Early 30's thinking about OU, am I mad?

pixiedust09

Hi folks, Just looking for a bit of advice really. Im just about to turn 33 and currently work PT in child care. Haven't really studied since GCSE's which I mainly got C's in (except maths which was E ) I have gained an RSA 1, 2 and 3 qualification in Business studies at evening classes many many moons ago and a couple of computer courses with work around the same time, most of which I have forgotten. Just lately though I'm really regretting not studying further in my teens, and feel life is passing me by.

I have often thought about doing an OU degree. Arts, History and humanities always appeals. But not sure If I will find this too difficult, as been out of study for so long. Also can I afford it? Currently only earn about £7000 a year. Can I get a student loan? and will my DH's wages be taken into account? So really just looking for some advice from those who have done it, or who are at a similar point in their lives.

Dunroamin

All OU students are eligible to take out a fee loan, regardless of the household income. Repayments will only be based on the individual's income as well.

You sound quite typical of many OU students so there's no reason why you can't enjoy returning to learning be successful.

Noonar

I am currently topping up my HND to a degree with the OU - I am 44! You will be entitled to a student fees loan, you don't start paying that back until you earn over 21k (I think - might be 22k).

It is hard work fitting the modules in around full time work, but I have enjoyed the challenge - go for it!

pixiedust09

Thanks Dunroamin and Noonar, its good to know that I should be able to get a fees loan.

mummyroysof3

I'm 31 and have 2 years left of my OU degree. I work it around 3 children one of which is disabled and its hard work but I'm still finding it ok. I don't know much about the loans as I'm on old system and get full funding due to low household income but I'm sur ethe 21k figure mentioned is right. Good luck if you decide to go ahead

jaxjax123

You are totally not mad. You sound like me, not the greatest GCSE results but since school trying to better yourself.
I dipped my toe into OU in my ealry 30's. I did 2 small units now I am at a bricks and mortar uni which suits me better.

I feel my life is really turning round. I have much more confidence and it is effecting the whole of my life. It's great, do it!

Tilly_MFW_in_6_YRS

Hi, my husband did a degree with the OU, whilst our children were very young, plus working full time. It was hard fitting everything in but it was the best thing he ever did.

The OU are extremely helpful so give them a call and talk through the funding etc.

Good luck

Tilly

pixiedust09

Many Thanks for all the encouragement folks.

I was wondering if there is anywhere I can look that shows old examples of TMA questions? My main concern is not being able to understand the questions unless they are ''dumbed down'' a bit. I'm a born worrier and just really want to know all the facts and understand what I will be taking on. I did complete the English skills test on the OU website and that was fine. Also is there plenty of support with the OU? Are there people you can ask these stupid questions I always seem to have?

Funky_Bold_Ribena

I didn't do my degree until I was 30, and it took 6 years because I was doing it part time in the evenings.

Don't worry about not understanding things that's what dictionaries are for. Plus you should have plenty of time to chat with other students about the essays that are being set, even if it is online through forums and facebook etc.

Voyager2002

pixiedust09 wrote: »

Many Thanks for all the encouragement folks.

I was wondering if there is anywhere I can look that shows old examples of TMA questions? My main concern is not being able to understand the questions unless they are ''dumbed down'' a bit. I'm a born worrier and just really want to know all the facts and understand what I will be taking on. I did complete the English skills test on the OU website and that was fine. Also is there plenty of support with the OU? Are there people you can ask these stupid questions I always seem to have?

Old examples of TMA questions would not help much, because things change based in part on student feedback. Anyway, you would not jump in with a level 3 module: OU courses start at Foundation level where everything is explained clearly and some people without any educational qualifications are able to cope and go on to complete a degree.

And yes: there is a lot of support. Tutors understand that they are there in order to respond to the needs of different kinds of students, and there are lots of ways in which students doing the same module are put in touch with each other and encourage to help each other (electronic conferencing as well as face to face meetings).

Do be aware that successful study with the OU means that you simply MUST put in a certain number of hours each week: they have carefully worked out the time required for each module and will tell you, and you should take this information very seriously indeed.

Errata

Have you thought about dipping your toe in the water with a free OU course http://www.open.edu/openlearn/about-openlearn/try