Former St Mary’s University, Twickenham (SMU) student Chelsea McDonagh has been selected to feature in Universities UK’s 100 Faces campaign, celebrating first-generation students.
The 100 Faces campaign celebrates the stories and achievements of 100 students and graduates across the UK, who were the first in their family to go to university. The aim of the campaign is to amplify the voices of first-generation students by exploring their background, what they’re doing now, and how going to university changed their lives.
Chelsea graduated from SMU in 2018 with a first-class degree in Physical and Sport Education, after being the first person in her family to attend university.
Talking about her background and journey to university, Chelsea said, “As an Irish Traveller whose parents had little knowledge of the education system, from a young age I didn’t think that going to university was something that a Traveller could do. But when I finished school and college, I received really great support from my teachers, who really encouraged and gave me the confidence to apply to university.”
Since graduating from SMU, Chelsea has helped set up a widening participation programme to open the doors to other Gypsies and Travellers. She also speaks at conferences and events, facilitates workshops and training, and has had many travel opportunities.
Reflecting on her time at SMU, Chelsea said, “It sounds cliché to say it, but university was life changing for me. Looking back, I knew it was a pivotal moment, but I probably didn’t realise just how much.”
You can read Chelsea’s story and how St Mary’s University helped shape her journey here.