Niall Johnson

I decided on a change of career, to work with and support people. Prior to university, I was working as an area manager for a successful food manufacturing company, and I’d trained as a chemical and nuclear engineer. However, these roles didn’t satisfy my ambition and conflicted with my moral compass. I soon discovered my experiences would be very relevant to my criminology course and I was able to implement them into my studies, which I loved!

I chose Edge Hill University because of the amazing facilities. The campus is self-contained, so I didn’t have to travel through busy cities to fulfil my learning. I also loved how passionate and caring the SPLD and inclusion team were before even arriving at Edge Hill.

My favourite part of the degree is the range of topics to which the subject applies, from generalised crimes to environmental harms, music harms and so much more. It really develops your critical thinking and gives you a whole new perspective on the world.

The top three skills I’ve developed during my degree are:

• Confidence
• Critical thinking
• Organisation

My most memorable moment would be the impact the staff have had on me. They daily show their compassion and support to me. Providing knowledge, experience and an amazing environment which I feel happy, safe and able to thrive.

Edge Hill University is an amazing place. The staff are the heart of the University. They always go above and beyond to support you. Every time I interact with them for academic or personally needs, I always leave with a smile on my face and hoping that when I move into a profession, I can have the same impact on the individuals I work with.

My favourite place on campus is the cafe inside the Catalyst building that serves the best coffee. I also love the Catalyst building as it’s diverse in its ability to suit all learning needs and offers plenty of support if needed.

I’ve utilised the Inclusion and SPLD team who’ve enabled me to fulfil my work to the highest potential. The lecturers have been a massive support on my journey and made juggling work, university, children and running a house manageable and more enjoyable.

Edge Hill has given me plenty of workplace opportunities to help refine and develop new skills. I was also awarded the Excellence Scholarship along with the High Achiever award, which gave me motivation and the reassurance that I was doing the right thing.

When I graduate, I’m going on to do a social work masters. My plan is to secure a role within social work as well as supporting and conducting research to improve practice and policies.

For anyone considering studying criminology at Edge Hill, my advice would be to speak to the lecturers. They’re amazing people to talk to on both an academic and personal level. Come prepared and open-minded. Be proactive with your work and fully immerse yourself in the opportunities and experiences that the University and the course have to offer.