A Return to History, 40 Years in the Making

When Eric from Ballycastle decided to return to education and study for a degree in History with The Open University (OU), it had been more than four decades since he last sat in a classroom.  

“I left school in 1979 with two A Levels,” says Eric. “I liked the thought of studying at my own pace, and I had a friend who re-trained as a Primary School Teacher a number of years ago through the OU and recommended it.” 

Although his interest in education had always been there, life initially took him in a different direction. “When I was at school, employment in my local area was running at 65–70% so I decided to go down the employment route with the aim to study once I got a job. Life then got in the way, and I never pursued it further.” 

That long-held ambition resurfaced in 2016 after a life-changing moment. “My parents died within a number of weeks of each other in 2016 and having been left some money by them I decided to pursue a degree, as my two stepsons and my wife (as well as my sister) all have degrees, and I wanted to challenge myself and see if I could achieve one as well.” 

After 46 years working as a Court Clerk, Eric took partial retirement which led to the perfect opportunity to finally follow his passion for history. “I took a partial retirement from my work in 2016, which enabled me to balance life and study well. I work Monday to Wednesday which allowed me Thursday to Sunday to study.” 

Returning to academia after so long took some adjustment, but Eric quickly found his rhythm. “I didn’t overcome any personal barriers, other than just getting used to studying after over 40 years since last being in an academic environment. About halfway through my studies, my wife and I had to take stock of our finances, and as a result I took a year out to get ourselves stabilised. I was always intending to return to study. I found it easy to re-enter the study path.” 

For Eric, the OU experience opened new ways of thinking about history. “I went into the course not really knowing what to expect. It was completely different to what I was expecting; history at school comprised of kings/queens and dates, the degree opened so many different aspects of history that I had never thought about before. It has re-kindled my love of history which I have always had, but which I have neglected over the past number of years.” 

He credits the OU’s materials and tutors for helping him succeed. “The OU study materials and resources are second to none. They are extremely high quality and very informative. I received assistance from Tutors with their feedback on assignments as well as suggestions for further study.  Other students assisted with various WhatsApp groups.” 

Eric self-funded his studies with support from The Open University Student Budget Account (OUSBA) scheme, which allowed him to spread payments monthly. 

Away from his studies, Eric leads a busy life in his local community. “I am a Scout Leader, Standard Bearer for my local Royal British Legion and Church Secretary. I enjoy reading, music, cooking and baking. One of my standout moments was obtaining a present from the OU Association for sharing a picture of a Christmas Cake which I had personally baked.” 

While Eric’s degree wasn’t about career progression, it has been deeply rewarding on a personal level. “My colleagues were very impressed and one in particular enrolled with the OU as a result of talking with me.”    

As he prepares to graduate in 2025, Eric reflects proudly on how far he’s come. “My family fully supported me throughout my studies and are attending my graduation in October. Achieving this degree, getting married and now being the proud grandfather of a 2-year-old grandson are my proudest achievements.” 

After forty years away from education, Eric knows exactly what he’d tell others considering study later in life. “Don’t sit on the fence, go for it! It gives a great feeling of satisfaction at the end. Remember that you are studying because you want to, not just because you need to!”