University isn't just about a degree. Read how Elina grasped many opportunities during her time at CCCU.
Not only was Elina a hardworking student, but she worked for the Students' Union as the Women's Officer and International Officer for the University.
She has a special interest in children’s rights and has used her criminal and social justice knowledge to support refugees in Lebanon.
Read how Elina used her skills and knowledge to gainan invaluable experience at CCCU.
Gaining an enriching education
"My experience at CCCU was beautiful and enriching. I loved both my Law degree and MA in Crime, Justice, and Society.
"I was given the chance to participate in many activities which enhanced my skills. At CCCU I found myself volunteering, representing students through the Students' Union as Women's Officer and International Officer, working at various faculties and receiving two very important degrees.
"Although as an international student I experienced various social differences in the beginning, the studying was exciting and familiar to me as I had come from an English- based education. I admired everything about the education at CCCU.
"I also travelled around Europe with the Law Group, visiting European institutions and having first-hand experience of how European Law is practised."
I feel extremely proud of what I have achieved at Canterbury Christ Church University - I came with no clear vision of what I could achieve, but I left with numerous academic and professional achievements.
"Upon my graduation the International Office asked me to work as a member of staff. They had seen my passion and involvement with the University, and I landed my first full time job within the premises of the University."
Gaining experience and skills
"After my studies I travelled to Lebanon and set up a volunteering programme to teach English to Syrian and Palestinian refugees living in Shatila Refugee camp. Here, I utilised my criminological and social justice knowledge to underprivileged groups.
"I then travelled to Australia and worked at a social research centre, which also helped me improve other transferable skills. This gave me great opportunities to see how other people work.
"My most recent role was at a nursery school, which uses modern teaching methods involving positive and critical thinking from a young age, encouraging children to discover their interests through free play.
"Undertaking this various roles gave me a lot of experience, and they enabled me to use the knowledge that I learned from University. Without gaining both degrees at CCCU, I wouldn't have been able to grasp these wonderful opportunities."
Goals for the future
"My goals for the future are to get involved in organisations that encourage young people to reach out to more activities and experiences than the traditional paths, as this will guide them into the everchanging and new age world that is upon us."
One of the best things about studying at CCCU was the opportunity I was given to travel for competitions and conferences, such as the Mediation and Negotiation Competition in Scotland and the Student Conference in London.