When Kieran Griffin dropped out of college at 16, he never imagined he would carve out an international career supporting communities around the world. Or that he could achieve it all while also gaining a degree with The Open University.
After completing his International Studies degree while globe-trotting, Kieran, now 28, shares his story so far:
“I’ve always been ambitious, but I knew from an early age that a traditional route through education just wasn’t for me. I left school at 16, dropped out of college and quit a career in catering before finding a business apprenticeship.
Several NVQs later, I was lucky enough to get a job in admin for an international development company. I now had the opportunity to climb the career ladder, and with a company whose great humanitarian work truly inspired me.”
Forging a new path
“I was gaining first-hand experience of the positive impact of international development and I wanted to learn more about it. I also noticed that most of my colleagues had a degree. I thought, well, if everyone else has one, why not me?
The last thing I wanted was to hinder my progression within the company. But at the same time, I didn’t want to quit my job in order to get a degree.
Being able to work and study at the same time was something I never thought possible. Then I found the OU.
The OU’s International Studies degree was a perfect match, as my company’s work is directly relevant. I was fortunate enough to be supported by excellent colleagues all over the world, who’ve been a fantastic resource and sounding board over the years. This helped me translate theoretical ideas and approaches I was learning at the time into real development practice.”
Writing essays all over the world
“I count myself lucky to have been able to visit international development programmes all over the world while studying. I travelled to ten different countries on over 25 separate trips.
I wrote OU essays all over the world, including in Lebanon, Palestine, Jordan, Kenya, Nepal, America, and Belgium. One of my favourite OU study moments would have to be writing an essay while overlooking the Himalayas, with a beer in hand.
The main challenge for me was finding the time. I had to juggle the constant, intense pressure of work along with essay deadlines. I certainly won’t miss the late nights and early mornings, but I will miss the learning experience and that overwhelming feeling of happiness you get when you receive a high mark on essays and exams. I always found a way somehow to meet my work deadlines and my study deadlines.”
The OU’s just a phone call away
“Many times, after I submitted an essay I’d worry that it was awful or that I’d missed key parts. But my tutors were always just a phone call away and it was always to my surprise that the feedback was more positive than not. Their detailed and constructive feedback really helped me improve for next time.
My advice to those considering OU study would be, don’t overthink it. You’ll be surprised at what you can achieve. I wasn’t great with exams but managed to make up marks with stronger essays. All you can expect from yourself is to do your best. If you know you’re doing that then you’ll be fine.
I’m responsible for lots of writing as part of my job and I always felt my writing was not as strong as it could be. The OU has given me the tools I need to improve and it’s really made me believe in myself so much more. I now think I have the ability to do anything, so long as I put my mind to it!”
Building an international career
“Six years of studying alongside building a career is no easy task. In fact, it’s one of the most difficult things I’ve ever done. But it’s hands down the best thing I’ve ever done.
The opportunity that the OU provides to students like me, who didn’t want to go down the conventional route to studying, is incredible.
The key positive for me is being able to study without having to stop progressing my career. I would highly recommend exploring the OU to anyone in a similar situation.
I’m extremely proud of what I managed to achieve. I honestly thought that after leaving school at 16 the day would never come when I could proudly say I’m a university graduate with an Honours degree. Studying while working full-time has had its challenges but the satisfaction after completion is 100% worth it!”
Inspired by Kieran’s journey? Start your own
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