Amy Quinn has achieved a BEng (hons) Civil Engineering First Class degree while juggling the care of two children and maintaining a part time job
A single mum who took a leap of faith and completely changed the course of her life by enrolling at the University of Central Lancashire, has graduated on the day of her 39th birthday with a First-Class Civil Engineering degree.
Despite having to juggle caring for her two children and maintaining a part-time job as a gymnastics coach , Amy Quinn’s determination to prove to herself that she’s capable of bigger and better things, meant her university experience as a mature student was at times like an emotional rollercoaster.
Amy, who is originally from Dalton-in-Furness in Cumbria where she attended Dowdales School but now lives in Chorley, said: “Looking back at how far I have come I had no idea I was this resilient. Pushing through the hard days built up internal strength and motivation.
“As a mature student who had not studied mathematics academically for more than 10 years, I struggled at first but the university provided extra study opportunities to bring my skills up to speed throughout my foundation year which enabled my success. I am extremely grateful for those who championed me towards academic achievement.
"Having the opportunity to work on a design project to generate sustainable concepts for the replacement of Preston’s Old Tram Bridge was fantastic as I feel strongly about improving infrastructure in the local community"
— Amy Quinn - First-Class Civil Engineering degree
“The University of Central Lancashire has provided the perfect opportunity to study close to home. The benefit of studying here meant my children would not have to move to a new city or move schools, the University also came very well recommended so I suppose it is like winning the postcode lottery of university experiences.”
Amy, who is a mum to Elizabeth (15) and Noah (13) chose Civil Engineering because the built environment is always developing and she wanted to embark upon a career where she could make a positive contribution to the world by thinking outside of the box to solve real life challenges.
“I really loved my whole academic experience and have appreciated learning from people with an industry background who could provide context to the knowledge,” added Amy.
“Having the opportunity to work on a design project to generate sustainable concepts for the replacement of Preston’s Old Tram Bridge was fantastic as I feel strongly about improving infrastructure in the local community.
“My message for any girl out there is you have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Your dreams can be achieved and the sky is the limit.”