Daneka Mcguigan
BSc (Hons) Public Health 2016
Daneka graduated with a first class degree and is now studying a PGCE PCET English at the University of Sunderland. Once she completes the course she would like to teach in Health.
Daneka, who juggled her studies at the University with having children, managing other commitments, voluntary work and wedding planning, is currently putting theory into practice by teaching in the Public Health module at the University and English at HM Prison Durham, both on a voluntary basis one day a week.
“Teaching has totally taken me out of my comfort zone. Standing up in front of so many people for the first time is really scary but it disappears once you see people learning and enjoying the lesson you have prepared,” the 28-year-old explained.
Daneka, from Consett, always knew that she wanted to work in Health and was attracted to the University due to its reputation.
She said: “I always knew I wanted to work in Health but didn’t like the care aspect of Nursing. The Public Health programme was so well organised and personalised with great links to other organisations and outside speakers that I knew instantly that the course was for me.”
She continued: “Lecturers at the University inspired me to go down the teaching route. I became so much more confident and empowered over the three years I completed the course and felt like I wanted to go on and do the same for other students.”
As someone who has been involved with life outside of the classroom while studying, Daneka believes that taking part in the array of extra-curricular activities that the University offers is the key to growing as a person and ultimately finding success in the job market following graduation.
She advised: “Start volunteering long before graduating. Make full use of all the fabulous services offered at the University and make the most of networking.”