The Open University

In this week’s episode of The Open University’s podcast series, Life… On Our Terms, presenter and broadcaster, Gemma Cairney speaks to Jezanne, a Health Science student at the OU, who is balancing her degree with a thriving career in Medical Governance.

Jezanne, OU student

Jezanne, aged 19 from Reading, Berkshire is currently studying towards a Bachelor’s in Healthcare and Health Science.

“I work for a life science company in a department called Medical Governance and in order to progress it was obvious to me that I needed a credible qualification in the science sector. The Healthcare and Health Science qualification at the OU was the perfect match for me to get this.”

With the flexibility to allow her to continue working full-time, Jezanne is able to achieve a valuable qualification, whilst progressing her career.

“My tutor is always in contact via email or trying to set up individual tutorials to run through any questions I might have on an upcoming TMA, tutor marked assignment. Things like that are really good, even though it is distance learning it feels like your tutor is there constantly.”

As the first member of her family to go to university, Jezanne tells Gemma that her family and friends are proud of her endeavours and are a great support network.

“My friends and family are really proud. I’m the first to go to university out of my siblings. Everyone has been really supportive. They know what I want to do and they know this is the way to achieve it.”

Jezanne goes on to speak about her hopes to make a mark on the industry and encourages other women to consider a career in STEM.

“I want to make a difference. My industry is highly male dominated and I want to prove as a female you can do anything you put your mind to.

“A positive change I would like to make in the world is to help disadvantaged people, especially women see that they can do anything they put their mind to. I strongly believe that everyone [can achieve]if they have the willpower and belief that they will flourish, but some people just need the support to see that.”

As well as an OU student, Gemma is also joined by a celebrated guest. Episode six features NHS Doctor and BAFTA Award-Winning TV Presenter, Dr Ranj Singh. Dr Ranj has worked across a range of roles related to health, medicine and the broadcast industry and has found lifelong learning to be one of the guiding principles in helping him achieve his goals. Gemma and Dr. Ranj discuss the importance of making scientific careers accessible to all and how flexibility and balance could be the answer to ensuring we all pursue what we love doing.