Aspiring writer, Tegan Davies, talks about college life, confidence & future goals

Meet the Learner

Name: Tegan Davies
Home: Cwmbran
Course: AS/A Levels – Media, English Literature, Law, Government & Politics
Campus: Torfaen Learning Zone

As someone who enjoys writing essays and analysing as part of her learning, A levels were the ideal route for Tegan, who chose to study at Torfaen Learning Zone. With aspirations of becoming a writer in the future, Tegan also has an interest in law, politics and media, so a range of A Level subjects keeps her engaged.

Why did you choose Coleg Gwent?

“I chose Coleg Gwent because I wanted a good balance between my learning and private life, so with a college nearby and with great reviews, it was a no-brainer. I wouldn’t have wanted to travel far as in high school I had to get up at 5am, which ended up having a detrimental effect on my mental health and studies. Therefore, being able to wake up and be five minutes away from my college is great for me.”

What do you like most about your course and studying at Coleg Gwent?

“I love coming to college each day to study what I want. I get to spend time with my friends learning and doing what I love, which for me is ideal. I like the writing that comes with all of my subjects – I study a range of very interesting subjects and therefore I really like the modules that we have covered so far. All of my teachers are very lovely and helpful, and if I’m being honest the support I get from all of them is perfect.

There are a lot of positives about studying in Coleg Gwent. All of my teachers are lovely and flexible in their teaching ways. They are all majorly intelligent and I admire them a lot – I learn so much each lesson that prepares me for my exams and further studies. The new Torfaen Learning Zone has amazing facilities, and as soon as the government allows it I cannot wait to go there.

It’s also really nice that that college has set up an LGBTQ+ group for us, as when we were in secondary school we had to hide it.”

What are your long-term goals?

“After college, I have goals of attending an Ivy League/Russel Group university- preferably Oxford in Lincoln College to study English Literature and Language. After this, I would love to become a writer of some sorts, publishing fictional books. Coleg Gwent so far has mentored me through my personal tutor to truly believe in myself and really begin to plan out my future so that I am successful.”

What has been your biggest achievement to date?

“In college life, I achieved an award for exceptional attainment during this term. In general, I have won awards for my writing in high school, and achieved 7A*s and 5As at GCSE level.”

Did you have any challenges prior to attending Coleg Gwent?

“Prior to starting college, COVID-19 had been declared as a global pandemic and as a result we were in lockdown for months. I missed my last few months of high school, which would have included examinations, a school trip to Rome and the Vatican, and even prom. These were all things that affected me as I felt I was missing detrimental parts of my teen years because of coronavirus.

However, one thing that was certain throughout was my place in Coleg Gwent. Throughout the difficult transition, Coleg Gwent supported me and made me certain of my choices. Therefore, the college made the transition go from a seemingly difficult one to a relatively straight-forward one.”

Any advice for students considering studying at Coleg Gwent?

“Don’t worry too much about whether you have made the right choices or not. If you do not enjoy a subject a few weeks in, you can change it. I did it with Photography and Politics and it was the best decision.

Also, be yourself. I was notoriously made fun of in high school for the way I looked and dressed, and what I was interested in. When I came to college, I dressed exactly how I wanted without being held back by a uniform and found so many other people who were interested in similar things. I’ve gained so much confidence since joining Coleg Gwent and actually have the courage to speak in front of the class, talk to people I don’t know, and stick up for myself without the fear of what other people will think.”

At Coleg Gwent, we’re a friendly, welcoming and diverse community where everyone is able to be themselves while learning, developing and reaching their potential. A Levels are a great route for learners like Tegan who are looking for varied subjects and an academic learning style. But our wide range of popular vocational courses and apprenticeships offer a more hands-on approach for those looking for a practical route. Discover the course that’s right for you at our next virtual open event or apply today via our website.