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Tegan Davies from Torfaen Learning Zone

Aspiring writer, Tegan Davies, talks about college life, confidence & future goals


22 February 2021

Meet the Learner

Name: Tegan Davies
Home:
Cwmbran
Course:
AS/A Levels – Media, English Literature, Law, Government & Politics
Campus:
Torfaen Learning Zone

As someone who enjoys writing essays and analysing as part of her learning, A levels were the ideal route for Tegan, who chose to study at Torfaen Learning Zone. With aspirations of becoming a writer in the future, Tegan also has an interest in law, politics and media, so a range of A Level subjects keeps her engaged.

Why did you choose Â鶹´«Ã½AV?

“I chose Â鶹´«Ã½AV because I wanted a good balance between my learning and private life, so with a college nearby and with great reviews, it was a no-brainer. I wouldn’t have wanted to travel far as in high school I had to get up at 5am, which ended up having a detrimental effect on my mental health and studies. Therefore, being able to wake up and be five minutes away from my college is great for me.â€

What do you like most about your course and studying at Â鶹´«Ã½AV?

“I love coming to college each day to study what I want. I get to spend time with my friends learning and doing what I love, which for me is ideal. I like the writing that comes with all of my subjects – I study a range of very interesting subjects and therefore I really like the modules that we have covered so far. All of my teachers are very lovely and helpful, and if I’m being honest the support I get from all of them is perfect.

There are a lot of positives about studying in Â鶹´«Ã½AV. All of my teachers are lovely and flexible in their teaching ways. They are all majorly intelligent and I admire them a lot – I learn so much each lesson that prepares me for my exams and further studies. The new Torfaen Learning Zone has amazing facilities, and as soon as the government allows it I cannot wait to go there.

It’s also really nice that that college has set up an LGBTQ+ group for us, as when we were in secondary school we had to hide it.â€

What are your long-term goals?

“After college, I have goals of attending an Ivy League/Russel Group university- preferably Oxford in Lincoln College to study English Literature and Language. After this, I would love to become a writer of some sorts, publishing fictional books. Â鶹´«Ã½AV so far has mentored me through my personal tutor to truly believe in myself and really begin to plan out my future so that I am successful.â€

What has been your biggest achievement to date?

“In college life, I achieved an award for exceptional attainment during this term. In general, I have won awards for my writing in high school, and achieved 7A*s and 5As at GCSE level.â€

Did you have any challenges prior to attending Â鶹´«Ã½AV?

“Prior to starting college, COVID-19 had been declared as a global pandemic and as a result we were in lockdown for months. I missed my last few months of high school, which would have included examinations, a school trip to Rome and the Vatican, and even prom. These were all things that affected me as I felt I was missing detrimental parts of my teen years because of coronavirus.

However, one thing that was certain throughout was my place in Â鶹´«Ã½AV. Throughout the difficult transition, Â鶹´«Ã½AV supported me and made me certain of my choices. Therefore, the college made the transition go from a seemingly difficult one to a relatively straight-forward one.â€

Any advice for students considering studying at Â鶹´«Ã½AV?

“Don’t worry too much about whether you have made the right choices or not. If you do not enjoy a subject a few weeks in, you can change it. I did it with Photography and Politics and it was the best decision.

Also, be yourself. I was notoriously made fun of in high school for the way I looked and dressed, and what I was interested in. When I came to college, I dressed exactly how I wanted without being held back by a uniform and found so many other people who were interested in similar things. I’ve gained so much confidence since joining Â鶹´«Ã½AV and actually have the courage to speak in front of the class, talk to people I don’t know, and stick up for myself without the fear of what other people will think.â€

At Â鶹´«Ã½AV, we’re a friendly, welcoming and diverse community where everyone is able to be themselves while learning, developing and reaching their potential. A Levels are a great route for learners like Tegan who are looking for varied subjects and an academic learning style. But our wide range of popular vocational courses and apprenticeships offer a more hands-on approach for those looking for a practical route. Discover the course that’s right for you at our next virtual open event or apply today via our website.