From student to lecturer

After choosing to study at the University of Gloucestershire, Jack James, who now teaches Professional Policing, is now working alongside many of his former lecturers.

“I chose to study at UoG as I wanted to experience campus life, whilst also having the option to drive ten minutes outside of Cheltenham or Gloucester, to make the most of the countryside and activities on offer in a county like Gloucestershire,” he said.

“I also knew that the university was one of the top in the country offering my chosen course and the mix of practical and classroom-based learning appealed to me.” 

Jack started his adventure at the University of Gloucestershire in September 2013, choosing to study BSc (Hons) Criminology, and thoroughly enjoyed his at university.

“I cannot fault my experience studying at the university at all,” said Jack, “I truly loved my time here as a student. The staff are fantastic, the support on offer is outstanding and my course exceeded my expectations. I made some friends for life studying at UoG, some from my course, others through societies or mutual friends. I will never forget some of my experiences at UoG, from crime scene investigations to discovering a love of surfing after joining the Board Riders on a trip to Newquay in my second year, choosing to study at the University of Gloucestershire was one of the best decisions I have made.”

Jack also felt that his time at university inspired him to pursue his passions and interests, particularly in policing. He developed a real interest in policing, and his tutor and lecturers helped him throughout his application process when joining the police as a Special Constable.

His current role is as a lecturer on the BSc (Hons) Policing degree, as well as working as a serving police officer with the British Transport Police Special Constabulary at the rank of Inspector, which he alongside his full-time lecturing role.

And his advice for current and aspiring students is to make the absolute most of your time at University. “Take the opportunity to experience new things and utilise the resources available to you at the University of Gloucestershire. Most importantly, never hesitate to ask for help.”

Click here to find out more about Criminology and Policing at the University of Gloucestershire.