BA (Hons) International Labour and Trade Union Studies

Student Profiles

Chris Hendy-Isaac

Why you came to Ruskin?

I came to Ruskin after attending some short courses here. The Short Courses I enrolled on varied from Psychology to Assertiveness, also Managing People and Activities to Study Skills. I was very impressed with the level of teaching Ruskin offered and the fact that the students I met came from across the whole of the UK. The reputation and history of Ruskin took a little longer to filter down to me in nearby Blackbird Leys, Oxford!

What you were doing before coming to Ruskin?

Before I came to Ruskin I was employed as a Senior Customer Relations Adviser with Zurich Assurance in Swindon. I had been considering returning to full time study for a number of years and the Short Courses at Ruskin in addition to other part time study helped to quench my need for educational stimulation. Having been made redundant from my job, it seemed like an ideal opportunity to get back into education and finally get a degree level qualification. I took a gap year approximately 14 years ago and now was the time to finally go to university and realize my full potential. I turned down six job offers in order to study here this year.

How you are finding the courses?

I am currently studying a Certificate in Higher Education in Law and Labour Relations. The course is both challenging and fun. Ruskin generally has mature students so you have a wealth of experience amongst the student body, and in my chosen subjects you have lecturers who have a vast amount of experience from practiced solicitors to active trade unionists who conduct research on behalf of recognized trade unions.

What you hope to do after Ruskin?

After I successfully complete my Certificate in Higher Education I will go on to complete my degree. I have yet to decide whether I will specialize in Law or Labour Relations. I am fortunate enough to be able to complete a degree in International Labour and Trade Union Studies here at Ruskin or go to nearby Oxford Brookes to study Law.