'When I began studying I was a white van driver. Four years later I'm a senior facilities manager for one of the largest real estate organisations in the world.'
Matt Walker, senior facilities manager,
DTZ (Debenham Tie Leung) Ltd.
Matt's story
I needed a formal qualification
'After seven years of working within the facilities management sector I realised that a formal qualification relating to my career would not only sharpen my skills and improve my knowledge, it would also form a solid platform to further my career and enable potential employers to consider me for more senior positions.'
Part-time study was a natural fit
'I chose a part-time course as it allowed me to continue full-time employment whilst studying to gain a formal qualification. These two commitments seemed to be a natural fit.
'Studying a subject that directly related to my working life made it possible to incorporate both easily. You have to be disciplined to deliver reports and projects to given deadlines, but it was achievable.'
I had plenty of support
'The tutors are great and give you the support you require to study. When completing a report or project the tutors are either at the end of the phone or over e-mail to give you advice and support.
'Whilst completing my dissertation I would often send pieces of work to my tutor who was more than happy to discuss either over the phone or face to face which was enormously helpful.'
How I financed studying
'I researched the course content, fees and structure and how it would benefit my employer.
'I arranged a meeting with my managing partner and submitted my case, and I was lucky enough to be sponsored by my employer for three years.
'A career move meant that I financed the final year myself. I had to tighten the purse strings but the finance team at Sheffield Hallam were available for advice which helped enormously.'
Applying my new skills
'Part-time study allowed me to ease back into an academic learning environment and gradually regain my confidence and skills, and apply them into my working life.
I also found that if I was required to complete a field work report as part of a module I could use my workplace as an environment where I could gather rich data which assisted with my report writing.'
Studying has changed my life
'I didn't really know what I wanted from my working life and in what direction I should head next.
'I can truly say my study at Sheffield Hallam has changed my life and opened doors not accessible to me before.
'I would say to anyone considering part-time study, do it. Take the next step and submit your application form now, you won't regret it.'