As a stubborn and tunnel-visioned 19-year-old, I thought I had it all figured out. I would complete my college course, secure an apprenticeship and start my career in sports journalism. There was no need to go to university. I didn’t need it.

Now 25, I look back on that and laugh. Since then, not only have I completed a three-year course at Leeds Trinity University, but I have also returned less than two years after graduating to start work in my role as Corporate Communications Officer. Never did I imagine that would happen. After all, university wasn’t for me.

The truth is though, changing my mind and enrolling to Leeds Trinity back in 2018 was one of the best decisions I have made. I found new friends, broadened my skillset, had a range of new opportunities opened-up to me and achieved my degree. What I appreciated most, though, was how comfortable and supported I felt during my time as a student. I was surrounded by people who wanted to see me succeed and had my best interests at heart. That stretches from my personal tutor, someone I now class as a friend, to the mental health practitioner in the Wellbeing Service who helped me through some tough times in my third year.

That positive and encouraging environment brought the best out of me and I graduated from University with First-Class honours. I was also awarded the ‘School of Communications Prize for outstanding academic performance’ and won the Yorkshire Evening Post’s accolade for local digital journalism excellence. I was and remain delighted with the outcome of my university experience and there is no doubt in my mind that the guidance and reassurance I received played a big part in my accomplishments.

All of that left a lasting impression, so when I somewhat lost my way and decided to move out of the sports journalism industry, coming back to Leeds Trinity in a professional capacity was something I hoped would be a possibility. For all the reasons I’ve already mentioned, I was confident it was a place that would enable me to progress my career and develop as a person.

Conveniently, the position I am now in became available at just the right time, and I had no hesitation in enquiring further and submitting my application. The job title may be slightly different to what I have been used to but many of my skills are transferable and some of the day-to-day duties are surprisingly similar.

At the time of writing, I am almost two months into my new position and all of how I remembered Leeds Trinity to be remains the same. My colleagues have made me feel incredibly welcome and have been brilliant in regard to showing me the ropes as I settle in. I already feel a part of the team and I’m looking forward to being able to contribute more as my understanding of the role grows.

It has been great to be back on campus too, even more so having spent the second half of my degree confined to my house due to the pandemic. There are plenty of faces I recognise, and I still (mostly) remember how to get where I need to be, which always helps. In some ways it feels like I’ve never been away, and although it’s still early days, I already get the sense I’ll be as happy here as a member of staff as I was during my studies.

Sam Charlton is Corporate Communications Officer Leeds Trinity University.