After I was invited by my university to apply for the Undergraduate of the Year Awards, I was touched but felt I probably did not stand a chance. There were so many talented undergraduates in the UK, who was I to apply? Yet it was free, so what did I have to lose? After reading through all the categories, I realised the Career Changer Award was the perfect fit for me and my story. As someone who had moved across the ocean to start a new career halfway through my life, I figured I may as well keep the ball rolling. I had no idea what awaited me!

I was thrilled to make the assessment round out of over 250 applicants! That benchmark alone was so encouraging. But the adventure was far from over. My placement meant I was invited to travel to London for an in-person interview at the prestigious international law firm, Clifford Chance. Arriving at the enormous, glittering skyscraper that housed the law firm was intimidating, but once I stepped through those doors, I felt so welcomed. Every staff member I met was warm and inviting. In addition, I met dozens of other fellow career changers, and we were able to share our stories with each other. It was very comforting to hear I was not alone in changing careers, and everyone was equally thrilled to be there. You could feel the excitement!

The interview process itself was a pleasure. We were already prepared for it by a Zoom practice group call the week before, so I felt ready. It was not nearly as nerve-wracking as I expected. My interviewer was professional, personable, and deeply interested in my story. I learned that being an Undergraduate of the Year is not simply about accolades and talent, but character. What you have overcome in the past is a sign of what you can endure in the future. A few weeks later, I discovered I had made the top ten! I never thought I would make it to the assessment round, much less as a finalist. Later, while attending the elegant ball where the winners were announced, I felt so cherished and seen. Going to university can make you feel a bit lost in the crowd, so being valued and celebrated not only for what I had done, but for what I could bring, meant more than I could measure.

Currently, I am continuing my education by pursuing a master’s in philosophy while working as a musician, editor, and writer on the side. It can be difficult to see your own worth. This experience was a treasure that changed how I see myself and my potential. So even if you are like me and you do not feel worthy, do not let that stop you from applying. You never know how far you will get, and who knows? You may just be the next Undergraduate of the Year!

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