Masters student Audrey, 29, had a thirst for learning from a young age, but always felt stifled by the education system. Audrey recounts how studying with The Open University (OU) inspired her to pursue a career in education and support young people to find their confidence and self-belief.
“I didn’t think I was fit for university. I always struggled with the rigid framework of school, even art college. It feels like if you don’t fit the mould, you can get left behind and never discover what you’re truly good at,” Audrey says. “My mum studied at the OU many years ago and had been drip-feeding the idea for a while. So, I finally took the plunge and signed up for a BA in Arts and Humanities and I can honestly say it was the best learning experience of my life!”
Supported to study her way
Having the ability to study when and where she wanted was a revelation for Audrey. “I’ve tried a campus environment and I remember just feeling frustrated at the time I was wasting. With the OU, you’re always doing something meaningful.”
Although Audrey prefers to study alone, access to support was extremely important to her. “I’m originally from Belgium and not a native English speaker, which made me doubt myself in the beginning,” she remembers, “but the tutors were always there for me. The feedback they gave was amazing – always giving me something to work on and showing me that I was making progress.”
Flexibility and support were a winning combination for Audrey, who achieved a first-class degree in 2020. “I felt an immense sense of pride and genuinely part of a huge community,” she said, “and the best thing is that I could live my life at the same time.”
That lightbulb moment
During her studies, Audrey attended an inaugural lecture from an OU tutor, which helped determine her career path. Titled ‘Why school is bad for us – lessons we need to learn’, Audrey connected with the concept straight away.
“I came out of that lecture knowing that I wanted a career in education. It completely resonated with me, and I recognised that I could make a difference to kids who feel like I did at school.”
Looking back to the time she realised what she wanted to do with her life, Audrey remembers feeling bewildered. “It was one thing realising that I wanted a career in education, but I didn’t know how to get there,” she says. That’s when Audrey contacted the OU’s Careers and Employability Services.
“The careers consultants were brilliant. I went back to them many times and they were always so helpful.” Audrey added, “It was reassuring to know that someone was there to go through all my options.”
One of the recommendations Audrey received from the Careers and Employability Services, was to volunteer with Barnardo’s to gain experience of working with young people. “That was such great advice. It really helped me when it came to applying for teaching jobs, and I loved it so much, I’m still volunteering to this day.”
Planning her next steps
Audrey couldn’t wait to return to the OU for her Masters in Education. “I did my PGDE with another provider, but I knew I wanted to get back to the OU to gain a deeper understanding of the subject.” She went on to say, “I’m already planning the doctorate! My dream is to carry out research that will improve education for all.”
Reflecting on her OU journey, Audrey explains how the experience has shaped her as a person. “I’ve developed skills that will last a lifetime,” she says, “OU study has built my confidence, boosted my resilience, and taught me to always think critically. Most of all, I relished the autonomy – the OU supports you to do your best, and it’s in your hands to make it happen. I feel like I’m sorted for life now, thanks to the OU”
Inspired by Audrey’s story?
Step into your future with the support of the OU. Register before 7 September for courses starting this October and discover what you’re capable of.
