Paul
[Paul studying]
The RAF Technician
"I enjoy what I’m learning in many ways. You couldn’t put in this much motivation unless you were enjoying it to be honest" - Hew
We meet some real Open University students: Paul
As a hospital porter, Paul managed to juggle life, work and the OU as he got set for study.
"It’s made me more rounded, a more complete person, it’s allowed me to take on new challenges; it’s changed the way I look at people."
Interview
Paul talks about the impact of the OU on his sense of identity.
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Well, I think I’ve changed as a person inside through the Open University and the way I’ve learned. It’s opened up all sorts of new things for me I’m quite happy now to do managerial work at work. I’m quite happy to pick up a technical manual and attempt to read that. I’ll quite happily converse with a professor in economics or talk to another student. I recognise diversity more. I think I have much more empathy with certain people. The Open University allows you to give something back to the community.
Biography
Paul was working as a hospital porter when he decided to embark on an Open University course. It was a big step after his early school experiences but it’s been a life-changing decision.
"I got a number of CSEs at school but I was labelled thick and stupid by all the teachers. The biggest surprise on joining the OU was that I could do the work and cope with it, while working full time. I’m now doing a graduate teacher training programme, thanks to the OU.
My greatest challenge at the OU has to be passing my first essay, followed by my first exam in years.
My favourite hobby is running. It’s a de-stresser for me. I run for charity and have completed the London Marathon.
I intend to become a history teacher. I want to teach inner city kids who have been labelled like me to show them they can change - that. anybody can do this, anybody, and I’m living proof."
Content last updated: 01/01/2000
