"Anything is possible!"
Think you’re too busy to study? Nikesha Morris is a dyslexic mum of two – and has another baby on the way – who has recently graduated with a BA in Psychosocial Studies and Principles of Psychodynamic Counselling. This is her story.
I only learnt to read and write at ten years old
There were very high expectations from my mum who would just say, ‘Oh she can do it!’ I felt really embarrassed knowing that deep down I couldn’t. I was bullied in school. I was called ‘dunce’ as well. I wasn’t the smartest in class and it was quite a struggle which knocked my confidence.
Working in schools with parents and children to support their wellbeing was my way of caring for the child in me
But it wasn’t until I was working through my degree at Birkbeck that I reached out and received the necessary support from services at the College, and learnt that I was dyslexic. It’s funny because I felt it deep down throughout my whole childhood. It held me back.
It’s never too late, no matter what age you are or what your position is
Studying in the evening gave me time that I thought I didn’t have. I learnt anything is possible with organisations such as Birkbeck. It’s good to be honest in your own abilities and accept help wherever possible. There’s no shame in gaining knowledge from others.
Doing my degree at Birkbeck has been a life-changing experience
It’s been fraught with lots of challenges, but in those I’ve found growth through a renewed effort, reaffirmation of self-belief, and most of all faith. I kind of feel like it was an experience that was needed. I’ve learnt what support means – and I’m determined to put everything I’ve learnt into my career as a counsellor.
My husband wants me to calm down
I’m already planning a PhD – I want to be a doctor or psychotherapist or something like that. But with a baby on the way and two beautiful children already at home, my husband is telling me to take a break. But I don’t want to!
Elation doesn’t even close to describing the feeling of achievement I have
When I clicked the submission button on my final assignment and I knew that I was coming to the end of my degree. When I received the graduation email and my grades. They were some of the best moments of my life. I feel like I’ve reached a great summit. It drives home the mantra of being halfway up the mountain and keep on going. Never give up and just continue on the path to success.
Think you’re too busy to change your life? Think again.