Despite her cancer, Rebecca Oldham has refused to let life’s toughest challenges stand in the way of her ambitions has been named Higher Education Student of the Year after graduating with a BA (Hons) Counselling and Psychotherapy degree from East Lancashire University Centre (ELUC).
Rebecca (47), from Accrington, was recognised at East Lancashire Learning Group’s annual Student Awards and is expecting a 2:1 in her degree, marking the latest milestone in an educational journey defined by extraordinary determination and resilience.
Her path to Higher Education Student of the Year began several years ago when, following her first cancer diagnosis, she enrolled on a Level 2 Counselling course. What started as one course soon became a passion, with Rebecca progressing to a diploma, foundation degree and ultimately a full honours degree, studying at ELUC’s Accrington and Rossendale College campus.
The road to graduation was far from straightforward. During her studies, Rebecca lost her father and, earlier this year, received a second cancer diagnosis. Although she was offered the opportunity to defer her studies, she chose to continue, determined to complete the degree she had worked so hard to achieve.
Reflecting on her experience, Rebecca said:
“In some ways it actually kind of saved my life. I know that sounds dramatic, but I’d lost myself.”
She credits the unwavering support of her lecturers and the wider ELUC team for helping her continue through some of the most difficult periods of her life.
“The support ELUC and my lecturers gave me was incredible: one-to-one time, emails, check-ins, recognising extenuating circumstances so I could still deliver work around the fatigue, never being penalised.
“They’ve been brilliant. Absolutely amazing.
“The lecturers genuinely care about you as a person, not just a student. They wanted me to succeed and supported me every step of the way.”
Lisa O’Loughlin, Principal and Chief Executive of East Lancashire Learning Group, said:
“Rebecca’s determination and resilience have been truly inspirational. Her story is a powerful reminder that higher education can transform lives, and we are incredibly proud to recognise her as our Higher Education Student of the Year. She thoroughly deserves this award.”
Receiving the award was an emotional moment for Rebecca.
“My dad would be proud. I hope my children, Emily, 11, and Jack, 9, are proud too.”
Looking ahead, Rebecca plans to begin chemotherapy before taking on counselling clients as soon as she feels able, while continuing to spend precious time with her family.
Despite everything she has faced, she has no intention of giving up.
“I don’t plan on going anywhere any time soon and I’ll be returning to my studies as soon as I can! My friends call me stubborn. I wonder why?”
