At United Colleges Group, we believe that our students and staff are at the heart of our community. Here we feature inspiring interviews with our diverse and talented members, showcasing their experiences, achievements, and insights.
Dive in to learn more about the personal journeys, academic pursuits, and professional accomplishments that make United Colleges Group a special place to learn and grow.
Laura Hiraldo Ramirez - Level 3 Extended Diploma in Business
Laura is studying a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Business. She's an important member of the student ambassadors' program and also holds the position of Vice President of the Student Union at the City of Westminster College. Laura is passionate about representing, supporting, and advocating for those who may not have a voice.
1. Why did you Enrol at the City of Westminster College?
“I wanted to take a step out of my comfort zone, and to meet new people. I have a lot of friends who do not have access to the facilities that we have here at the City of Westminster College. Since being here, I have also been lucky to attend a couple networking events, something that I wouldn’t have been able to do at my local sixth form”.
2. How has the City of Westminster College helped you grow professionally and as an individual?
“At home, I am one eldest of six children meaning that I take a lot of the responsibility on board. Whilst being at College, my time management and organisational skills have got better. College prepares you for your next step whether it be university or finding work. It is independent here, but the teachers still give you support and encouragement".
3. Are you involved in any of the college's extra curricular activities?
“Yes. So, I have always liked leading and taking initiative. In primary school and secondary school I was class captain and member of the student union, and I am now the Vice President of the Student Union here at the City of Westminster College. I do this because I am creative, and like to voice my opinion and the opinion of my friends and other students".
Recently the City of Westminster College has introduced several study booths across multiple floors at our Paddington Green Campus. The idea was suggested to staff members by Laura and other members of Student Union. The study booths have been a huge hit and have since improved the facilities, alongside the study and social spaces for students at the College.
4. What is your desired career path and how do you plan on getting there?
“When I was in secondary school, I was set on being an actress. I initially enrolled in the College's Performing Arts programme but moved to a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Business as it gives me an opportunity to work in a range of different areas like Real Estate, Marketing and/or Management within a Creative Industry".
5. Can you share any advice for students who are looking at studying at United Colleges Group?
“Just be you, College is a great time to embrace who you are as a person. Look at ways to improve yourself and have a goal, something to aim for. I often ask people, 'where do you see yourself in five years?'. If you don't feel as if you are making a step towards achieving your five-year plan, then stop what you are doing and focus on things that will get you back on track!".
Gashtiar Mohammed - Extended Diploma in Computing Level 3
Mohammed moved to the UK little over three years ago, and has spent all three years studying at the College of North West London. Mohammed is a passionate advocate for positive change, and this is evident through his desire to improve his college community as a Governor in the Student Union.
1. Why did you Enrol at the College of North West London?
“If I am honest, I had no idea where to enrol. My family and I moved to the UK little over three years ago speaking very little English. At the time we were working with a social worker who suggested that I study at the College of North West London. I was very hesitant as I didn’t know the language, and I didn’t know any other students, but I have been lucky enough to meet some great students and teachers throughout my college journey”.
2. How has the College of North West London helped you grow professionally and as an individual?
“I have received a lot of advice and guidance from teachers, staff members and other students at the college. The teachers have taught me to work hard and to stay focussed, two things that I think are very important in everyday life”.
3. Are you involved in any of the college's extra curricular activities?
“This is my second year as a member of the student union. Last year I was awarded student union member of the year, and this year I have taken more responsibility within the group as the Governor of the Student Union. I do this because I like to help people, and to be a voice, especially for those who don’t feel like they have one. I have also recently progressed to the second stage of the World skills Competition, focusing on Cybersecurity. I was encouraged by a teacher to partake in the event, it's been good. Cybersecurity is what I want to do as a career, so I enjoy it”.
4. What is your desired career path and how do you plan on getting there?
“I want to work in Cybersecurity, it’s my dream job. After completing the Extended Diploma I will look to get an Apprenticeship in Cybersecurity. Apprenticeships are good because you can learn and work at the same time. They are more practical which will suit my learning style better than University”.
5. Can you share any advice for students who are looking at studying at United Colleges Group?
"To study hard and to enjoy being in college. It is a place where you will make a lot of friends, especially if you are willing to take a step out of your comfort zone”.
Mike Lezama - Lecturer in English for Speakers of Other Languages
Mike brings his passion for culture and diversity to his role as an ESOL lecturer at the City of Westminster College. With over 15 years of experience, he is dedicated to creating a welcoming and enriching learning environment for his students.
1. What inspired you to become a teacher?
“When I was at University, I did a degree in Sociology. One day, I did a personality quiz which suggested that I look into Teaching. It wasn’t necessarily something that I had previously considered but I thought it would be cool”.
“I also trained in Thai Boxing all through University. The coaches believed in me and made me feel like I could achieve anything. Recognising the similarities between teaching and coaching, it became clear that I wanted to go into teaching to empower students, install self-belief and unlock their full potential”.
2. What made you decide to teach ESOL?
“I was initially drawn to teaching Sociology, but this changed when I was encouraged to look into teaching ESOL. I volunteered briefly and since then, I haven’t really looked back”.
“Teaching ESOL has different demands, its more than being a traditional teacher. Many of our students come from war-torn background so at times we work with social workers and youth support teams to coach and nurture these students. We also learn about a ton of different cultural norms, all of which we take into consideration on a day-to-day basis”.
“Teaching ESOL is all about using a culturally sensitive approach to help students grow. It’s a great career”
3. What is your most memorable teaching experience?
“It's hard to pinpoint one memorable experience. A recent experience was with a learner who had challenging behaviour. Throughout the year I got to know him a lot better and eventually gained his respect and trust. I appointed him to be the class attendance champion, the at the end of the academic year he was nominated for, and won an award for ‘Most Improved Learner’. Ultimately, it was about the almost unrecognisable transformation he made, and it was a lesson for me in patience and perseverance”.
4. Can you share any advice for students who are looking at studying at United Colleges Group?
“Be open to new experiences. College is more than just a classroom, it’s a launchpad for your future! It’s a time to form strong bonds with like-minded people and to make some incredible memories. Embrace every moment”.