An Isle of Man university student fought back against illness to graduate with a first class honours degree in psychology.
Ashleigh Johnstone, whose parents live in Douglas was first struck by ME, or chronic fatigue syndrome, while a pupil at St Ninian’s High School in Douglas.
‘This severely impacted on my education as there were many days where I could barely get out of bed. Luckily, my school was supportive and they helped me formulate a plan to complete my English and maths GCSEs through on-line learning,’ she said.
‘At A-level, they again allowed me to do what I was able to at the time. My health had started to improve and I was able to start considering university, which is something I was worried about missing out on.’
At a higher education fair in the Isle of Man, she spoke to staff from Bangor university who said her application would still be considered despite having only two A-levels.
After starting her degree in psychology and neuro-psychology at Bangor, Ashleigh got involved as a mentor, course representative, open day guide and email buddy, as well as travelling to Krakow and Aushchwitz on a second year field trip.
‘I have genuinely loved my three years at Bangor and have tried to make the most of my time here. At some points throughout my degree I struggled with my health because you can have periods where you feel great and periods where you relapse again.
‘After a few months at university, I really started to struggle and considered dropping out because of my health, but the disability services and my tutors were wonderful and have always been very understanding. It’s very exciting to be graduating.There were a few occasions where I didn’t think I would make it but the staff in the school were all so supportive.’
Now Ashleigh is looking forward to starting a funded Master’s and PhD at Bangor in September.
‘It’s a really exciting project and it means I get to stay at the university. I’m looking forward to the next four years,’ she said.