When Luke Simmons began studying with The Open University, he had a thirst for knowledge but no specific career goal. Picking up on his passion for fiction writing and travel during his Open Degree, one of his “magnificent” OU tutors suggested he use his travel experiences as inspiration for his writing, something which Luke says helped him to find his voice.
Now he’s all set to embark on the journey of a lifetime – becoming an English teacher in China, while also pursuing his dream of becoming a published writer.
The flexibility to explore the world
Luke came to the OU while he was working full time as a civil servant, not knowing exactly what to do with his life. Before that, his most recent educational experience had been high school.
“When I first started my OU studies, I had no particular goal or ambition in terms of career progression,” he said. “At first, my motivation came from wanting to learn about new things and increase my understanding of topics which already interested me. I also wanted to expand my options in life.”
He chose an Open Degree, where students can choose to study the subject areas they’re most interested in. Luke knew that dipping into a vast range of module subjects would guarantee to keep his studies fresh and interesting, helping him to stay engaged.
He said: “The flexibility of the Open Degree helped keep things new and exciting. I studied numerous different topics – like creative writing, literature, history, art, language and business management – and the modules were fun and interesting. This allowed me to learn new things whilst also honing my fundamental interests. Plus, studying all these different topics means I now have a skill set that’s unique to me.”
“My tutors were magnificent”
Following recommendations from family members, and also thanks to his awareness of the OU’s BBC partnerships, Luke felt The Open University would be the perfect place through which he could explore, learn, and open new doors.
The flexibility offered by the OU also meant he could continue in full-time work during his studies, plus spend some time travelling – something which is very important to him.
He said: “I love to travel and the OU set up meant that I could explore the world while also keeping in touch with my tutors and fellow students, to make sure I wouldn’t fall behind. I managed to travel to Japan, China, South Korea, Hong Kong and Taiwan during my degree, which was a huge benefit.
Luke takes a study break at Mount Fuji
“Two of the modules I chose were Creative Writing and Advanced Creative Writing, both of which supplied me with invaluable experience and knowledge of the craft. My tutors were magnificent and my fellow students offered fantastic support.
“One encouraged me to use my travel experience as inspiration for my writing. This is something that naturally inspires me, and the fantastic comments, encouragement and feedback from my tutor meant I gained the confidence to find my voice.
“The OU offered me the opportunity to engage with fellow students and learn from fantastic tutors. I believe this has changed me as a person – I am now much more open and reflective than I once was.”
Luke’s top study tips
As an OU graduate, Luke’s advice to any potential students considering OU study is this:
“Just start studying! I had no idea of what the OU would be for me when I began my degree. Something new is always a good thing, even if it most likely won’t feel that way at the beginning. Stick with it; time goes by fast. I now have a degree but, more importantly, I have the pride of completing something I once believed would never happen.”
He says he found the study planner on the module website to be a great help, as well as the tutor group forums.
“The study planner helped me to organise my workload and, even though I was initially sceptical about the tutor group forums, I grew to realise and understand the benefit of engaging. On the creative writing forums, we would critique each other’s work which was especially helpful,” he added.
Carving out a new future…
As Luke progressed through his degree, he began to realise what he wanted to do with his life.
He said: “As I progressed with my studies I became focused on completing my degree so I could qualify to teach English in Asia, where I have done a lot of travelling. Once I fully realised what my goal was, I felt so motivated to complete my qualification.
“I am now changing careers. I have secured a new job teaching English in China and am all set to move in early 2022. I also plan to continue my fight to become a published writer.”
