International Student Celebrates First Class Degree

International Student Celebrates First Class Degree
An international student who could barely speak English four years ago has achieved a first class degree from the East Lancashire Institute of Higher Education (ELIHE) at Blackburn College.
Iraqi student, Ata Arif of Malham Gardens, Blackburn, was elated to discover he had achieved a First Class degree with Honours in Criminology and said he owed his success to the support of staff at ELIHE.

Forty-two-year-old Ata, who is married with four children, started at ELIHE in 2003 where he completed a HNC in Criminology. After gaining a distinction, Ata transferred on to the BA Honours degree course in 2003.

Ata said, “Without the support I received at ELIHE I would not have got through my degree and achieved the results I have.”

“They helped me educationally and financially. I felt like I was with friends rather than tutors. When I first came to Blackburn College, my spoken English was very poor and tutors were hesitant about letting me onto the course – they felt it would be too much.”

“I persevered and achieved a distinction in my HNC and now a First Class degree. I am very proud of my success and I think everyone who supported me is too – their help and effort was not in vain."

“I chose to come to ELIHE as they helped to fit learning around my personal situation. I also chose to study at Blackburn as the academic standards are as high as any other university but just provided locally. Their commitment to students and learning is fantastic.”

In addition to achieving top grades, Ata is also heavily involved in voluntary work and helps other families who have come to live in the UK adjust to life. He also carries out administration and computing duties for the Arabic School every Saturday morning at Blakewater College.

Ata hopes to continue his education by taking a Masters in International Relations, specialising in how immigration is affecting the world.

Blackburn College’s East Lancashire Institute of Higher Education is celebrating record results with 22 students achieving a First class degree and 48% of students gaining either a First class or 2:1 degree.