Dr Rebecca Sharpe, 41, is now a lecturer in the geography, environment and planning department at Sheffield Hallam University, despite having dropped out of her first degree. She is also a recognised expert on the water industry, consulted by local authorities.
Dr Sharpe was the first in her family to attend university but left after two months, feeling lonely, stressed, and like an academic failure. She later realised her initial subject choice and university city were not suitable for her personality and passions.
After working in a shopping centre, Dr Sharpe pursued geography, a subject she had always loved, at Loughborough University. She then completed a Masters and PhD at the University of Sheffield before beginning her career in academia.
The National Union of Students states that mid-November and the period after Christmas are peak times for students to drop out of university. Universities offer support, but sometimes advise that leaving is the best option.