Juggling family, work and study: how online uni enables career development for mums
Between raising children, working full-time, and supporting her family, Bernis’ life was already full. But quietly persisting in the back of her mind was her desire to grow professionally and prioritise career development.
When a team lead role opened up at the residential aged care facility Bernis was a nurse at, she quickly applied. But despite having a Bachelor of Nursing and 8 years of hands-on experience, it wasn’t enough. What they were after was more qualifications.
Bernis realised that if she wanted to progress in her career, it would mean returning to study–something she didn’t see coming. It had been a decade since she'd done any kind of study, and with so much industry experience she didn't see herself as a student anymore. “This is the time for the kids to study, not you!” she laughs.
It wasn’t until she discovered Open Universities Australia that she realised there were other options out there–options that wouldn't involve her choosing between life’s demands and chasing her career goals. In fact, there were thousands of others like her studying courses from leading universities entirely online through Open Universities Australia.
The reality of becoming a uni student later in life
Like Bernis, attending university in person just isn’t possible for many people–especially later in life. “I don’t think I would be able to even go to uni to attend my lectures, no way. That’s the reality... if people are doing it then they are amazing.” Bernis explains.
Open Universities Australia provides a solution to this, with access to thousands of online courses from leading universities all around Australia, all in the one place–so people like Bernis have the same opportunities as others to go after their goals, and to have a high-quality university experience without having to be on a campus.
Through Open Universities Australia, Bernis was able to enrol in a Graduate Certificate in Health Care Management with Murdoch University in Western Australia—all without uprooting her life in New South Whales. The flexibility of studying online meant she could continue working, look after her family, and study during the small windows of time she carved out just for herself.
Being a not-for-profit, Open Universities Australia also offers a completely free student advisory service–a team of local university experts dedicated to helping you choose the right course, understanding your goals, helping you enrol, and giving you a confidence boost when you need it.
Finding confidence in starting something new
Today, Bernis is well on her way toward a job she’s passionate about, empowered by the support, knowledge and sense of pride she’s gained along the way, “It’s exciting for me because I’ve started something.” She's not just gained new skills; she’s unlocked a different future and a strength in her identity as both a parent, career woman and student.
For anyone out there wondering if it’s too late to start–or too hard to juggle–Bernis' story is a powerful reminder that higher education isn’t just for school-leavers. It’s possible for anyone ready to take that next step, no matter when they start or where they are starting from.
Need help figuring out your next step? Book an Open Universities Australia phone consultation today to explore some options that will help you make that change you’ve been dreaming of but have been too uncertain or nervous to go after.
