Danielle Nichol

Gain qualifications but be open to career choices

Ten years after studying Applied Science Level 3 Extended Diploma at Leicester College, Danielle Nichol has built a successful career in recruitment, proving that career paths can change in unexpected ways.

When Danielle first joined Leicester College, she had a clear plan for the future: to study at university and become a mental health nurse. During her studies, she gained experience working in mental health settings and quickly realised that, although she was passionate about helping people, nursing was not the right career for her.

"It was difficult to admit that it wasn't for me because working in mental health had always been my passion," Danielle explained.

After leaving college, Danielle explored a range of roles, including positions in hospitality, warehousing and the Home Office, before unexpectedly finding her way into recruitment. Three and a half years later, she is now a Recruitment Manager at Morgan Hunt - a multi-award-winning recruitment agency with over 150 consultants across London, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Manchester and Glasgow - and has discovered a career that she genuinely loves, whilst still being able to help people.

Today, Danielle specialises in recruitment within the further education and university sectors, and hopes to continue progressing within the industry, with her long-term ambition being to become a director.

Her company offers what Danielle describes as ‘360 recruitment’, supporting colleges and educational institutions with both temporary and permanent recruitment. The role involves preparing students for employment through mock interviews, CV workshops and DBS checks, as well as sponsoring student awards and delivering projects such as a T Level Dragons' Den-style initiative with Nottingham College.

Giving back to Leicester College

Recently, Danielle returned to Leicester College to deliver an employability talk, sharing her experiences with current students and encouraging them to remain open-minded about their future careers.

"Things can change, and that's okay," she said. "Sometimes you leave school thinking you'll stay in the same career forever, but it's important to be prepared for opportunities and different paths."

Before joining Leicester College, Danielle spent a year studying A levels, giving her a unique perspective on the differences between sixth form and college education.

"College life was much more relaxed and suited me better," she said. "A levels work well for certain types of students, but vocational courses give many people the opportunity to learn in a way that suits them."

Danielle believes that her own experiences have helped her connect with the students she works with today, particularly those who may be commuting or adjusting to a new environment.

"When I joined Leicester College, it was a completely new area and I didn't know anyone. It helped me become independent and really made me grow up."

Danielle’s experience at Leicester College

Danielle describes her time at Leicester College as "the best years of my education". Achieving a Triple Distinction star grade and being recognised as a top-performing student, she credits the College with helping to shape the way she works and thinks today.

"I found my independence at Leicester College and the skills I gained there still help me in my career."

Recommending Leicester College to others

Danielle regularly recommends college to her younger relatives and believes perceptions around vocational education have changed significantly over the years.

"People have much more flexibility now when it comes to choosing to go to college, and there's far less stigma attached to vocational routes. I've advised all of my cousins to consider college because it's such a valuable option."