Achieving a Personal Best - East Anglian Daily Times Education Page, 5 October 2004

There were many memorable moments from the recent Paralympic Games in Greece, but the interview that has stayed in my mind is the one with Tanni Grey-Thompson just after she had achieved her 11th gold medal by winning the 400 metres. The reporter, rather unchivalrously, pointed out that the athlete had reached the great age of 35 and asked whether she had ambitions to compete in the next Paralympics in 2008, to which she answered that if that was the case she would have to decide by this Christmas in order to allow sufficient preparation time.

Two things struck me about that exchange. The first is that Tanni Grey-Thompson brushed aside the age issue, made no reference to the failures she had experienced during the games, but just focused on the future and what could be achieved. The second, given the time scale she was considering, is that a major part of achievement is often through preparation. So perhaps it isn’t so strange for me to be asking you in October 2004 what your plans are for September 2005.

If you would like to explore your options there is no better way than to come along to an open event and see what’s out there.

With the largest number and widest range of courses within the county, Suffolk College can offer programmes from further education entry level right through to Masters Degrees. The open events give you the chance to talk to people who can provide expert careers advice, people who are subject specialists and people who can tell you what is available in the way of student support.

There are two open events coming up in the near future. The first is tomorrow, Wednesday 6 October, and you can drop in anytime between 4.00pm and 8.00pm. There will be information, advice and guidance on everything from practical skills and A levels to foundation and honours degrees, and postgraduate study.

The second is on Wednesday 13 October and will concentrate exclusively on the higher education programmes. Events taking place on this day include tours of the College facilities, talks on careers opportunities for Graduates and on student life in Ipswich, as well as academic subject talks. Naturally this is a slightly more structured day, so it’s advisable to book a space in advance either by telephone to 01473 296606 or by email info@suffolk.ac.uk. On the day itself, registration will be available from 10.30am and the programme will run from 11.00am until 2.00pm

That deals with the preparation. Is age an issue? There is a broad age range of students at Suffolk College, a mix that creates a culture of mutual support and gives what one student described as “a real community feel” to the learning experience.

So why not focus on the future and your own personal best?