Jordan unveiled as Student of the Year

A TEENAGER who overcame depression and her low self-esteem to pursue her ambition to help others has been chosen as this year's Lowestoft College Student of the Year.

Jordan Shimmon, 18, from Beccles, received the award from Journal editor Max Bennett at a ceremony on Wednesday evening at the Hotel Victoria, on Kirkley Cliff, Lowestoft.

Jordan was nominated for the award by her tutors after turning her life around.

After suffering from depression and a lack of confidence, she enrolled on the college's Princes Trust Programme and the joined its Entry to Employment Group to learn more.

She exceeded expectations, proving to be an excellent and enthusiastic learner who has been willing to volunteer and assist fellow students. She now hopes to join a full-time course in September and wants to go on to work in social care or healthcare in a role where she can help others.

Jordan said she was surprised but very proud to receive her award.

'I was so shocked. I heard them saying all those nice things about the winning student and though 'oh well that can't be then' and then they said my name! I couldn't believe it,' she said.

'Before I started my course I'd had a breakdown and was virtually housebound. It's made such a difference to me. Hopefully others will see this and think that if I can do it, they can too.'

The ninth annual Celebration of Achievement Awards, sponsored by The Journal, also honoured 19 other students who were all chosen as finalists after being nominated by their tutors.

They received certificates and prizes at the ceremony, attended by friends, family, tutors and local VIPs.

This year's guest speaker was college principal Gwen Parsons who retires next month. She was thanked for her hard work and inspirational leadership during her eight years at the college.

For a full report and pictures from the ceremony, be sure to buy next week's Journal.