“A life-changing opportunity to give back by teaching the very subjects I once studied” is how former Sandwell College star student, and now Business Studies lecturer Agne Cerniauskaite describes her unique experience.
Agne started at Sandwell College as an ESOL student way back in 2011, developing her passion for business and teaching, and accomplishing her career goals along the way.
She tells us: “It feels incredibly rewarding to come full circle. The fact that I can relate to the challenges students face, motivates me to create an environment where students in this college feel supported and inspired, just like I did.”
“The best part about working at Sandwell College is the opportunity to make a real difference in students’ lives. Sandwell College has always felt like a community, where everyone is invested in your success. As someone who benefited greatly from the college’s support throughout the years, it’s gratifying to now be a part of that system, helping students reach their goals. The staff and the students’ resilience create an inspiring atmosphere for both personal and professional growth.”
How has the college helped you develop your career?
“Sandwell College played a crucial role in shaping my career and I would not be in the position I am today if I did not have the support from my ESOL and Business Lecturers Maria, Satpal, Mohammad, Kulwinder, Annette and many more. From my early days as an ESOL student to achieving top grades in Level 3 Business (D*D*D), the college provided me with the tools and encouragement I needed to succeed. The college also offered me the opportunity to complete an apprenticeship in Business Administration while working in the Funding Data and Exams departments, giving me hands-on experience that complemented my academic learning.”
“This experience helped me build a solid foundation for my Marketing degree at Aston University, and now, as I pursue my Professional Graduate Cert Ed at the University of Wolverhampton, I continue to rely on the skills and experiences I gained here. The ongoing support and encouragement have been essential to my growth and ambitions.”
Do you feel like you’ve achieved all your ambitions yet or is there more you want to do?
“While I am proud of what I have achieved so far, there is always more to accomplish. I have fulfilled many of my goals, such as graduating with a Marketing degree and becoming a business lecturer, but I am driven by the desire to continually improve. The PGCE course I am currently pursuing is just one step towards developing my teaching skills further. My aim and ambition is to inspire more students, broaden my impact, and continue learning throughout my career as there is always room for growth.”
“I feel that my duty is to inspire and motivate students and guide them throughout the hard times. As long as you have a dream and the support system – you are capable of achieving anything and challenges faced along the way will only help you grow and become stronger!”
