These are difficult times for everyone and so much of it is beyond our control but that does not make us helpless. It’s true that the current recession is causing an employment crisis but it won’t last forever and it is, therefore, the perfect opportunity to prepare ourselves by building the foundation we need for the future we want.
I was made redundant in 2009 and after a year of unsuccessful job hunting I made the decision to return to education and it was the best decision I could have made for myself as it put me back in control of shaping my own future. At first, I took courses where I could expand on my experience and previous training to build on my existing strengths. I later came to realise that my focus was too narrow and I was limiting my future potential opportunities. I, therefore, changed my mind set and attended courses outside my perceived “comfort zone” and discovered some hidden talents and hope to discover many more.
Qualifications are very important but there is also a lot more to gain in continued education. In the year I spent looking for work, I found it disheartening, to say the least when the majority of my applications were ignored. It became increasingly difficult to stay motivated under such circumstances and confidence is quickly lost and a sense of hopelessness sets in. Returning to education changes all of that, it restores confidence and provides the motivation for success.
Education is a very valuable and free resource that is available to everyone. We are all capable of far more than we think and the learning process proves that to us. Our futures can be far more rewarding than our past or present. Mary Byrne - Student