When Kai Sang Lee arrived in the UK from Hong Kong to study psychology at Sheffield University, he wasn't entirely sure where his degree would take him. What he did know was that he wanted to work with people, making a real difference in their lives.
Five months into his role as a Learning Support Worker in Chesterfield, Kai Sang has found exactly what he was looking for.
A Journey Shaped by Service
Kai Sang's path to MacIntyre reflects his longstanding commitment to helping others. From his time in the Cadet Corps in Hong Kong to volunteering with the PDSA alongside his university studies, he's always been drawn to roles where he can improve lives.
When choosing his degree, he faced a decision between psychology and education. He explains:
I chose psychology because I believed it would give me a broader field of possibility,
I'm interested in working with people of all ages, and the degree has given me insight and understanding that allows me to provide better support.
That breadth of knowledge proved valuable when he spotted MacIntyre's advert for a Learning Support Worker. He recalls:
I immediately thought this would use my insights and interest in people,
Psychology in Practice
What makes the role particularly rewarding for Kai Sang is seeing theory come to life. His academic understanding of psychology directly informs how he supports people to learn new skills and develop greater independence. He's especially impressed by how MacIntyre's Everyone Everywhere approach translates into everyday activities such as supporting people who volunteer at the local food bank. He says:
It's about real participation in community life
Finding home in a new culture
Like many people considering a new role, Kai Sang initially had concerns, particularly about whether cultural differences might make settling in difficult. His experience couldn't have been more different. He says now:
Nothing could be further from the truth, people from all kinds of backgrounds work at MacIntyre, and are supported by MacIntyre. I'd encourage anyone to give working here a try.
Looking Ahead
When he's not at work, you'll likely find Kai Sang exploring the hiking trails of the nearby Peak District, an enthusiasm he's eager to share with the people he supports.
After just five months, Kai Sang has found a role that aligns with his skills and values. His psychology degree isn't gathering dust on a shelf, it’s supporting his work all the time.
