A former Pathway to Social Science student has returned as a tutor
5 April 2022
Sikiya Adekanye completed the Pathway to Social Science which led her to degree studies. She now returns to Continuing and Professional Education (CPE) as a tutor to help others achieve their learning ambitions.
Sikiya achieved her masters degree in Social Science Research Methods in 2021 from Cardiff University’s School of Social Sciences and has now begun a PhD in Criminology. She shares her story with us here:
“I returned to academic study after dedicating many years to looking after my family. I was introduced to the pathway at the end of a stand-alone course within CPE called Women into Management. I was more oriented towards science subjects at school, so I was a blank slate as far as social science was concerned and frankly, I did not quite ‘get it’ initially.
“I found the tutors very encouraging and the gentle introduction to the subject built my confidence in developing social science skills. I was inspired by the guest PhD students that told us about their own learning journeys and their current research. By the end of the pathway course, I became intrigued by the subject.
“With the provision of mentorship and peer support groups, I was able to settle into the first year of degree studies at Cardiff University. I made friends and developed an interest in criminology. I completed my degree and was fortunate to secure an ESRC funded MSc/PhD Studentship within Criminology.
“I am now in the second year of my part-time PhD programme and delighted to be teaching on two pathway modules within CPE. I feel quite privileged to have come full circle, back to the department where my academic journey started.”
Dr Sara Jones (Coordinating Lecturer at CPE) commented: “We are so pleased to welcome Sikiya back to CPE as a tutor. I am certain that she will inspire others as a tutor who has experienced the pathway first-hand”
The Pathway to Social Science is just one of twelve pathways provided by CPE.