As always, I start each year of my pathway with incredibly good intentions, telling myself I’m going to work two weeks ahead then I’m prepared for anything life throws at me – I’ve even had the privilege this summer of trialling an early opening to some of the module materials. I said to myself, great, I’m going to get cracking. In typical fashion, this hasn’t happened! I’ve been told by other students who have done this same module that it would be wise to begin reading the texts (there are sooo many) before it starts. So surprisingly, I have got on with some of the reading. I’m not sure it will benefit me though, as I have a terrible memory so I will only end up having to re-read them as each assignment pops up.
I was doing ok with getting the reading done, until my big brown box of books arrived. They always arrive in the dullest of packaging, then you spot the inky blue logo of the OU, and your heart starts to race a little bit faster, and you can’t wait to reveal what is trapped inside. I’m lucky enough to still receive books, studying for a literature degree it would be unusual not to receive physical books! Then it hit me, this was my final box of books, in May it will all be over, and wow, it is definitely a bittersweet feeling. I think back to my first year and how nervous I was opening the box of delights for my AA100 module. Now, that was a Licorice Allsorts module – I got to experiment with all the different subjects across the Arts & Humanities sector and it was beautiful. Some students were frustrated by it, but I remember feeling excited by it – being able to have a go at everything provided a great foundation to my learning, before focusing in on my chosen subjects of English Literature and Creative Writing in the Level 2 modules. I had all good intentions back then too, get ahead, stay on top of my assignments and activities.
Life didn’t work out that way though, life became very… busy, shall we say. So, this combined with the fact that I eventually came to the realisation that I am a last-minute-smash-out-all-of-the-words, kind of student made for a very stressful time. But to any new student reading this, I will say if you are having any type of issue in your personal life – reach out to student support. I have found them so incredibly helpful over the years, they put me in touch with women’s services outside of the university and have really helped me in my personal life which enabled me to continue studying.
I suppose whilst I’m giving out tips – to students both new and old, don’t compare yourself to others in the Whatsapp group chats, Facebook groups or even the Tutor Group Forums. All can be pretty daunting places, and you will come across students that are weeks ahead and will proudly state how much work they’ve done – which is great, but it may (or may not) make you feel a little stressed especially if it’s your first time studying. Some students will advise you to stay away from group chats, I personally enjoy them. I dip in and out and have made some brilliantly interesting friends over the years. In fact, I’m meeting up with a friend in half term with our children and going to a museum for the day. She lives two hours away and that’s the beauty of the OU, you can make friends with people from all over the country who have similar interests to yourself! But remember not to compare yourself, stay focused on your study, mute the chats if needed whilst you get back on track. And the best piece of advice I can give is – if you’ve already used an extension for an assignment you’re struggling to complete, for whatever reason, and a further extension is not an option then please submit something. Submit anything – a brief introduction, or an essay plan! Some marks are better than a zero.
I started studying with the OU in 2018, I did defer one year as life was just too crazy, but it looks like I will be graduating in 2025. For those that are about to start on their adventure with the OU – I am envious of the years ahead of you. You will hopefully make some great friends, learn a lot and push yourself to new heights. If you do face any struggles, reach out to your tutor, to student support – they are there to help you.
Good luck for this academic year and have fun everyone!
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