collecting extra books, building her own knowledge library, and laying the groundwork for further qualifications. “The more you study, the more you learn,” she adds, simply.
Advice for Others
Sarah’s story is a powerful reminder that education can offer more than just qualifications. It can provide focus, purpose and hope, even in the hardest of times.
Whether you’re facing a fresh start, or simply want to understand people better, Sarah recommends starting where you are and moving forward step by step.
“Sometimes the worst moments in your life are what give you the push you need. Studying has given me something to work towards.”
Ready to Explore Psychology?
If you’re curious about criminal profiling, human behaviour or want to take your first step into psychology, the Advanced Forensic Psychology course is a flexible and practical way to begin. View the course.
0333 344 2126