Former restaurant manager finds rewarding new career path

Transforming Lives: Learners of AU is an ongoing series where real students and alumni share how AU’s flexible online learning model made a difference in their lives and communities. Submit your story.

I have been a manager and held other roles in the restaurant and customer service sector for most of my working career. Although this filled my cup financially and socially, it did not provide any intrinsic rewards.

After my maternity leave, I searched for new opportunities that could make me happy and decided to expand my education. I found Athabasca University (AU) after searching for online accredited universities.

I took a few courses, including Entrepreneurship, and started a business. Although successful for years, I wasn’t physically able to do it full time due to past injuries. I felt like I was back at square one and started searching for employment. Due to the pandemic, there were not a lot of options.

I decided to enrol full time at AU to pursue a career in health that will allow me to have financial success and grow. I hope to secure employment with the government and help create change. I am thankful for AU’s flexible nature as I can stay home with my son and complete my courses in the evening.

The information I have obtained from AU has helped me in my personal life in the form of interpersonal communication and has given me knowledge that ignites other passions and interests. I am only two semesters into my three-year degree, but the benefits are already outstanding.

In encounters with people interested in post-secondary, I recommend AU. The flexibility and the online platform offer great opportunities for everyone. I also encourage part-time study (one course per six months) as an option for someone looking for a hobby.

I believe enhancing your knowledge by completing university courses has many benefits, including improving self-awareness, developing new interests, and creating more opportunities.

AU has many courses to choose from that allow students to pursue interests or exciting new challenges. You may have heard something like this before: “You’ll still be 33 in three years, may as well have a degree by then.” I can’t stress how correct this is; I wish I took the plunge in my early 20s.

I am fuelled and motivated by my beautiful son and supportive husband. Some days are tough juggling being a mom and full-time studies, but I know in the end the rewards will outweigh the difficulties.

I am happy I found a great university that checks all my boxes and allows me to stay at home with my son while upgrading my education.