Return to study for legal eagle Rauf

After eight years of unemployment Abdul Rauf sought a change of direction, and enrolled for an access to Higher Education course at Longlands College, Middlesbrough. This gave Abdul, who likes to be known as Rauf, the confidence to enrol for a Law degree at the University of Teesside, and he is about to start the final year of his LLB (Hons) course. Rauf's current academic success is a far cry when he left Bertram Ramsey (now Brackenhoe) school in Middlesbrough 20 years ago, with no qualifications.

Rauf, 36, of Park Lane, Middlesbrough, said: "I mucked about at school and didn't think about education. I only wanted to find work."

Following school Rauf embarked on a series of jobs, including labouring, taxi driving in Middlesbrough and caring for his invalid mother. A lengthy period of unemployment forced Rauf to consider returning to education.

He said: "I chose Law because it widens my career choices. The subject is enjoyable and has given me a lot of confidence. When I read articles I can understand the legal implications, such as rulings by the Law Lords. There's a good atmosphere on the course, you get to mix with people of all ages and the Lecturers are fantastic."

Rauf is also a volunteer at the Azaad Youth Centre in Marton Road, Middlesbrough, which caters for young people aged 11-18 from ethnic minority backgrounds. The study bug has clearly bitten Rauf, as he is planning for a second degree. Rauf added: "I've developed an interest in Computing and am thinking about a Masters degree in the subject once I finish the law. Anybody over 21 who is thinking about going to University should try it, you get support and the good things far outweigh the minuses."

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