This is an automated archive made by the Lemmit Bot.
The original was posted on /r/newzealand by /u/therewillbeniccage on 2024-04-09 23:24:33.
Kia ora everyone
Yesterday I graduated my degree. I got to walk across the stage and receive my ticket.
I want to briefly offer my experience of further education in the hope that those who do not think they are up to it might see they can.
I grew up in a home that was physically, emotionally and mentally abusive. I've since come to learn sexual abuse was present in the home. I left school with nothing at 15. Not even ncea level one. I was encouraged by my Mum to study something I was interested in. At that time it was audio engineering. I did a uni entry course where I learnt how to write essays (I failed it once before I passed, it's ok to fail). I passed the audio diploma. Later I did a certificate in mental health and went straight on to the social work degree. It took me 6 years to do a 4 year degree but got there eventually. All throughout my studies I was managing poor mental health, addiction and money problems.
If you are in a similar situation, there are paths to higher education. You may need to lean more on student support like I did but the pathway is there. I didn't know anything about essays or academia but I learnt. There is support to help you learn these skills.