Hello, I’m Dr Sophia Deboick, founder of The Degree Doctor.
I established The Degree Doctor in 2012 to provide dedicated specialist study skills and mentoring support for higher education students in receipt of Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA). Based in south Essex, I support undergraduate and postgraduate students studying at universities across the UK, helping them develop the practical strategies, confidence and independence they need to succeed in higher education.
I completed a PhD at the School of History, University of Liverpool, in 2011, and before establishing The Degree Doctor I worked in study skills support at one of the country’s largest higher education providers within the further education sector. Alongside my work as a study skills tutor and mentor, I am also a freelance writer. My writing has appeared in a wide range of national publications, and I regularly research and write on subjects spanning history, culture and current affairs. This work enables me to bring a broad perspective, strong research skills and a deep understanding of written communication to my work with students.
My 15 years of experience supporting students has given me a thorough understanding of the academic environment and the different challenges students can encounter across the full range of disciplines and levels of study. I work exclusively with higher education students and believe that effective mentoring and study skills support is highly collaborative. Every student arrives with different strengths, experiences and ways of thinking, so sessions are tailored to your individual needs and academic goals. My approach is friendly, approachable and grounded in the belief that students work best when they feel understood, respected and empowered to develop their own strategies for success.
I hold a Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Studies in Education (PGCPSE (Open)), am AMBDA FE/HE (Associate Member of the British Dyslexia Association, Further Education/Higher Education) accredited, and have undertaken specialist training in autism with the National Association of Disability Practitioners (NADP) and the National Autistic Society (NAS). I am a registered DSA Non-Medical Help (NMH) provider of Specialist One-to-One Study Skills and Strategy Support (SpLD, ASC and ADHD) and Specialist Mentor Support (ASC and ADHD), and hold Quality Assured Membership of the Professional Association of Specific Learning Difference Specialists in Higher Education (PASSHE).
Whether you’re writing your first undergraduate essay, returning to study after time away, or navigating the unique challenges of postgraduate research at Master’s or doctoral level, I aim to provide practical, supportive guidance that helps you develop strategies that work for you. I look forward to helping you make the most of your time at university and achieve your academic goals!