Learners Like No Other is a new series where real students and alumni share how online learning at ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓis like no other university experience. .
Paul Clarke
Bachelor of Arts in Political Economy ’25
📍Brantford, Ont.
Why was online learning at Athabasca University the right fit for you?
Online learning at Athabasca University was the right fit because it allowed me to continue building my career without stepping away from it. After working in rural land use planning for a few years, I knew I needed a degree to move forward—but I didn’t want to leave a job and team I enjoyed. At the time, ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓwas the only university in Canada offering a fully online degree with no scheduled classes, which made it an easy choice.
The flexibility meant I could take a full course load while working full-time, structuring my studies around both my professional and personal life. I was also able to transfer some credits from my college diploma, which helped streamline the process.
Partway through my studies, I accepted a new role that required a significant move. Because ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓis fully online, the relocation had no impact on my education. That ability to continue progressing in both my career and my degree—without having to choose between the two—was invaluable.
How has studying at ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓhelped you achieve your goals?
Completing my degree was essential for advancing in my career, but I also wanted to study something meaningful to me. Political economy aligned closely with both my interests and my work in land use planning.
My studies focused heavily on macroeconomic policy and history, which directly connect to challenges like housing affordability, job creation, and economic development. Understanding how factors like interest rates, globalization, and government policy influence these issues has given me a strong foundation in my work.
How do you balance your studies with other responsibilities like work or family?
Balancing work, school, and personal life is challenging, but structure made it manageable. I worked a standard weekday schedule, so evenings were dedicated to coursework and an hour at the gym. On weekends, I split my time between studying and resting.
Making time to recharge, stay active, and connect with friends and family helped me stay grounded and avoid burnout.
Who is your biggest cheerleader?
My wife. She encouraged me to return to school and was incredibly supportive throughout the process, especially during the times when I was busy and had less time for anything else.
What is your favourite course?
The Law of Work – IDRL 320 I think everyone should take this course, regardless of their program or interests. It goes far beyond basic employment standards and provides a strong understanding of the legal framework that shapes labour. It was also supported by an excellent tutor who brought a lot of expertise to the course.
What are your plans for the future after completing your ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓprogram?
For now, I’m focusing on my career. Completing my degree helped me secure a promotion, so I’m putting my energy into this new role and its responsibilities.
Looking further ahead, I’d like to return to school to pursue a Master of Public Policy in Housing.
How is your ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓeducation different from what you have experienced previously?
Online education offers a level of flexibility that’s hard to match. I completed my entire degree without ever needing to attend a physical campus. Being able to start courses at different times and study at a pace that fits your life puts a lot of control in your hands.
For working professionals looking to grow their education and career at the same time, there’s really nothing else like AU.
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Click on our entry form to answer questions about your education journey and to share photos to accompany your submission. Writers of published submissions win an ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓswag pack!