Great-grandmother turned student awarded for her academic excellence and dedication
Date: Thursday, February 27, 2025
A great-grandmother studying for a degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice at Wrexham University has won an award for her academic performance and making an impact with her positive and dedicated approach.
Sixty-two-year-old, Helen Powell returned to study later in life to pursue a lifelong interest in Criminology.
Despite balancing a busy family life, Helen has fully embraced her studies, and has excelled in both her academic work, as well as her commitment to her peers and the wider community.
Speaking after receiving her certificate and prize, Helen said: “This award means a great deal to me. As someone who embarked on university in my sixties, I was apprehensive and wasn’t entirely sure it would be right for me – but I feel that I have truly found myself at university.
“From the fascinating course content to the incredibly supportive staff at the University, as well as my fantastic fellow students, I have been made to feel that I have a place here from the get-go. Wrexham University is an incredibly special place and I’m so grateful to have this opportunity to learn.
“Juggling family life and university is challenging at times but the support I have from my family and also my fantastic lecturers has been brilliant. I can’t thank them enough for their support.”
Dr Jo Prescott, Programme Leader and Senior Lecturer in Criminology and Criminal Justice, added: “Helen is an exemplar student, who completely embodies the spirit of Wrexham University.
“She has committed fully to her studies – shining academically through her strong grades and consistent engagement in lectures but also in the way that she supports and sets an inspiring example to her fellow students.
“Helen has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to her studies and academic growth throughout her first year. The Criminology team couldn’t be prouder of Helen, who is a truly deserving recipient of this award.”
- Criminology and Criminal Justice at Wrexham University is rated first in the UK for teaching quality and student experience in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025; as well as part of a subject area ranked first in the UK for teaching on my course in the National Student Survey 2024.
- Further details about the course – including how to apply – can be found here.
Photo caption: From left, Dr Sarah Dubberley, Principal Lecturer; Helen Powell; and Dr Jo Prescott, Programme Leader and Senior Lecturer in Criminology and Criminal Justice