In observance of Mental Health Awareness Week 2023, we reached out to our alumni community to share their experiences. One such alumna is Jenna Pethurst, who studied BA English Literature and Psychology at CCCU from 2018-2021.

Tell us about your current role

I am currently working in the NHS as a Mental Health Wellbeing Practitioner. This involves delivering CBT-based, low intensity interventions for clients with severe mental illness. 

What made you want to pursue a career in this field?

I didn’t always know what I wanted to do, but mental health was always something that stood out to me due to my own experiences. There are so many career opportunities as well as a focus on personal/professional growth.

Why is mental health so important?

Mental health is often put second to other aspects of life, i.e. studying, working, physical health, etc. This can lead to many difficulties that, overtime, affect those other things anyway. Mental health awareness is important to me as it spreads knowledge about wellbeing and ways to truly put ourselves first.

What is your favourite thing about what you do?

No two days are the same! Mental health is a very interesting field to work in and you will always have new challenges that you could not predict.

If anyone reading is thinking of working in mental health, what one piece of advice would you give them?

Self-care! Practice good mental health on yourself first – the role can be stressful at times so it is important to know how to manage that in a constructive way.

How did you come to study at CCCU when you did?

I never thought I would go to university after leaving Sixth Form, but I managed to get in through clearing. Five years on from that point I have completed my degree at CCCU, completed a PGCert at UCL and I am part way through my MSc at Nottingham.

What is your fondest memory of your time at CCCU?

My fondest memory at CCCU was English seminars. Getting to discuss literature with like-minded peers was something that I will never forget.

How did your time at university impact on your life and career post-education?

My time at university helped me to be confident and kind to myself. I believe that this is one of the reasons I have been so lucky with my further studies and career so far.

What does being a CCCU Alumnus mean to you?

I am proud of be part of the CCCU alumni community – I had an amazing experience and would love to return to study later in life.