Jump to accessibility statement Skip to content

Case Study

Kelly Stanley

BSc (Hons) Sociology


Kelly Stanley gained a 2:1 in BSc (Hons) Sociology and went on to complete a master's degree in Global Human Resource Management. She gained employment with the Care Leaver Covenant after graduating and is currently working at the University of Sunderland in the Home Student Recruitment team.

Before I came to university, I was classed as disadvantaged, coming from the care system. University was my chance to move on and make something of my life and grow as an individual, following my own path. There are thousands of people like me who leave care every year, and while university is not right for everyone, I think care leavers need to be encouraged more so that they can realise their full potential. A lot of the support you get just vanishes when you leave care. 

If it had not been for the BSc (Hons) Sociology course here at the University of Sunderland, I believe I wouldn't have the opportunities I have today. Upon graduating, I went into a role where I coordinated progression support for care leavers within a college group, on behalf of the Care Leaver Covenant. That was down to the skills, knowledge and guidance that the University of Sunderland gave me. Earlier this year, I joined the Student Recruitment team here at the University. It was an opportunity to work for a university that really cares for its students, from recruitment to graduation and beyond."

Please note, this course is not currently recruiting.

Published 13 July 2022

More case studies