Dromore woman fulfils lifelong dream of studying history with The Open University

A woman from Dromore has fulfilled a lifelong ambition of earning a history degree after overcoming personal challenges, family loss and mental health struggles while studying part-time. 

Katharine recently completed a BA in History and Politics with The Open University, achieving a personal goal she had carried with her for decades. 

Katharine originally trained and worked as a Registered Nurse but says her passion for history never left her. When the opportunity arose later in life, she decided to finally pursue the subject she always loved. 

 “I always enjoyed history at school but didn’t get the grades I should have,” she explained. “I went and did nursing and then married and had my children, but studying history at a higher level was always something I wanted to do.”  

The flexibility of studying with the OU allowed Katharine to fit her degree around a busy and demanding life. She works full-time as a Social Work Assistant supporting people with physical disabilities and takes on bank shifts as a healthcare assistant in hospital. 

Most of Katharine’s studying took place after long days at work or on Sundays, while at other times she found herself working through course materials in the early hours of the morning due to poor sleep patterns.  

“Being able to study at home and not having to stick to a fixed class timetable took the pressure off completely,” she says.  “If the OU hadn’t offered flexible learning, studying for a degree would definitely not have been possible for me.” 

Her time as a student was not without significant personal challenges. Following a difficult divorce, Katharine struggled with anxiety and depression while trying to rebuild her life. During her studies she also experienced the heartbreak of losing her father to COVID-19. 

Despite these setbacks, she persevered, supported by OU tutors, regular check-ins from the university’s support teams, and the encouragement of her family. 

“I had absolutely amazing tutors and my daughter has also been my rock,” she says. 

While many students pursue degrees to change careers or gain promotions, Katharine says her motivation was different. Completing the qualification was about proving something to herself. 

“I didn’t do the degree to further my career,” she explains. “I did it for my own personal goal. I knew I was never going to get a first-class degree, but I wanted to be able to say that I completed it, and now I have.” 

Her achievement was celebrated alongside family at the Dublin degree ceremony at Croke Park, including her 91-year-old mother who travelled to see her receive her degree. 

“My mum was bursting with pride and so excited to go to my graduation,” Katharine says. “Seeing how proud she was made it even more special.” 

Reflecting on her journey, Katharine says completing the degree has given her renewed confidence and a deep sense of pride. 

“Studying with the OU has shown me that I could do this,” she said. “I am so proud I have completed a degree with The Open University.” 

Katharine now has simple advice for anyone thinking about returning to education later in life. 

“Go for it. If you’re struggling, keep going. I did not come out with a first class, but I completed the degree and I have been awarded my BA. You can do it.”