Celebrating student successes at the Certificate Holder Celebration
Birkbeck’s Certificate Holder Celebration saw students come together for a memorable afternoon tea.
The iconic Senate House was the venue for the recent Certificate Holder Celebration, which saw 95 students recognised for being awarded Certificates of Higher Education.
Professor David Latchman, Master of Birkbeck, welcomed students and staff, congratulating the students on their achievements and delivering a speech reflecting on how the College has remained true to its mission of widening access to education since its foundation, nearly 200 years ago. This year Birkbeck celebrates 100 years of being a member of the University of London, and Professor Latchman reiterated the value to students of the affiliation.
Faranak Pourzamanie, who recently completed a Certificate of Higher Education in Management and is now studying BSc Accounting and Management with Finance at Birkbeck, said:
“I’m so grateful for how Birkbeck has changed my life. I came to the UK in 2016 with no qualifications. I was rejected from a number of universities before my friend introduced me to Birkbeck. My application to Birkbeck was successful and I came to live in London, a city which I wasn’t familiar with. Birkbeck encouraged me to push myself and work hard, and the lecturers have been great, helping to support me with different aspects of education and living in London. I’m improving step by step! I have been to many Birkbeck events and listened to a number of guest speakers who have really inspired me. I have recently set up my own business, with the help of Birkbeck’s Pioneer programme.”
Veronika Vassiljeva, who completed a Certificate of Higher Education in Psychology, added:
“It’s easy to be an international student at Birkbeck. The lecturers are so supportive and have helped me improve my grammar. I enjoyed studying for my Certificate so much and I have now enrolled onto a short course in mental health at Birkbeck.”
Professor Anthony Bale, Executive Dean of the School of Arts, commented:
“I’m so proud of our students for all their achievements. It’s inspiring hearing their unique pathways that led them to their subject; how the Certificate has helped them carve their future; and how many are coming back to Birkbeck for more.”