As a state school year eleven student, studying in one of the most deprived areas in Wales, I was already at a significant financial and educational disadvantage.
The onset of COVID-19 caused great worry regarding my GCSE results. Alongside the cancellation of examinations, the outbreak caused the temporary suspension of my voluntary positions in my community, therefore, I secured a plethora of digital voluntary roles and work experience.
As an aspiring doctor, I fear my given GCSE grades come August may not be sufficient for medicine.
However, during lockdown I have devoted my time to digitally volunteer, prepare for my A levels and secure new skills such as learning Polish and sign language to best prepare for the future.
Despite the challenges I have faced amongst many other disadvantaged students, I am still hopeful that COVID-19 will not prevent me from attaining my aspirations.
By Eleanor James