Juggle your way to a new career

Posted on 16 August 2024 • Career planning

 

 

 

 

 

Does changing your career whilst juggling your family, study and work commitments seem impossible? OU Engineering graduate Kay shows it can be done.

Changing your career path can feel challenging, especially when you’re already juggling multiple responsibilities. Build your future with career confidence resources can help you boost your confidence to make the change and working through the Navigate Your Future activity pathway will help you organise your thoughts and figure out your next steps.

Kay was determined to change direction and pursue a career in Engineering after hearing an expert talk. Her previous experience gave her valuable and transferrable Employability skills , but she struggled with her confidence in a new field. Supported by her family and other engineering students, Kay developed strategies to manage her time and successfully completed her degree, landing a job as an Aerodynamics Engineer.

“I became an engineer while juggling a young family, the OU made it possible.”

Careers with your OU subject may help give you inspiration and ideas for your career change.

Why do you want to change career?

Deciding to take the leap and change your career is exciting, but it’s also important to consider your reasons for wanting to change. Our advice about things to consider Before making a career change can help you with this.

Increase your chances of success by gaining experience

Gaining relevant experience is crucial when changing career. It helps you explore your interests further and shows employers your commitment to their sector. CES can help you connect with inclusive employers and find internships, work placements and other opportunities through OpportunityHub. When Kay saw a placement advertised at BAE, she jumped at the chance to gain some industry experience.

“Being able to put what I’d learned into practice was amazing.”

Next steps

If you’re thinking about a career change but you’re unsure where to start, our 3-minute careers check in can help you kick start your thinking about your goals, while letting us know you’re interested in our services.

You can read Kay’s full story on the OU News website.