Studying for a degree in computer software development at Chesterfield College gave James Dietsch the chance to develop a career in something he loved after he was made redundant from a job in retail. He told us how studying at the college helped him turn a hobby into a career, and the other benefits of returning to learning on the university-level course in his early thirties.
Foundation degree to full degree and into employment
“I was always interested in IT but it was always more of a hobby than a profession. After I got my redundancy, I realised I needed something with a future so I started looking at degree options at universities close to home to fit around family life. I came across the Higher Education offering here and was pretty impressed actually because I could do everything from foundation degree to a full degree. It was great to know that I could work around the course and not affect our household income.”
Benefits of studying for a degree at college
“Group sizes on the course were small so you had plenty of access to immediate support which was a big benefit.
The fact that the courses were accredited by Sheffield Hallam University were a major plus too. You had all the benefits of being a Hallam student, like accessing the library 24 hours a day; couple that with the benefits of being a Chesterfield College student, and for me it was like 2 for 1 really.
A lot of people don’t realise you are also saving yourself about £2,000 in fees which is a massive bonus.
I think there was a lot more freedom on this course because you could choose a range of things within the parameters of the assignment. I enjoyed being able to think for myself on these projects.”
Returning to learning
“Coming back to education was easier than I thought and I think that was down to the class sizes here at college. Most of the students in my class were in their early twenties but we all got along really well and really supported one another. I think that was the biggest help of all.
I have loved learning about the technical side; things like how to build a web site or how to build an app for a smartphone. Also, what I have found really beneficial is some of the softer skills that we developed alongside, like how to present yourself and present to a group. There were lots of confidence boosting things.”
Developing a career
“Alongside studying I was a freelance software development consultant. I finished my degree in May then started working at college in June so it was great to go from student to employee.
What I learnt on my degree is now helping me in my role as a technical lead in the college’s digital centre. I have to work with contractors and I take the lead on various projects such as developing our Virtual Reality offer and an exciting 3D printing project.
Alongside being a technical lead in the Digital Centre at college I am also starting to teach some sessions. Doing this has helped me realise that one of my long term goals would be to get into teaching and college are supporting me through my PGCE.”
Digital technology centre is making a difference to students
“The new digital centre is used by a wide range of students; from construction and engineering to the digital technologies students. It has been great to work with them all to support them to use the centre to help them with their course. They have taught me a few things about their subjects too!
If I was doing the course now the digital technology centre would have made a massive difference. The equipment and software that is in there is out of reach for most students to buy themselves because it is so expensive but the centre gives them access to it to develop skills which employers will be looking for. Everything in the centre is industry standard so when the students finish their course they can confidently move on to work or university with the knowledge they need.”
Exciting projects
“There are two projects which really excite me. We are developing our 3D printing capabilities with huge industrial machines. When we have finished we will have enough knowledge and equipment to build Ironman! Alongside that, it is putting the finishing touches to the VR equipment and developing how it is used to enhance student’s experiences and learning.”