A former ESOL (English for speakers of other languages) student is well on her way to becoming a lawyer after completing an ESOL course at Solihull College & University Centre.
23-year-old Ramish Shakoor left Pakistan in 2021 for a new start. She comments: “It was a new beginning, and I struggled to understand what my future goals were and how I could achieve them. Many people doubted me and told me that I would never be able to go to university or build a successful future here. But I refused to give up and I knew I had to start somewhere.”
Ramish enrolled on an ESOL course at the College. She studied for two years, with English and Maths as part of her studies. Ramish is full of praise for her tutors: “My ESOL tutors were the first people who truly supported and guided me towards finding my career path. The Careers Team at Solihull College also played a vital role. Their support and guidance were exceptional. I met people from so many different backgrounds, and I learned a great deal from their experiences and perspectives. During this time, I discovered my passion for Law and decided to pursue it as my profession, even though I wasn’t sure where to start.
“I became a Student Representative, an incredible opportunity that helped me develop communication and leadership skills both essential in a legal career. I learned how to deal with people from different walks of life and how to help solve their problems. My tutors and the Careers Team continued to guide me, showing me the different routes to university and explaining how I could become a lawyer, even without traditional qualifications like GCSEs or A-Levels.”
Ramish completed Functional Skills Level 2 in both English and Maths, followed by a Level 3 Access to Higher Education course – completing a seven-year academic curriculum within just four years.
Today, Ramish is a proud Birmingham City University (BCU) student, pursuing her dream of becoming a future lawyer.
ESOL lecturer, Glykeria Theodoulou, is full of praise. She comments: “It is fantastic to see Ramish’s progress and accomplishments. Her determination, hard work and perseverance are admirable, and we are so proud of her. Our Access to FE ESOL course offers students the opportunity to develop their English, Maths, IT, employability and personal development skills in an inclusive environment. Our goal is to support learners like Ramish to develop their confidence and communication skills needed for further study and employment.’
