‘An OU degree is proof you can achieve if you’re brave enough to invest the time and care into yourself’

Posted on 20 November 2024 • Psychology, Student stories

Alex, 28, from Lincolnshire, has just graduated with a BSc (Honours) in Psychology with Counselling from The Open University (OU). Having struggled at school, she never thought she would continue studying. But now, with her degree, Alex has an exciting future ahead with plans of progressing in the care industry and starting her own business.

“I struggled with reading and writing at school and needed extra support until around Year 10 when I experienced a traumatic event and the start of a long-term health problem, which made the school environment an impossible place to be,” said Alex.

“My physical and mental health was severely impacted. I stopped eating, and I would only speak to a handful of people.

“I was fortunate that my grandparents took me under their wing and looked after me, as my parents were working full-time. It was a really difficult period. I became virtually bedridden and had teachers visit me at home so that I could get my maths, science and English GSCEs.”

Rocky road into education

After finishing school, Alex progressed to college, but she was still faced with challenges that made learning difficult.

“I dabbled in college and got mixed up with the wrong crowd. There was the odd teacher that I connected with, but overall, it didn’t feel right for me.

“During this time, my mum was diagnosed with breast cancer and became unwell, and then my grandad passed away a few months later. He was the male figure in my life, who I looked up to for support and advice.

“I felt like the rug had been pulled from beneath me and that my world was falling apart before it had even begun.”

Turning point with the OU

Alex began working at a local hotel. Little did she realise that she was about to meet the love of her life and begin a new path, where she would find her passion and regain her spark.

“I started working part-time as bar staff at a hotel in my hometown. I was quickly promoted and offered an entry-level apprenticeship in hospitality, which introduced me to the concept of being able to earn whilst I learn.

“Whilst at the hotel, I also met my now husband. I’d never met anyone like him; he came across as educated and incredibly smart, as well as eccentric and unique – he had my heart from the moment I laid eyes on him.

“The more he told me about his qualifications, the more it made me think that I wanted a slice of that. I started to investigate the OU, as I’d heard from a friend how well it can fit around everyday life.

“I was drawn to courses that would help me better understand people. Psychology with counselling felt like the perfect match for my skills and interests.

“I found the course material was gradually increased in workload and difficulty. It felt like a natural progression and wasn’t overwhelming. Also, being part-time meant that I could carry on working and fit my studies around my health conditions.

“I suffer from Crohn’s disease and hypermobility spectrum disorder. Studying with the OU meant that even when I’ve been out of work and in a hospital bed, I’ve been able to carry on with my course. It’s been a great distraction.”

Work and future business plans

As a graduate, Alex is looking forward to what she can accomplish with her degree.

“It’s taken me six years to achieve a 2:1. I still can’t believe it; I’m in shock that I’m a graduate.

“This next year, I’m going to enjoy the break from studying to plan my next steps. I want to carry on building my experience at the care home where I work and have ambitions of starting my own business.

“I’d love to begin a therapeutic service that is accessible to all in terms of cost and availability. I want it to be more than just 9-5. I’ve had first-hand experience of the care system both personally and through my family, and although I appreciate the support that I’ve received, I can see where things can be improved.

“There’s a massive need for better mental health care for the elderly. They’re often overlooked as a generation, especially those who might have suffered during the war. Due to their age, they’ve also witnessed a wider range of life events, such as the death of family and friends.

“There is such a stigma towards therapy in their generation. I believe it could help them to process their experiences.

“A cup of tea and a hot bath aren’t always the only solution.”

Achieve your goals with the OU

The OU has given Alex the freedom she needed to manage her caring responsibilities whilst pursuing her own passions.

“The OU has changed me as a person by making me more self-disciplined and motivated.

“Even when I’m having a bad day with my mental health, I know that I can motivate myself to study, even if it’s just for 15 minutes. By being able to tackle my studies in bite-sized chunks has helped me to overcome a lot and achieve what I’ve wanted.

“The flexibility of the OU has also allowed me to continue looking after my family. All my tutors have been supportive when I’ve had a hard time. Being able to stay at home and attend online lectures, where I can sit in my room with my door open and hear if my grandma needs anything, has been a lifesaver.

“If I’d been at a traditional university, then I would have had to move away from home. My grandma might have gone into care sooner and I would have needed additional support managing my health.

“My advice for anyone considering the OU is that you’ve got nothing to lose, you’ve only got to gain. It’s always worth a try; go at your own speed, and you’ll be surprised at how far you can go. An OU degree is proof you can achieve if you’re brave enough to invest the time and care into yourself.”

Like Alex, you have the power to change your path. Register before 9 January 2025 for courses starting in February.