College was a challenging experience for Ruby. But studying a foundation year gave her the chance to make a fresh start, discover a new community and grow in confidence.
I’ve learned that the only person
in charge of my life is me
Take a look at the profiles of other students who started their journey with a foundation year at the University of Hull.
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Name
Ruby Turford
Foundation Year
2023 - 2024
Degree
Drama with Foundation Year in Media and Communication
I came straight here after college, which had been a challenging time for me. I didn’t meet great people there and I arrived at university with very few friends. However, once I started I made a lot of friends, especially with other students who were also doing the foundation year.
I’d wanted to study acting since I was 14, so coming to university felt like a fresh start. It was the first time I had ever moved away from home.
It allowed me to break away from the routine of seeing the exact same things I had for eighteen years and gave me a completely new outlook on life.
It has been a great opportunity, although it hasn't always been easy. During my first year, I found things quite stressful at times. That pressure temporarily affected my enjoyment of acting. By my second year, I had improved significantly both as a person and a performer. That growth really helped me enjoy university life a lot more. I honestly don't know where I'd be right now if it wasn't for this place.
When I applied, my options came down to this university or a course in London. When I was offered the foundation year here instead of the standard degree, I called up the admissions team to ask what it meant, thinking there had been a mistake. They explained that because of my grades, they wanted to offer me the foundation year as an entry route.
When I realised I had got in, I was with a friend and I was just ecstatic. I was so happy that I had got the grades and could start planning.
Looking back, the foundation year completely reshaped my way of thinking.
Ruby's story: a fresh start
2 mins
They were absolutely over the moon. Not a single person doubted me, and I am incredibly lucky to have such a great support network back home keeping me motivated.
I knew I had to do a lot of growing up, and honestly, figuring out how to do that was the scariest part for me. I also had to overcome academic challenges, particularly managing tight deadlines. In college, we had three months to complete a single piece of coursework, but at university, you are expected to write several essays in that same timeframe. While that feels manageable to me now, it was completely overwhelming at first. Over time, I figured out how to balance it all.
Looking back, the foundation year completely reshaped my way of thinking.
Outside of class, I spend a lot of time hanging out and meeting up with friends. I also joined a sport I really like, dodgeball. It is incredibly fun because no one takes it too seriously, which is exactly why I enjoy it. Everyone gets along well and it's just a nice, welcoming environment to be around.
Don’t feel like you're less of a person just because you've been offered a foundation year instead of the direct course you originally wanted. That is exactly how I felt at first. Instead, look at it as a safety net and an opportunity designed to help lift you up.
The only person who can stop you from doing what you want to do is you. People can project their doubts on to you, but they're not in control of your life. I have learned that the only person in charge of my life is me.
Put real commitment into socialising and networking. Go to your lectures, and if you are struggling, don't be shy about reaching out. You can even email your tutors if you don't feel comfortable talking to them in person, because they will always find a way to support you.
Most importantly, never stop believing in yourself.
