“I decided to study with the OU because I wanted a second career”
Read Alan’s story about starting a social work degree after life in the army
I decided to study with the OU because I wanted a second career. I'd been in the Army since I was 16, but in my mid 30s I decided I would leave when I was 40 and knew that if I wanted to do something else, I'd need qualifications.
While in the Army I had done some voluntary work with the Royal British Legion as a caseworker and found that very satisfying, so I decided to work towards a degree in health and social care. Several friends had completed OU degrees so I signed up and found it suited me very well - especially because of my different operational deployments. The flexibility of the learning made it ideal - although it was a little difficult to find the time to study in Iraq during Saddam's last days in power.
When I left the Forces I got a job as a social services assistant with Portsmouth City Council. I hadn't quite finished my degree but the fact I was studying for it certainly helped me to get the post. I now work in the Family Intervention and Prevention Team and really enjoy it.
I'm about to begin my second Open University degree, in Social Work - this time sponsored by my employer. My previous degree proved I could study at this level and helped me get through the tight selection process for a place on the course.
I think people should be aware that an OU degree does take hard work and dedication. But the teaching materials are excellent and the OU is such a supportive environment - not just the tutors but fellow students. Everybody helps and encourages each other.
My advice to anyone thinking of studying with the OU is definitely to do it - although I would say it makes a huge difference to study a subject you enjoy, so take time to pick the right course, and choose wisely. And remember that everyone struggles sometimes, so always ask for support and don't give up. Although it's a brilliant experience and you'll thoroughly enjoy it, you will sometimes find it hard - but coming through that makes your final result even more of an achievement.