Posted: Wed 19th Dec 2018

Glyndŵr graduate thanks university for its support after landing dream job

Wrexham.com for people living in or visiting the Wrexham area
This article is old - Published: Wednesday, Dec 19th, 2018

A graduate from Glyndŵr who has secured her first job in the industry she loves has praised the university for giving her the support she needed to succeed.

Natalie Griffiths, from Wrexham, graduated from the university last month with a 2:1 computing degree – and has already secured a job as a programmer for an insurance company.

However, when Natalie began her degree at Glyndŵr, she faced a series of challenges – and needed to draw upon the support which the university provides via its inclusion services.

“When I was younger, I had encephalitis and that caused some problems – so I began my education in a school for pupils with special educational needs,” explained Natalie.

Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain which is a serious condition requiring hospital treatment.

Natalie added: “I also have Asperger’s Syndrome and that made studying tricky sometimes when I started atGlyndŵr.

“However, people really took their time with me and the university also provided me with a support worker, Graham – he was so helpful and I can’t thank him enough. Whatever was needed – whether that was support with lectures, note-taking, or anything else – Graham was there to help and that really made a difference.

“The other thing that helped was that people were willing to make time to help students – when I did my dissertation John Worden, the lecturer who I was working with, would always make time to talk things through.”

Mr Worden – who is the Associate Dean for Enterprise, Partnerships and Employability in Glyndŵr’s Faculty of Arts, Science and Technology – said: “Working with Natalie was an absolute pleasure, and I am delighted she has secured a job – and that she graduated with a very well deserved 2:1.

“There is a lot of talk about inclusion, and Glyndŵr has been judged to be the most inclusive university in the UK by the Sunday Times.

“But it is through seeing that work in practice – where lecturers recognise the potential of students like Natalie, and work to make sure that potential is realised – that you realise its true impact.”

After completing her course, Natalie spend some time over the summer working with Glyndŵr’s careers team. She took part in the award-winning Make Summer Work for You programme, which helps boost students’ confidence and prepare them for the world of work.

She added: “I really enjoyed taking part in the programme and it helped when I got my interview with MD Insurance. Lots of people on the careers team really helped – Katie Brute really gave me some helpful advice, and I was able to draw on that support when I got my job.

“At MD Insurance, I am part of a team of software developers – we work together on software for the company and I’m really enjoying it – it is a great company to work for.”

Project Officer Katie Brute added: “The Make Summer Work for You programme was designed to help boost students’ confidence – and I am delighted it helped Natalie.

“We’ve been in touch since she got the job, and it’s great to see her so happy and making a success of her career.”

Find out more about the inclusion services Wrexham Glyndŵr University offers here.



Spotted something? Got a story? Email [email protected]



Have a look at...

Campaign launched to reduce motorcycle-related deaths and serious injuries in north Wales

Funding support for sustainable projects in Clwydian Range and Dee Valley

Level crossing safety plea to North Wales holidaymakers this Easter

Three ‘never events’ reported at health board during February

Clwyd South MS welcomes plans for baby loss certificates for bereaved parents

More detail on club accounts as owners will ‘continue to offer minority equity positions to strategic partners’

Turnover up 75% as Wrexham AFC say ‘losses shouldnt be repeated’ as payroll nears £7m

Off-road motorcyclists ‘using their bikes dangerously’ warned they ‘will be seized’

Saturday’s Wrexham Artisan Market to be ‘showcase’ of local and national products

MMA Event coming to north east Wales this weekend!

Rare newts thriving after north east Wales pond restoration

Plans for new studio flat above Wrexham fast food restaurant