Devon, Insight2Uni Mentor

Devon Ellison, an ambitious student from North London, joined the Insight2Uni programme seeking clarity on his post-sixth form options. Although he was initially exploring degree apprenticeships, Devon needed real-world guidance on university life, the definitive value of a placement year, and a structured way to select his final institution. He was looking for direct, honest insight that went beyond standard university brochures.

“Seeing someone that's got a similar sort of background to you literally makes you think, ‘Oh, I can achieve that. It’s definitely within reach.’ Having a mentor within the same background definitely breaks that glass ceiling.”

Devon, Insight2Uni Mentor

Outcomes

Devon joined the programme seeking a definitive direction. The structured support drove two critical, immediate decisions that reshaped his educational path. The Insight2Uni campus visit to the University of East Anglia (UEA) was a defining moment, offering a deeper, "Vibe and experience" than a standard open day. Devon cited this visit as the main factor in selecting UEA as his final university choice.

Furthermore, his mentor strongly advised him on the value of integrating a placement year, successfully shifting Devon’s focus away from degree apprenticeships to pursuing a university course with built-in corporate experience. The programme's initial focus on goal-setting and opportunity mapping ensured his application process was targeted and efficient, allowing the next steps to, "Sort of flow naturally."

Lasting Legacy

Being mentored provided Devon with long-term benefits beyond his UCAS application. The powerful reinforcement that, "If someone else has done it, you can do it," instilled a robust self-belief, helping him overcome initial doubts about belonging at university. He also developed stronger professional communication skills by engaging with the programme’s diverse "mini community."

Crucially, the advice on placement years directly translated into professional success: Devon is now undertaking a placement year at HP, fulfilling his initial goal of attaining corporate experience. He strongly recommends the programme, affirming it had a "big impact on my uni and education career."