9th settembre 2011
MSc student Paul combines postgraduate study with his job and fundraising for the Stroke Association
Combining postgraduate study with his job and a bit of fundraising is all in a day’s work for Paul Kelly.
The 22-year-old, who works as a network technician at Quorn Foods in Stokesley, is due to graduate with a MSc Network and Communications from Teesside University this autumn.
He is currently finalising his Master’s dissertation while juggling work and helping to raise funds for the Stroke Association after his dad Michael, suffered a severe stroke at the age of 48 earlier this year.
Paul, who is originally from Middlesbrough but now living in Newcastle, said: “My dad’s stroke was completely unexpected and people often don’t expect someone so young to suffer a stroke.
“He’s involved in a support group and has met people aged in their twenties who have suffered a stroke. It can affect people of any age, which is why I’ve raised around £600 through donations for the Stroke Association to help raise awareness.
“My dad’s stroke left our family in pieces, but the University was excellent, offering help and advice when and where needed. I really appreciate everything that has been done for me. My dad is now progressing really well, we are all so proud of him and his hard work.”
He added: “It’s been a really busy time with my postgraduate study and working too, but I’m the type of person who has to keep busy and always has to be doing something.
“I’ve been so deeply embedded in my MSc Networks and Communications, but I’ve not long left now. A lot of friends told me Teesside was an excellent University and I decided to come here to do the Master’s as they offered Networking, which I enjoy more than any other IT subject.
“I was also influenced by the fact that Teesside won University of the Year. I recently started working as a network technician at Quorn Foods and I know my postgraduate qualification helped and all the hard work has definitely been worth it.”