ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓ

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. .

Why was online learning at Athabasca University the right fit for you?

Online learning at Athabasca University just made sense for where I was in life. I was working full time, raising a family, and deeply involved in my community—I couldn’t hit pause on any of that. AU’s flexible, self-paced approach meant I could keep showing up for the people and work that mattered to me, while still moving forward with my education.

What really stood out, though, was how supported I felt during my program. Being recognized with the ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓCommunity Leadership Award was such an encouraging moment. It reminded me that my efforts—both in my studies and in my community—were seen and valued. That kind of recognition doesn’t just boost your confidence. It makes you feel like you truly belong.

How has studying at ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓhelped you achieve your goals (personal, professional, academic)?

Studying at ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓcreated the space I needed to focus on myself—on my personal and professional goals and on the kind of future I wanted to build. Life was full: I was working full time, raising a family, and deeply involved in my community. AU’s flexible model made it possible to keep learning without putting everything else on hold.

Professionally, it strengthened my foundation for the work I was already doing in leadership and communications. I was able to apply what I was learning right away—even before graduation—which isn't possible in most traditional learning environments. The coursework felt relevant and actionable, and it helped me grow more confident in my skills and direction.

What obstacles have you had to overcome to pursue your education? How did you overcome them?

I took my first course at ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓin 2005, when my children were just three and six years old. I made a personal promise to graduate before they did. I almost made it—my oldest finished before I did—but what mattered most was showing them the value of education, and the importance of working on yourself and pursuing big goals, even when they’re not easy.

Over those years, life brought its share of challenges. In 2016, I received a significant health diagnosis that made everything in life—including school—more difficult. There were also seasons when work and family responsibilities had to come first, and I had to press pause on my studies. And like many adult learners, I struggled with self-doubt. Was it okay to spend this time and money on myself? Was I asking too much of myself and those around me?

But I kept going. Every time I paused, I returned. I took it slow and steady, one course at a time. It wasn’t a straight line, but it was deeply meaningful. What kept me moving forward was the flexibility ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓoffered, the support of my family, and a quiet determination not to give up on something that mattered so much.

Overcoming those obstacles took time, patience, and persistence—but it taught me that investing in yourself isn’t selfish. It’s a way of showing up fully—for yourself, and for everyone who’s watching you lead by example. 

How do you balance your studies with other responsibilities like work or family?

Many nights, my children and I did our homework together at the kitchen table. I read textbooks on the sidelines of soccer fields and curling rinks. I took my books to work and often dedicated Saturdays or Sundays to schoolwork. I even used my vacation time to finish assignments. It wasn’t easy—but it was absolutely worth it.

One of the things that helped me most was learning to be highly organized and disciplined. Whenever I started a new course, I would review all the materials right away along with the suggested study schedule. Then, I’d shift every deadline up by about eight weeks and put it all in my calendar. That way, I could work ahead and build in wiggle room in case life got busy—as it always does.

I also leaned on my support network—family, close friends, and co-workers—who all understood how important this goal was to me. Balancing school, work, and family required planning, sacrifice, and many late nights, but I was determined to see it through. Not just for myself but also to show my children what it means to set a big goal and stay with it, even when it’s hard. That purpose carried me through—and made achieving my degree one of the most meaningful milestones of my life.

Who is your biggest cheerleader that helps you stay focused on your goals?

I couldn’t possibly choose just one—I had several, and each played a different role in helping me stay focused and keep going.

My husband was a steady support, often taking on extra family and home responsibilities so I could carve out time to study.

My mother has always been a champion of life-long learning, and there were times I’d go to her house to do my homework. There’s something about having your mother quietly watching over you that keeps you focused and grounded. My father was a quiet cheerleader— while he didn’t say much, I always knew he was proud of me.

My co-workers were also incredibly encouraging. They listened as I discussed ideas, celebrated my progress, and helped me stay connected to the bigger picture.

My children, especially once my oldest started university, were a constant reminder of why I started this journey in the first place. Being able to share the ups and downs of school with them created a connection I’ll always treasure.

I didn’t do this alone—and knowing I had people in my corner who believed in me made it possible to believe in myself, even on the hard days.

What's your favourite course?

My favourite course was also my last one—CMNS 419: Digital Storytelling. It brought together so many of the things I love about communication: creativity, connection, and the power of narrative. The course explored how stories evolve in the digital age, and how platforms like blogs, podcasts, video, and even online games are shaping the way we share and understand personal experiences.

I loved how the course challenged me to think differently—not just about how stories are told, but why they matter. Whether we were working with photography, comics, audio, or video, it reminded me that storytelling is still one of the most powerful tools we have to create meaning and build community.

It was the perfect final course. After years of study, to end with something so creative and reflective felt like a full-circle moment—one that honoured both the academic and deeply personal parts of my journey.

What are you plans for the future, after completing your ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓprogram?

Now that I’ve completed my ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓdegree, I’m ready to step into a new role that will really put my communications and writing skills to work—both strategically and tactically. I want to keep making an impact through meaningful, values-driven work, and I'm excited to take everything I’ve learned and apply it in new ways. And the learning isn’t stopping here—I’m already applying to graduate studies! My time at ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓreminded me how much I love learning, growing, and challenging myself. I’m ready for what’s next.

How is your ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓeducation different than what you've experienced previously? (a.k.a. How is ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓlike no other?)

ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓwas like no other educational experience I’ve had—because it was built around my life, not the university’s. Instead of asking me to press pause on my family, my career, or my community work, ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓmade it possible to keep learning alongside everything else that mattered to me.

As a non-traditional learner, I felt seen, respected, and supported. ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓdidn’t just open the door to higher education—it welcomed me in with a model that understood the complexity of adult life and still believed in my potential. That made all the difference.