Anna, a passionate advocate for disability rights and an ambitious journalist from Loughguile near Armoy, recently achieved a First-Class Honours degree in Journalism.
Anna's journey has been marked by sheer resilience, determination and a deep love for writing. From an early age, Anna's passion for writing and advocacy inspired her to pursue a career in journalism.
Born with quadriplegic cerebral palsy, a condition affecting movement due to brain damage at birth, Anna faced significant complications early on.
"My birth had many complications. I have quadriplegic cerebral palsy, which means all four of my limbs are affected. For me, there is nearly always a delay in functions such as walking and talking. It impacts individuals from early childhood, both physically and mentally, as people can feel isolated. My motto is ‘don’t lie down to it.’
Choosing Ulster University was a natural decision for Anna, she followed in the footsteps of her family, who also studied at the Coleraine campus and was attracted by the supportive atmosphere she found there.
Anna faced the challenge of navigating higher education while managing long-term memory issues and physical limitations, but Ulster University's commitment to inclusivity and support for students with disabilities proved invaluable to her.
The university ensured she had easy access to campus facilities and support with daily tasks, such as the canteen staff carrying meals for her.
Despite the hurdles, Anna thrived academically with the support of her family, friends, and the dedicated notetaker provided by Ulster University. Her lecturers' understanding and encouragement played a pivotal role in her success.
“I am so grateful to my lecturers who never gave up on me even when I considered giving up. Without their motivation and encouragement to get me across the line I wouldn’t have graduated and now I have come out with a First. Their sheer determination inspired my own self-determination to get through and I went for it and got there.”
Looking ahead, Anna plans to continue her studies with a Master's in Journalism at Ulster University Coleraine this September. She aspires to a career in journalism focusing on stories that centres around people that give a voice to those who feel unheard.
“I like to get to the bottom of things and solve an issue and give people a voice. I don’t settle until it is solved.”
Her message to other students with disabilities considering higher education is one of encouragement:
"Go for it. Do not let anyone tell you that you can’t because you can, and you will."