Magdalena Garbaciak (Magda), 44, is graduating today with a degree in Exercise, Health and Nutrition at Leeds Trinity University, which she believes was “meant to be” as she started working towards finding a purpose and better career prospects four years ago.

Magda, who is a mother-of-one, originally from Poland, never planned on going to university. But after living in the UK for over a decade and working in catering and hospitality, she decided to find her “life’s purpose” and work towards a career she was passionate about. Magda has always been interested in health and nutrition, a subject she used to study in her own time, out of sheer curiosity, before studying at Leeds Trinity University.

Four years ago, prompted by a friend, she decided to start looking into university courses that would align with her interests, and she chose Leeds Trinity, not only for the spot-on course provision, which was exactly what she was searching for, but also because the circumstances felt like it was meant to be.

“I was struggling to find the purpose of my life and what I’d like to do. My friend recommended Leeds Trinity and when I looked it up, I found that there was an Open Day the following day. As soon as I got there, I was just in time for the session that introduced the course. I felt that this was a sign. Coincidentally, I was also just finishing my GCSEs in English, which is exactly what I needed to apply to university as a foreign national. So many things fell into place, it felt like it was meant to be,” Magda said.

As a mature student, Magda had to overcome numerous challenges that could have prevented her from completing her degree. She said: “I refused to give up. Amongst childcare, home schooling my son, and other family and work struggles, I had to re-take my second year, and submit assignments under mitigation a few times. But I knew this was what I wanted to do, so I kept persevering. I still can’t believe I got a first on my dissertation. I was going through a lot while writing it, and I am still in shock at my result. I couldn’t have done it without the support of my lecturers, and other incredible people at Leeds Trinity University.”

Despite having to balance many aspects of her life with her full-time studies, Magda never hesitated to take on new opportunities. She completed a work placement in second year, an internship in third year and a gym instructor and personal trainer qualification, which was offered as part of her course.

Magda advises other mature students considering going to university later in life not to be afraid and use their broader life experience as a strength. “I was doubting myself when I started my course but, looking back at the transformation I’ve seen in myself over the past four years, I’m so proud of how confident I am now. I’m ready to pursue a career in my chosen field and follow my passion for nutrition,” she said.

Dr Danielle Davis, Senior Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Science at Leeds Trinity University, said: “Magda has had many significant challenges to deal with on her journey at Leeds Trinity. With hard work, resilience, perseverance and support from her tutors and the University, she has done outstandingly well.

“She is a role model to all our students, she supports her peers and offers encouragement to others when needed. Magda has stretched herself to delve into topics beyond her degree and has engaged with all opportunities that have been put forward to her. Well done, Magda, we are extremely proud to see you graduate and wish you all the best going forward. We can’t wait to see what you continue to achieve.”

To find out more about studying a Sport and Wellbeing course at Leeds Trinity University, visit the website.