Alison Duckworth
Social Studies
To find out where Alison loves to spend her time in Southend (when she is not studying of course!) simply click on the hot spots on the map to the right.
- Why did you choose to study in Southend?
- I chose South East Essex College because I didn’t want to go miles away for a course I could do on my doorstep. My decision meant I could stay local and it’s not as if I missed out as Southend has plenty going on – it’s a really buzzing town.
- What course did you study and what have you achieved?
- I studied for a BSc in Social Studies and I left with a great understanding of people in general. To be honest, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do as a career, but I knew I wanted to work with people. My course was closely linked with teaching and training and so now I have my foot on a career ladder and I’m looking forward to climbing towards success.
- How did your time at South East Essex College help you prepare for ‘real life’?
- Studying in Southend really helped me prepare for real life. I worked with people of all ages – fresh faces and more mature students with life experience – and that mix meant I’ve had a great grounding for the real working environments I’ve faced since leaving South East Essex College.
- Away from the college, what did you enjoy doing in Southend?
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There are some great pubs in the town centre. One of the best is probably the Last Post. It’s a great place to go, especially for students. There are lots of places to drink along the front too – from Southend to Old Leigh.
For more of a night out, I’d often head to Churchills, which is a fantastic relaxed venue – a casual club with a low-key atmosphere. They always have lots of events on. I also loved going to Chinnery’s, an amazing live music venue on the seafront – you always get great bands visiting there!
If I’m looking for some retail therapy, I head to the High Street. There’s an H&M and a Topshop... everything you need to get great clothes.
Southend is full of things to do, no matter what you’re interested in. There’s a handy swimming pool in the heart of town at Warrior Square – much cheaper than signing up to a gym and lots more fun too! And of course there are always shows on at the Cliffs Pavilion and Palace Theatre – what a great night out!
- What would you say to someone thinking of studying in Southend?
- South East Essex College has so many opportunities on offer, especially outside of the classroom. There are incredible chances to get involved in real life work and those experiences add another dimension to your studies. I’ve always lived in Southend, I studied here and now I live and work here too... Southend has everything you could ever want.
