Growing up in a former coalfield village just 20 minutes from Durham, studying at Durham University was always a dream of mine. As a child, I regularly visited the city, exploring the Castle and university grounds and walking along the cobbled streets. Those visits sparked an ambition that stayed with me throughout my education. I often imagined the day I would walk those same streets as a Durham student, wearing my college gown and crossing the Cathedral during graduation. That dream became a reality when I received my offer email while I was in Collingwood, Canada. I often imagined the day I would walk those same streets as a Durham student, wearing my college gown and graduating in Durham Cathedral. That dream became a reality when I received my offer email while on holiday in Collingwood, Canada. Having left my college preference blank on my application, I had no idea which college I would be assigned to. When I opened the email, I discovered that I had been placed in Collingwood College. Sitting thousands of miles from Durham in a Canadian town that shared the same name as my future college, the coincidence felt almost surreal. To me, it was a strange stroke of fate and a sign that Durham was where I was meant to be.

I often shied away from the vibrant student life at Durham, being a student who lived at home and also worked. You could often find me in the Education Library, a building where none of my courses were delivered, but one I gravitated towards because of its unique architecture and peaceful atmosphere. From ski trips to the Hummus Club, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in unique communities, bringing together students from across the world in spaces defined by a real sense of shared experience. My course was second to none, with professors showing such passion for criminological theory and a real energy that reflected how much they valued criminology in shaping and understanding our sociological landscape. This approach strongly influenced my own work in the charity sector, where I continue to apply many of the ideas and perspectives I developed during my studies.

Although much of my learning was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, some of my fondest memories at Durham came from engaging with such unique and thought-provoking modules. One of the most memorable experiences was having the opportunity to communicate with prisoners as part of the 'Inside Out' Module. There really is no other university that offers experiences like this, which not only deepen academic understanding but also challenge you to consider perspectives you may not have encountered before. These moments had a lasting impact on how I think about criminology and the wider social world.

Since leaving Durham, I have discovered my passion: working in the charity sector. I have always felt strongly connected to my local area and committed to supporting its development, whether that means protecting local wildlife or helping children living in poverty. I am currently proud to work as a Grants and Corporate Manager at Love, Amelia, a charity supporting children and families in the North East living in poverty who are without the essentials they need, such as warm clothing or a safe bed. In this role, I lead on securing funding from a range of sources. Drawing on the writing, data, and analytical skills I developed at university, I continue to build partnerships and secure funding that directly supports vital services in my local area.

Being a Durham graduate has inspired me to aim high and feel confident in pursuing ambitious career goals. My time at Durham provided a strong foundation and a sense of motivation that continues to drive my professional development today. In my career, I am often the youngest person in the room, but I have developed the confidence to contribute meaningfully and act as a trailblazer in my field, thanks to what I would describe as my “Durham drive”. My career highlights include: - Leading fundraising campaigns such as the Christmas Big Give, raising £20,000 in 7 days by connecting the local public with families in need - Securing funding for conservation and wildlife projects at a local nature reserve, helping to improve access to nature for the wider community. - Securing over £200,000 in funding in my current role to support children and families in the North East living in poverty with essential items.

My advice to anyone considering joining Durham is simple: do it. It is a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience with so many opportunities that open doors long after you leave. If you are local, I would also say: break the stigma. Durham is for everyone, and there is a place for you regardless of your background. Most importantly, I would encourage students to get involved as much as possible. Join clubs and societies, and don’t be afraid to meet people from all over the world- those connections are what make the experience truly special.

Alumni engagement gives me the opportunity to reflect on my achievements while celebrating how far I have come since graduating. It allows me to recognise the value of my time at Durham and how it continues to shape both my confidence and my career.