After completing her GCSEs, Chloe had a big decision to make – go on to achieve A Levels as expected or follow her heart by choosing another path.
Craving a more enriching learning experience away from the “incessant emphasis” on exam practice she’d experienced at school, Chloe chose to fast-track her university journey and career by starting an Arts and Humanities degree at The Open University at just 16 years old.
Chloe shares how she’s using the skills she learned in her rewarding role at a busy NHS hospital, while pursuing her dreams as a writer.
A breath of fresh air
Taking a different route to her peers and entering higher education at such a young age was daunting for Chloe, but she trusted her instincts and embraced the adventure.
“I remember feeling nervous at first and unsure whether I’d be able to take responsibility for my own learning,” Chloe recalls. “I needn’t have worried. I found the materials engaging, rigorous and I loved being able to choose when I worked. Exam technique didn’t feature heavily, and it felt like a richer education for it.”
Finding that distance learning suited her, Chloe started to grow in confidence and relished being able to delve deeper into subjects that fascinated her.
“It was like a breath of fresh air. It no longer mattered that I was shy at school and didn’t like asking for help in front of the class – the tutors answered all my questions promptly and I soon began to feel in control of my studies,” says Chloe. “The assessments weren’t just something to be crammed for, they were opportunities to develop, research and apply ideas.”
Skills for success
Despite distance learning being a great fit for Chloe, achieving her degree was by no means an easy ride. Chloe reflects on what she thinks it takes to succeed as an OU student.
“You don’t have to do it alone. When I was going through a tough time personally, my tutors went above and beyond to support me,” Chloe recalls. “I also used student forums for feedback on assignments, so it was never a lonely experience. There’s always someone online and happy to talk.”
Finding that having a strict timetable in place was crucial, Chloe has this advice for anyone considering OU study.
“Lifestyles can be really hectic for OU students, but having a set place and time to work that is ringfenced and respected, is very important. There’s a danger with the flexibility the OU offers, albeit liberating, of not being organised sufficiently to study methodically and regularly,” Chloe says.
“It’s also about remaining positive and being determined to enjoy the courses. Even if you can finish some of your set work, it’s vital to pat yourself on the back, be your own cheerleader. You mustn’t allow OU study to feel like a chore.”
A bright future
Having chalked up a first-class degree by the age of 20, Chloe describes the career boosting skills she developed throughout her OU journey.
“All the modules I took taught me how to think analytically. I now take a step back and a deep breath when the latest challenge comes along.”
Chloe adds, “I’m more patient than I used to be when it comes to problem-solving, which must be down to four years of independent study at the OU! I’m also more resilient – working towards my degree made me realise that everyone can get through challenges, especially when the way ahead doesn’t always seem particularly clear.”
Since graduating, Chloe has had her first novel, Dragging a Donkey Through Treacle, published and crafted regular blogs for two charities – all while holding down a busy job in a NHS hospital.
“It wasn’t until I applied for my NHS job that I realised what an impressive reputation the OU has with employers,” says Chloe. “OU study demonstrates independence, self-motivation, organisation – qualities which the OU nurtures, and that really appeal to employers.”
When asked about her aspirations for the future, Chloe’s passion for writing shines through.
“I’m under no illusions how hard it is for a young writer to break into the literary world, but as I’m working on my second novel, I’m hopeful that I can support myself financially and still find the time to be a writer,” says Chloe.
“I’m now benefitting from the skills my modules taught and developed. Whenever I’m writing, I’m constantly aware that I’m putting important elements of my university education to good use. Thanks to the OU, my higher education turned out to be more fulfilling and rewarding than I could ever have imagined.”
