From student then to lecturer
Paul’s progress through the ranks
“A younger person may have different pressures from what I have – but when I was here as a student there was a broad range of people here from all different backgrounds.
“You end up all intermingling with each other and all bring certain stuff to the table.
“When I came here, my IT skills could have done with some improvement and there were individuals who could help me with that.
“There was also my technical knowledge because I had come from a construction background; meaning I was able to assist them. “We were all able to chip in a bit.” Paul admits it can be challenging at times as he aims to cater for everyone in his class.
“Standing in front of a class and talking about construction can be a daunting thought initially,” he admits.
“But when I was actually up there I felt like my knowledge came to the forefront.
“If you can see the students are interested in what you have to say it really helps.
“That’s when it becomes a job that gives a bit back. I feel like I’m doing a job that matters.
“When I was in my class group as a student I felt it was really rewarding to help others in certain areas they may have found more difficult. “I got a buzz out of that. “I feel like lecturers in here care and in many industries that isn’t the case. “It’s not just a job to people here. “You’re not just a number – people actually care.”
Despite a life-changing few years, Paul adds: “It couldn’t have worked out any better.
“Everything has been positive so far.”