Chris Fergusson

Undergrad student testimonial

In September 2008 like many others during these hard economic times I lost my job. Up until this I had always considered myself as a Financial Services Professional. However, I realised very quickly that being a ‘one trick pony’, especially with a trick that no one really cared for, required me to strengthen my C.V. so that I could be presented as an adaptable and active individual, in spite of being unemployed.

Due to my circumstances, I decided to attempt a course at The Open University (OU). After reading the prospectus I realised that not only could I do this part-time which allowed me to still look for work, I also realised that could get help towards covering the cost of the course. Due to its versatile nature I decided on studying for my Certificate in Business Studies. This was a course I really enjoyed, I found my tutor very helpful and the understanding staff at the OU were only too happy to help with issues I had regarding funding.

I particularly enjoyed the Day Schools and the Tutor Group Forum as it allowed me to start working with others and testing what I had learnt. These regular features of the course help by making you realise that you are not studying on your own. Having obtained my Certificate in Business Studies, I moved on to the second level courses and have just finished my first course. I can honestly say I still haven’t lost the bug to learn more with the OU despite having now been back at work since November 2009.

I really feel my situation could have been a whole lot worse if it hadn’t been for the ‘real’ support I received from the OU. It wasn’t just the staff who have all been great, but also the other students who made me feel valued. With such an array of people studying from different backgrounds, each with their own reasons for being there, the whole learning experience has become quite addictive. I fully intend to get my BA in Business Studies, and then who knows.