Ballyclare student excels at Belfast Met

Sarah Toal completed her Access Diploma in Combined and Behavioural Science this year, after completing her A Levels in History, Sociology and Creative Writing at the Titanic Quarter campus.

Sarah moved to Northern Ireland five years ago from Melbourne, Australia where she grew up, and since studying at Belfast Met hasn’t looked back.

She said: “My parents are from Northern Ireland, so we moved back here when I was 17 to spend more time with my grandparents and relatives.

“Belfast Met was great for me, as I didn’t know anyone my own age when I got here, and I’ve made some really good friends now.

“My teachers were really supportive which helped improve my self-confidence. We went on a trip to the Jordanstown campus at the University of Ulster to find out more about course options, and I’m now in my first year studying Psychology there. I’m looking forward to the placement next year when I can decide which area to specialise in.

“I’m really enjoying living in Northern Ireland and have gone straight into second year at Ulster University in Coleraine. It’s not quite the student experience I’d hoped for this term due to the pandemic and look forward to when things get back to normal so I can get a trip back to Melbourne.”

Principal and Chief Executive of Belfast Met, Louise Warde Hunter, confirmed: ”On behalf of the college, I would like to congratulate our exceptional Class of 2020.

“I am incredibly proud of what our students have achieved during a very difficult year, and in completing their qualifications.

“I wish our graduates every success in their future endeavours and for the continuation of their learning journeys.

“Our Higher Education Graduation is one of the most prestigious events in our academic calendar and though the pandemic has taken away the opportunity to mark this event together, it is still a wonderful day of celebration.”

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