Much respect for having done what you did, but I don't think volunteering programmes that require a bit more commitment necessarily have to stand in peoples' way, and being cynical doesn't help either. I've worked hard for everything, be that taking up part time jobs during my degree, scrimping hard to do anything, etc, so I feel though my experience isn't as bad as it can get, it wasn't exactly easy either. At least my parents, though wary about the financial burden of sending a kid to uni, weren't of the attitude that it wouldn't be of any use. But I knew what I wanted to do and have been willing to do whatever to better my chances, even if it's not ideal. I definitely wouldn't say no if At-Bristol wanted to pay me for my work, but as I understand it, that wouldn't be feasible for them and I don't expect it.

I'm going to stand out of this debate for now as I feel I've put across my perspective as best I can, but finish (for now) by saying I've had a lot of off list messages from people who support me, are in or have been in my position, and are too intimidated to reply. I genuinely want to frankly debate these issues, if that helps guide in some way, people who in the future might find them self in such a position, so that a balance can be reached between being able to offer opportunities and making sure EVERYONE can take them,  then we're talking of organising an event, and making sure ALL point of views are represented so maybe we can figure out a way to make a real difference.

There's nothing I can do here about the sorts of companies who are standing in the way of social mobility (the documentary I saw on BBC about this, and also David Cameron's lack of care about why it might be bad to give a neighbour an internship made me SICK!) but yes, I am idealistic and naive and inexperienced. But I will try to do what I can on the chance that I can make a small difference. I hope to keep the idealistic bit at least for as long as possible. And of this, I am unashamed.

Many thanks for reading.

Michaela.