School of Sociology and Social Policy

Anna Janota

MA Disability Studies by Distance Learning | 2009 - 2011

About me
My undergraduate degree was in Modern Languages and, as a result, I have lived in different countries and carried out a variety of work that enabled me to use the different languages that I spoke.  

However, for the last ten years I have principally worked in the public and voluntary sector, in positions based around social inclusion and support for people in vulnerable situations or with specific needs.

I have also spent the last five years working in Bolivia in projects that were aimed to strengthen local government and disability organisations.  I am now back in the UK and am working as a volunteer co-ordinator for Devon Rape Crisis Service.

My motivation to study
I chose to study at Leeds because of the excellent reputation that the Centre for Disability Studies at the University of Leeds has and a personal recommendation from a friend who had studied the Disability Studies MA in its very first year!

My experience with Leeds
I was a distance learning student who never actually went to the University during the course duration, especially as I was based on another continent.  I found that my tutors were incredibly understanding and sensitive to my unique situation, especially in relation to the residential weekends that I was supposed to participate in.

Nothing was ever too much.  I really felt that my tutors went above and beyond the call of duty, I thought they were absolutely excellent, particularly Colin Barnes and Laura Hemingway. I’d like to say a big “thank you” once again to all my tutors and the Centre for Disability Studies for making it possible for me to achieve something that is really important to me.

The course
I found the course was excellent, well organised, with flexible tutors and a lot of support from afar.  Although I felt isolated, being so far away, there were lots of tools in place to help include me more such as a space to discuss topics, concerns and other issues with other students.  The virtual library and disability archive were totally invaluable for my learning.

Since graduating
My intention was to find a more responsible position in England again that enabled me to further develop my skills in the area of disability.  

However, after eight interviews for jobs that really suited my skills, I was finally offered a position in another area of work, as a volunteer co-ordinator for a women-only organisation that supports survivors of rape and sexual assault.  

I really love my position and hope that I can use my skills and experience related to disability in ensuring that the service available is inclusive both of those wishing to access it and those wishing to provide the support.

• View all profiles