Student finds confidence to navigate the world of work

‌Despite scoring top grades throughout her Health and Social Care degree, Michelle Drinkald recognised she still lacked confidence and needed support to navigate the world of work.

Michelle was introduced to the Professional Mentoring Scheme and paired with Anne Tye, Sector Specialist for Creative Industries at Sunderland City Council, who, through their mentoring sessions, encouraged the mum-of-two to look beyond her limited ambitions by drawing on her own life skills.

Michelle said: "I wanted to work in a caring role, drawing on the experiences of my own background; I had to grow up quickly at age 17 when my mother died.

"Studying the Health and Social Care degree was fantastic, but despite getting top marks, I still lacked confidence. However, the mentoring sessions helped build my confidence, encouraging me to believe in my own abilities and apply for my current manager’s role.

"In addition to reassurance and career advice, Anne gave me practical support with my CV.

"I originally planned to become a support worker when I graduated, but Anne encouraged me to jump a stage further by successfully applying for a job as a team leader within an organisation that supports individuals with complex needs such as learning disabilities, mental health and brain injuries. I now manage support workers and love the job.

"I’d recommend mentoring to any student and encourage them to embrace all the university has to offer through Sunderland Futures to make you ‘work ready’."

Anne says she was impressed with the mentoring preparation, discussion and training groups she attended before sessions with Michelle.

Anne said: "Michelle is an intelligent, determined and capable person. Over the course of several sessions we were able to draw out her confidence and apply this to the field she wanted to work in. I’m thrilled she’s is now working as a team leader."

Go back to Mentoring page.