‘I’m really proud of what I’ve achieved, even against the odds’

Posted on 2 January 2025 • Computing, Student stories

George, 28, from Brighton, has just graduated with a BSc (Honours) Computing & IT from The Open University (OU). Since completing his degree, his career has gone from strength-to-strength thanks to his studies, with promotions and even a nomination for Business Analyst of the Year 2024.

However, George’s study journey hasn’t been without its challenges. In 2020, mid-way through his degree, he was paralysed from the waist down from Cauda Equina Syndrome. George was able to pause his studies and begin again when ready, giving him the flexibility he’s needed when faced with the unexpected.

“I did in my opinion, good enough at school, but I just wasn’t very engaged,” said George.

“It wasn’t until I started a B-Tech alongside my A Levels that I began to enjoy learning. I loved being able to study in my own time and apply myself to a subject that really interested me.

“I felt disenfranchised with school and would have left at ten if I could, but the B-Tech bought a spark back and made me realise that I actually just needed a change from the type of learning, which is where my journey with the OU began.”

Planning ahead

George knew he wanted to gain skills that would help his career progression.

“I wanted to purse a job in an industry with security and longevity. I applied for a few vacancies and landed a role in IT support at AXA, but again I had my future in mind.

“Everyone I knew that was currently studying at a brick university seemed unsure about their career path and what lay ahead of them after graduating. Some didn’t even know whether they’d be able to secure work.

“This is when I found the OU. In just six years, I’d be able to gain a degree and on-the-job experience that would pay for my qualification.

“In my mind, this would give me an edge that other twenty-somethings who had followed the traditional route wouldn’t have.”

Life-changing event

George was progressing well with his studies when he was struck with a debilitating illness. The OU’s student support team was by his side every step of the journey and helped him navigate the tricky times.

“I was midway through my dissertation module when one morning, I suddenly found that I couldn’t move from the waist down.

“I was diagnosed with Cauda Equina Syndrome, which is a rare but serious condition that happens when the nerves at the bottom of your spine are compressed or damaged.

“My doctor told me that I needed to act like I’d had major spinal surgery and basically not move for the next six to 12 weeks to allow my body to recover.

“I attempted to carry on with my module, but the recovery was too difficult and took all my energy. I spoke to the student support team, who were incredibly helpful and supportive. They talked me through the process and made me feel confident that pausing my studies wouldn’t affect my goal of achieving my degree.

“After a year, when I was feeling well enough to start studying again, I was given the guidance I needed to pick up where I had left off.”

Advice for others

George has now completed his degree and used his qualifications to land a new role and even pick up an award nomination.

“Shortly after I completed my degree, I secured a more senior role and have since been promoted after just a year. I was also recently shortlisted for Business Analyst of the Year. My career has been propelled forward with my new qualification.

“I’m proud of what I’ve achieved, even against the odds with my Cauda Equina Syndrome.

“If you’re like me and school wasn’t the right fit, then perhaps the flexibility of the OU could be the perfect remedy. Whether you want to work at a full-time capacity or pace your studies so that you can work at the same time, the OU gives you plenty of options.

“The opportunities are there for you to grab. I’ve enjoyed my studies that much, that I’m even considering an MBA with the OU!”

Boost your career prospects with an OU qualification. Register before 9 January 2025 for courses starting in February.