Gail Keenan

Could you tell us a bit about yourself, your background, or anything you think is relevant? 

I've been involved in the Tourism industry and in teaching for over 20 years. I first studied Travel and Tourism when I was 16 and I was really inspired by my teachers. I thought teaching looked great, but I knew I also wanted to learn the industry that I was interested in.  

I then went on to become a travel agent for a long time but got the opportunity to do my initial teacher training in the early 1990s.  I then taught part-time teaching adult evening classes and then I got the bug. I loved teaching from then on! 

I started teaching at Newcastle College about 18 years ago and loved doing all sorts of professional development things. In the back of my mind, I'd wanted to do a Masters-level qualification but never had the time or the opportunity or the need for one. I started teaching higher education two years ago and there was the opportunity to do a Masters so that I could teach Level 6 and I just jumped at the chance.  

Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree at Newcastle College University Centre? 

What I really love about Newcastle College University Centre is that I know the support is fantastic here. I was terrified of asking for support and asking for help, but I knew it was here. The teaching staff on that course were really honest about what I could expect from myself. It was going to take time, but it would be worth it. 

What was it about this course that made you want to study a Masters Degree at Newcastle College University Centre? 

It was more about the modules that I was going to learn, they seemed relevant to what I was teaching day to day. I love that I can tailor my interests into my research. I also really like the way the course is structured. It's fortnightly over two years that it works with my workplace and life outside of study. 

What are the facilities like at the University Centre for your course, and more broadly as a student? 

The Turnbull Suite, with its brand-new computers and the feeling that you get when you're in there, is brilliant! It makes you want to work, and I definitely think it makes me more productive. I often use that facility as much as I can.  

We've got access to some brilliant resources through the Library too and I can access the e-library 24/7. We've got access to many of the relevant journals and things that I also need to be able to get hold of. 

What do you enjoy the most about your postgraduate degree? 

My lecturer, Leo. I'd love him to get a shout out in this! Leo's teaching style is inspirational. He makes learning an exciting thing to do and he makes my brain work in ways that it hasn't worked for a long time. I'm able to apply what I'm learning in my own classroom too! 

What inspires you? 

My learners and seeing them have that lightbulb moment because of something that I've helped them to grasp. I'm privileged to be in the room at the same time as someone who gets something and, if I've had some small part to play in that, because I've developed my skills through my Masters, then that will continue to inspire and motivate me to be the best teacher as that can possibly be. 

How do you think learning from industry-experienced tutors has benefitted you? 

You trust that they know what they're talking about. The examples that they give are backed up by loads of experiences that they’ve had. They’re able to use their personal experience and share how that has benefited other students. It brings learning to life. 

How would you describe the staff at the University Centre? 

Friendly, approachable, knowledgeable, supportive. 

What has been the highlight of your time studying at Newcastle College University Centre? 

Doing something for me.  I am able to use things that I've learned from the course straight away in my own classroom. It feels very satisfying. 

What’s Newcastle like as a student city, in your experience 

Newcastle is my favorite city in the UK. I am biased because I'm from the region but there's so much to do and to get from the city.  

What are your plans for after your graduation? 

I'm now involved in the revalidation of our new Level 6 programme which I would never have had the opportunity to do without this level of qualification. It will open even more doors and opportunities for me within my current role.  

What advice would you give to anyone thinking about studying a postgraduate degree at Newcastle College University Centre? 

Carve out the time that you would want to give it. It isn't easy to find the time to do the reading and the research or the writing up, but it's so worth it. You won't regret it. 

Describe your student experience in three words. 

Supported. Motivating. Worthwhile.