DIANA Kauke is one of hundreds of A-Level students eagerly awaiting their results today and the date marks the end of a very difficult yet amazing three years in her young life.

Originally from Latvia, Diana came to the UK three years ago to live with a family member in the York area. Already speaking Latvian and Russian, and having learnt English at secondary school, she wanted to study a combined English literature and language A-Level course at York College, as well as A-Level maths.

Unfortunately, aged just 16, Diana found herself without a home, sofa surfing where possible and living hand to mouth. She began skipping college and in her words ‘hit rock bottom’. It was not until half-way through her first year at York College that Diana moved in with a friend - who became her guardian - and the college’s student service team became aware of her personal circumstances. Diana said: “The college was really supportive and helped me to get my life back on track. It was then that I made a conscious effort to concentrate on my studies.” She certainly did – Diana amazed her tutors when she achieved an A grade in maths and a B in English for her AS Levels.

Being a fighter, Diana returned to college for a second year to study two further A-Levels in law and government & politics, whilst continuing with her A Levels in maths and English literature/language. She found employment at Flamingo Land and, aged 18, she started living independently and the college’s student services team supported her in accessing financial assistance with travel and subsistence. Shortly afterwards Diana was awarded the college’s A-Level Student of the Month award which she says: “Made me cry … it meant so much.”

Studying A-Level law also turned out to be the best surprise for Diana. Not having considered the subject before she found her studies so interesting, she also completed an Extended Project Qualification based on medical law. Her new-found passion for the subject is now all she can think of and she is delighted to have been offered a place to study the subject at the University of York in September. Diana also has plans to study an MA in medical law, followed by a PhD in animal law.

Diana said: “I love college, it’s like my second home. I will be very sad to leave the place and I can’t quite believe I will not be returning here in September but to the University of York to study Law.”