History and politics student Lewis Melville is continuing the family tradition, following in his mum, stepdad and sister’s footsteps as the fourth member of his family to graduate after taking Edge Hill’s Fastrack course as the route to a degree.
24-year-old Lewis, who lives in Liverpool, has excelled in his studies and extra-curricular activities – all made possible through the intensive seven-week Fastrack programme:
“I left college in my first year to take up an apprenticeship in IT networks. I worked there for five years but I was looking for something else. The level 3 diploma didn’t give me enough UCAS points to apply directly to uni, so the Fastrack course was a perfect way to get there. It taught me how to write academically and gave me practice in presentations. I then felt like I was a step ahead when I did my degree. It obviously works as my sister’s also got a degree in business, my stepdad one in computer science and my mum one in counselling and psychotherapy!”
Lewis has certainly made the most of the opportunities at Edge Hill, bolstering his career prospects and positively impacting people’s lives through his political research. As a self-taught guitar player, he’s also breathed new life into the Music Society, resulting in it winning the award for the University’s most improved society.
And during his three years at Edge Hill, Lewis has been awarded both a University and Excellence Scholarship, recognising achievements outside of his studies and for raising Edge Hill’s profile.
This has included researching for the British Sign Language Bill on behalf of former West Lancashire MP Rosie Cooper, submitting Select Committee Reports for Edge Hill’s Politics Lab following calls for evidence, speaking at conferences and interviewing prospective politicians.
As a first-year student, Edge Hill supported Lewis in spending four weeks in India to broaden his cultural understanding and teaching skills. And recently, the University selected him to take part in the RIMES Research Project examining the UN’s Sustainability Goals. Lewis chose economic growth, producing a 30-minute documentary on how AI is impacting labour markets.
Lewis is excited and open to where his qualifications and experience will take him. Having almost stood as a socialist candidate in the recent local elections, he sees his passion for politics as part of his future.
“I’m currently working as a teaching assistant and I’m looking to take my PGCE next year. I’ve done lots of different work and had a range of experiences, so I’m quite flexible with the jobs I’ll ultimately consider. I see myself being an active trade union rep wherever I work.
“My advice for anyone thinking of University? Start with what you’re passionate about and then take a pragmatic look at what career opportunities are available in the subjects that interest you. Edge Hill will offer valuable experiences beyond your course, helping you explore your interests and boosting your career prospects.”
Find out more about our Fastrack programmes at Edge Hill University.
August 7, 2024
