Former Supported Education Skills for Health & Social Care student, Jenna Marshall, shared her inspiring story with current Lincoln College students on Tuesday, 23rd September.
After many setbacks and rejections from interviews, Jenna remained determined to work for the NHS at Lincolnshire County Hospital. She secured a Band 2 position and was recently promoted to Band 3 as a Health and Support Worker.
Starting her journey at Lincoln College in 2023 with no GCSEs, Jenna had always envisioned working in a ward environment with the elderly. While learning the ins and outs of the sector at college, she volunteered five hours a week on the wards, helping to serve lunches and drinks, talking with patients during their stay, familiarising herself with the pharmacy, and building valuable connections.
Despite applying regularly for jobs, Jenna faced many rejections and came close to giving up. After four unsuccessful interviews, she succeeded in securing her first job on her fifth attempt.
Struggling with anxiety and speech difficulties, Jenna refused to let these barriers hold her back. She also shared valuable interview advice with current Supported Education students, encouraging them to carefully study job specifications and any supporting information provided by employers.
Teresa Ostick, Supported Education Lecturer at Lincoln College, said: “Jenna was absolutely brilliant when she visited to talk to the Supported Interns. She was encouraging and empathetic and really understood the position our young people are in when transitioning from education to the workplace. She was full of enthusiasm and gave great advice.”
Jenna Marshall, former Lincoln College Supported Education student, said: “I had so much support when I was at Lincoln College from job coaches and tutors who helped me find jobs and gave me interview tools and tips. Volunteering also helped me a lot, which I would recommend doing – it’s one step closer to where you want to be.
“If you know what you want to do, make it your focus. Tell yourself that you have a goal to reach, and do everything you can to get there. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself if that doesn’t happen in two years – you may need longer, and that’s okay. I’ve had ups and downs and setbacks, but I pushed through, and I got to where I wanted to go.”
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It’s your last chance to make the switch! Are you thinking about leaving sixth form? It can feel scary to make a change and leave your schoolmates behind – but don’t worry, we’ll support you every step of the way so you feel right at home.
LATE ENROLMENT EVENT – Tuesday 30th September! Drop in anytime between 10am – 12pm at Lincoln College Main Reception (Monks Road) and secure your place.
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Date Posted
26 September 2025
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Last Edited
26 September 2025
