Overcoming my fear of transitioning into higher education

By Aisha Seedat

Photograph: DMU Leicester

Hello, my name is Aisha. I studied a B.A (Hons) in Health Studies at De Montfort University and graduated in 2019. I have a rare genetic condition called Morquio Syndrome, which affects me physically but I have not let this hinder me in life. Instead, I have braved many storms and one of them was transitioning into Higher Education which was a beautiful life-changing moment for me.

Before attending what was your fears? And how did you overcome them?

Before starting University, I already had a lot of fears. During the time of my A-Levels, I became quite ill and spent a lot of time in hospital so I had no hope that I was going to start University, which caused the onset of my depression. I always said to myself that I would never let my disability put me down, so why should I now? 

I was determined and hopeful to succeed, and in the end I managed to get into my dream University to study what I always wanted, Health Studies. 

Did you ever have unpredictable absences over the three years for health appointments, scans or surgeries? If you did, did these affect deadlines, and what got you through that? 

My health was quite reasonable until the end of my first year. It gradually deteriorated further which caused me to be admitted into ICU. I remember the scariest thing being told was that I may not be able to make it out alive, and that family members should start “preparing”. 

It was quite daunting for me to think that I have gotten this far and I did not want to give up another dream on my bucket list. Eventually, with the right treatment, I felt okay. Though I was discharged, it took me longer to recover. Fortunately, the university was quite understanding and advised that I should extend some modules so I can hand in my assignments two weeks later or, defer the whole year and restart when I felt better. I went with the decision to extend as I needed to focus on getting better.

What would you say to someone applying to college or university?

To those of you that are applying to college or university, remember this is your journey to becoming independent. Before applying, make sure you are open about the support you need otherwise you will struggle.

All universities have something called a DSA (Disabled Student Allowance) but first, you’ll need to be assessed on whether you meet their criteria. ‘Disabled Students' Allowances (DSAs)  can provide additional support and funding to UK students in higher and further education.

Submitted: Aisha Seedat

It is extra funding designed to ensure a level playing field for disabled students and can be used to pay for specialist software, computer hardware and a range of study support and extra resources.

More information can be found online and you can contact me too, via my Instagram @iiamaish. Make sure you are reading and are well prepared. 

You will face certain challenges but remember the university is there to support you in many ways. Universities are now more acceptable to our needs and especially the people or friends surrounding us are far more welcoming. 

My motto is, “If I can do it, so can you”, so I believe you can aim high with the degree that you choose. Remember to think wisely with the degree that you chose to study as this will be a stepping stone for your future.

What would you say to their parents?

This is a chance for your child to blossom into adults and you’ll be so proud once they have started and completed each semester that goes by. University is not easy so be patient, you just have to have a lot of faith and support your child when things get tough. 

Now that you have completed the course what would you say was the main thing that kept you going? 

I’ve always had faith that I will complete this degree no matter what. I had the most phenomenal support from my lecturers and I built a strong relationship with them. Having someone to believe in you when you are at your lowest, uplifts you and keeps you motivated. 

I never let my disability put me down in achieving what I want in life. For example, the degree is a huge milestone for me. I always say this, “if I can do it, so can you”.

About Author: Aisha Seedat is a Project Coordinator for Access Rating CIC. She is a Guest Speaker at De Montfort University, a Young Ambassador for the MPS Society UK, a Motivational speaker and Mental Health First Aider. Her interests lie in, Mental Health and disability, disability and islam and promoting disability inclusion especially within communities #BreakingtheBarriers. You can find her on: Instagram: @iiamaish Twitter: @aishseedat LinkedIN: Aisha Seedat