Some of the things I have learned, picked up along the way and just some feelings around this journey as a full-time working Mum. Studying for a degree is hard, albeit the Open University made it a lot easier to face. I never imagined how difficult it would be to juggle a full-time job and the responsibilities of motherhood. But I did it, I adapted and so did the family. Oh, and I started just before COVID times too, could I have set myself a bigger challenge?
The Power of Flexibility
One of the biggest benefits of studying with the Open University is the flexibility it offers. As a full-time working mother, the ability to shape your study schedule around professional and parenting commitments becomes a game-changer. No fixed lecture hours or campus obligations mean you can access course materials, lectures, and tutorials at times that suit your unique lifestyle. I got myself into a little routine after a few months, Saturday mornings and my non-working day became staple study times.
Balancing Act
Studying for a degree while managing a full-time job and being a mother is undoubtedly a balancing act. From meeting work deadlines to ensuring the well-being of your family, each day becomes a careful orchestration of priorities. Yet, it’s in these challenges that you discover your own resilience and determination. I was lucky enough to get this degree opportunity through work and so it was a degree apprenticeship, I had 20% of my working hours dedicated to study. This really helped to keep on top of my study; 7 hours a week was dedicated to uni.
Late Nights and Early Mornings
As a full-time working mother and Open University student, your study hours may often extend beyond the traditional 9 to 5. Late nights and early mornings become your quiet sanctuaries, where the hum of the laptop and the glow of your textbooks accompany the stillness of the night or the dawn of a new day. These moments of solitude become a testament to your dedication and passion for learning. My study time was in the evenings, I often sat until past midnight typing up notes and writing assignments. I had to grab as much time as I could, when I could.
The Support System
Behind every successful full-time working mother pursuing a degree with the Open University is a robust support system. Whether it’s a supportive partner, understanding colleagues, or family members willing to lend a helping hand, the journey becomes less daunting when you have a network cheering you on.
Triumphs of Multitasking
Multitasking becomes an art form—a skill honed to perfection. From conference calls and kids clubs to essay writing and bedtime stories, you learn to seamlessly transition between roles. These multitasking triumphs not only demonstrate your prowess but also instil a sense of pride in your ability to conquer diverse challenges. I am really proud of myself and what I achieved, resilience and multi-tasking is definitely a skill I improved on.
Celebrating Milestones
Every completed assignment, passed exam, and achieved milestone is a cause for celebration. As a full-time working mother with the Open University, each step forward is a testament to your dedication and a reminder that you are not just managing, but excelling in every facet of your life. Every assignment score announcement I sat with my eyes partially closed wondering if I was going to pass or not. A degree apprenticeship is not only the academic side of things, but it is also is the apprenticeship side, it was almost double the work and double the assignments, it was so tough at times that I really felt like celebrating with every piece of work submitted.
This has been a really hard and steep learning curve, but I really wanted to get the degree and so my determination kept me going. It has involved challenges, sacrifices, and moments of triumph. It’s about embracing flexibility, mastering the art of balancing, and finding joy in the small victories. My one overall tip I have is to be organised, understanding your weekly calendar and routine means you will be able to plan study time and having a study book for your notes means you can pick up and continue when appropriate.
If you are thinking of venturing on this journey, then just remember it is possible and you CAN do this. I would love to know if you have already started on this journey and how it is going.
