The student journey
Jeff Wailes, MBA
Time passes so quickly, it seems like only yesterday that I announced the wish to undertake further study, this time for my first love – business management. A conversation with a course tutor at the regional centre quickly leads me towards enrolling on the three year journey to an MBA. Many years in business management, seat of the pants variety, convinced me that there had to be a better, more effective way to do it. Now I know.
Of course, between the first flush of excitement as the course material bounces into the hallway to that letter inviting one to accept an award there lies much learning, many new habits to take on board and hard work (well I have to say that but it is enjoyable most of the time). There is so much in the MBA that would have been of great use during those past years. The theme of blending practice, knowledge and theory hits the spot for me and I wonder why it has taken me so long to realise this. Now, as the memory of final EBI (Evidence Based Initiative) and exam slips into history and I have in hand that much sought-after letter the first emotion is one of relief followed very quickly with a growing pride in the achievement of another degree. It is probably a full two weeks before I get back to earth. Probably a good thing as work is still part of life.
Now thoughts move on to the decision as to a degree ceremony or not. Do I really need to mark this achievement with a formal ceremony? Isn’t the certificate enough? Well, no, there is nothing like the thrill of accepting accolade for achievement. Sounds self congratulatory I know but then again is it not the case that the effort, the work and the achievement deserves formal recognition? Sorting it all out could not be easier. All done in a matter of minutes, on-line, and without fuss, guest tickets arranged and photos sorted at the same time. Why is it that other websites seem to make life so difficult? OU – you need to train the business world in how to set up user friendly websites.
The day dawns
As it is autumn my choice is to attend the ceremony at the Barbican, London. It is such a long time since I visited this famous maze, one that so many people have entered never to be seen again. Well, so goes the reputation.
My worries are soon dismissed. I should have known that the OU would have it all off to a tee. I am guided to the robing area and Lisa makes sure the hood falls in the correct manner. It even makes this 60-year-old look like a student. Off to the photographers and then a little time to relax and parade in those robes that show the world the achievement that is yours. Ooops! Of course the family want to take extra photos and the Barbican offers some really great backdrops. The place is soon alive to the chatter of graduates and families and one cannot help being swept away on the tide of excitement and, yes, pride. But pride comes before a fall. What if I go the wrong way or trip on the stage as I walk towards the Chancellor? Once again concerns are soon put aside as unobtrusive guidance from the ceremonies staff makes it all seem so natural and so easy.
Strangely, I cannot remember the applause as I crossed the stage. I am told later that the daughter in law did cheer rather loudly. I am so involved in the moment of being welcomed into the University community of graduates by Lord Puttnam, this momentous moment captured on camera. Something for the long winter evenings as one reminisces; this is a moment that will stay with me forever.
Thank you OU, and by that I mean all the people that make the University what it is, and made it possible for me to take this student journey. It’s been great.