A 24-year-old Bath College student shortlisted for a national accountancy award has been praised by staff for her dedication to her course.
Tatyana Labno is about to complete a Level 4 qualification with the AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians).
She was a runner-up for AAT Student of the Year, and was shortlisted for her work ethic and her determination to finish her exams.
The 24-year-old, from Frome, started at Bath College studying for her Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications.
She completed these in just one year, instead of two years, and continued to study for a Level 4 qualification while she was pregnant.
After taking one of her exams, Mrs Labno went into labour and gave birth to her daughter Yanika at 10pm the following day.
Mrs Labno, who was back in class a few days later, said: “Being nominated for this award is a big encouragement. When people notice your performance it makes you work harder.
“When I was younger school wasn’t my favourite, but I always loved to learn new skills. Studying at Bath College has been amazing.
“When I started I wasn’t as confident and I doubted myself, but luckily my teachers had no doubts and supported me throughout my studies.”
Donna West, AAT coordinator at Bath College, said: “we have over 150 students at the college and we are proud of all of our students’ achievements.
“Tatyana was nominated because of her immense determination to complete three AAT levels in two years of studying (at the same time as having her first baby).
“This is a massive achievement. We hope that Tatyana will continue to study with us for on our ACCA course, the next level of accountancy offered by the college.”
AAT tutor Sue Wride taught Mrs Labno Level 4 accountancy.
She said: “I am so impressed by Tatyana. She has passed every exam on the first attempt, which is an achievement in itself.
“Tatyana works full-time, studies two evenings per week at the college, and also has a young baby to care for.
“She is incredibly supportive of others in the classroom and will help to explain subjects in her native language (Bulgarian) to support others.
“Amazingly she never stops smiling. Other students comment on her enthusiasm, she is a role-model for us all.”