My experience as a mature postgraduate student.

We’ve asked some of our current mature postgraduate students about their experiences at Cardiff University. See below what Richard has shared with us.

What are you enjoying the most about your postgraduate studies?

The opportunity to study and share ideas about things I’m genuinely interested in – in my case that’s English literature – with some enthusiastic and intellectually curious people of all ages and many different backgrounds.

What was your main motivation to study a postgraduate programme?

There were two related and equal drivers. I wanted to start again, do something which despite a fulfilling career in another field, I felt I should have done forty years ago and prove that it was possible. Secondly I wanted to do something purposeful which could lead me in new directions (possibly to paid employment though not necessarily so) and challenge stereotypical ideas about retirement which seem outdated when thirty years of active life might well remain.

“I’ve encountered no ageism and the amount of learning support is luxurious compared to that typically provided to undergraduates in the 1970’s. The experience is occasionally slightly scary but more often invigorating.”

Have you benefited from the Welsh Government over sixties bursary?

Yes, I have benefited from the bursary. It did not affect my decision to take up postgraduate study because I was fortunate enough not to have been facing financial challenges, although as it happens unforeseen circumstances mean that the bursary will now make it easier for me to complete my studies.

What advice would you give to any other students over 60 years old considering postgraduate study?

Don’t worry about going for the challenge. I’ve encountered no ageism and the amount of learning support is luxurious compared to that typically provided to undergraduates in the 1970’s. The experience is occasionally slightly scary but more often invigorating.