Janine Moore

Janine Moore's love of history has taken her from a former career as a police officer to her current life as a second year undergraduate reading History at Mansfield College, Oxford.

'I joined the Police service in 1998, starting with the British Transport Police and transferred to Thames Valley Police in 2002. Most of policing at constable level is about community engagement, reassurance, crime prevention and this means a lot of patrolling and a lot of talking to people. I found my job rewarding but felt that I had not been able to achieve my full potential within it. In all fairness to the service I wasn't interested in promotion, and I didn't really know what else I was capable of doing. I suffered a serious injury on duty in 2005; it was awful, but it also gave me the opportunity to reflect on my life and what I wanted to do.

'I had always loved history. I started taking some history courses at Birkbeck College, and after a few modules in ancient history and early modern history I realised that I was ready to do a structured course. I think Birkbeck was good for me at the time, but it lacked the personal touch I really needed. This was an important consideration for me because I had lost a lot of confidence after my injury and I was looking for extra support, continuity and easy access to resources. I knew that the Department offered one-to-one tutorials, that the class size would be relatively small, and that there would be a weeks' full time study after the first year which all seemed ideal.

'When I came to the Department for Continuing Education I met Dr Buchanan for an interview and I was immediately impressed with how friendly and approachable he was. I was so happy when I was offered a place on the course! To start with I was worried about everything from essays, class discussions and exams, but it really helped being part of a group and we all helped each other through. Also the Department's library is fantastic - not only is it well-stocked but it has the most friendly and helpful staff. I'm certain that I will remain a member for many years to come.

'After my first year exams I was a little disappointed with my mark but the tutors and lecturers were encouraging and supportive. My second year exam marks were much better, which only proves that the lecturers have an amazing ability to literally drag the potential out of you.

'After I completed my Undergraduate Certificate I was desperate to pursue an academic path, and the programme directors fully supported my application to Mansfield College at Oxford University. It was a lot of hard work with the UCAS form, HAT test and interview process, and I know I couldn't have done it alone. I'm so grateful to the Department. I still can't believe I have been offered a place, I'm so excited about it.'

Learn more:

• Certificate in History