Georgia Philip first joined West Suffolk College in 1992 as a student on the Access to Humanities course. Initially unsure about university, her first encounter with sociology changed everything – and set her on a new path. After completing a degree at Essex University, she returned to the College as a lecturer, eventually securing a part-time post teaching on the Access programme and sociology BA courses. During her time at West Suffolk, she completed a PhD with the Open University. In 2011, she moved on to a Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of East Anglia, where she continues to work in higher education.
Where did your journey with West Suffolk College begin?
I became a student at West Suffolk College in 1992, when I started the one year, full time, Access to Humanities course. I went on to do a Sociology degree at Essex University and once I graduated, I came back to do sessional teaching on the same Access course! In 1998/9 I got a part-time Lecturer post and taught on the Access course and taught sociology on the BA programme(s). Whilst an employee, I completed my PhD with the Open University. I left the College in 2011 to take up a Post Doctoral Fellowship at UEA, where I have stayed.
What made you want to do the access course?
The Access course changed my life! I was unsure about going to university, but when I studied sociology for the first time, that was it – the path was set! I also knew I wanted to be a part of the course after I graduated, so came straight back once that happened and did sessional work until a permanent post came up. The Access course was transformative for many people, offering a supportive, encouraging environment, along with carefully curated content, and the right mix of structure, challenge, and flexibility. I loved it, and I love then being part of it for other students.
What did your onward journey look like after studying at WSC?
I joined UEA in 2011, initially on a one-year Post Doctoral Fellowship, and then I worked as a researcher for 7 years before getting a permanent lectureship in 2019. I teach sociology on the BA Social Work degree, and BA Sociology, and deliver teaching and professional development in my research specialism which is fathers/fatherhood and father engagement. I have built a career as a sociologist working in an interdisciplinary way – an approach laid in the foundations of the Access to Humanities course. I have the same passion for sociology as I did all those years ago, and have gone on to have a rich, challenging, but satisfying career in Higher Education and Research.
What were your highlights during your time at the college?
The formative experience of the Access course, my discovery of sociology (and credit also to Jack Fawbert who was our sociology lecturer). I remember studying in the temporary/portacabin style buildings (which later became a car park, I think) and weirdly, I also remember getting 25p cups of hot chocolate from a vending machine over in the main building!
What advice would you give to future students of Eastern Education Group?
Take the first small step, grab any opportunity, and always persist!
