Its never too late to learn, say OU students (From Western Telegraph)

Its never too late to learn, say OU students

Open University students from Pembrokeshire are urging others to consider taking up the challenge of long-distance learning.

The students are among hundreds from Wales who will be attending a degree ceremony in Cardiff on May 11th.

Ian Hancox, of Camrose, took up an Open University course after taking early retirement.

The former manager, who is 56, said: I did the degree because I did not want to vegetate. I wanted an academic challenge.

Ian, who is former secretary of the Haverfordwest Male Voice Choir, gained a BSc in social sciences, a subject which has always fascinated him. It took him six years to complete.

He said long-distance learning was possible, as long as you are prepared to stay committed.

Sometimes you feel like throwing the towel in, but if youre studying something youre really interested in, it pulls you through.

Ive really enjoyed studying with the Open University and my achievement is a great feeling.

Patrick Soper, from Haverfordwest, gained a BA specialising in sociology and English. He took six years to gain the degree, with a years break. He said the study has given him a broader and richer outlook on life and changed his view of himself and his abilities.

It opens your perspective on life, said Patrick, who works at the Tax Office in Haverfordwest. Im 54 and Im still finding out new things! Id recommend it to anybody.

Withybush Hospital theatre nurse Julie Milewski, of Llawhaden, has completed a BSc specialising in environmental science and is now working on a law degree.

Her aim is to specialise in environmental law. She had always wanted to do a degree but never had the opportunity to study full-time.

Much of her studying took place in snatched spare moments - in work breaks, while travelling, and in the middle of the night.

Her family have supported her throughout - and her husband, a surgeon, is now considering doing a degree himself.

She took six years to complete her BSc, and now feels overjoyed, elated and relieved.

Its well worth it, said Julie, aged 38. Id recommend it to anybody. Di Durbin, of Narberth, studied for a BSc while her children were growing up. She also worked full-time during this time.

Janis Hughes, aged 45, of Hakin, started Open University when she had to leave full-time education because of family commitments. She gained a BSc in psychology.

Ann Davies, aged 54, of St Nicholas, gained a BSc in natural sciences. She says the degree was undertaken purely to prove to herself her capabilities. She also wants to excite her grandson about the physical world, which formed part of her studies.

Graduates praised the Open University courses. Ian Hancox said: Its an excellent organisation. The quality of the material is very high.

Julie Milewski said the course was well-organised, with regular tutorial sessions. The support is excellent, she said.