Thanks to the power of online learning, Livia is beginning uni life in September, studying her dream degree course! Read on to find out how an online course gave her the boost she needed to get there.
If at first you don't succeed try try try again!
Livia is 23 years old, and has previously faced some challenges in passing her GCSE Maths exam. She had failed in school, and then failed again three times in college. The epitome of resilience, Livia never let go of her dream of getting into university to study Radiology, but she knew she needed this qualification to fulfil the entry requirements.
After a phone call with our team, she discovered the option of Functional Skills, an alternative level 2 qualification.
Livia said ‘When I first called Open Study College in a panic that I needed to sit a Maths test, my prayers were answered when Ashleigh picked up and I came back down to earth as she eased my worries. She told me which exams I could sit, how long online learning can take, and discussed plans for the test. She was also the person to have me question the university admissions to see if they would accept Functional Skills rather than a GCSE, as it would be quicker and maybe even easier for me to complete.’
Commitment to her goals
So, after not studying the subject for five years, Livia enrolled onto our Edexcel Functional Skills Maths Level 2 course. Time was tight, as she started her studies in May knowing her exams were in July, but she was ready to tackle her learning and achieve her goals!
After a huge amount of hard work and dedication, she completed all her assignments and sat her exams in July 2024. You guessed it - she passed with flying colours!
We asked Livia how achieving this milestone felt: ‘I came out of the exam crying as all my emotions and the build up to it finally came flooding in. But my hard work and determination paid off and I passed! I felt like I was stuck, unable to move on with my chosen career without options due to my lack of maths qualifications. This has turned my life around and gave me exactly what I needed when I needed it.’
Plans for the future
Following in the footsteps of her mother, Livia is going to university in September to start her BSc Diagnostic Radiography course, with her sights set on becoming a Radiographer. In 5 years' time, she will be a fully qualified Radiographer working for an NHS Trust, possibly in the main X-ray unit in the A&E department.
The flexibility of distance learning
With a heavy social calendar, the flexibility of an online course worked perfectly for Livia, studying wherever and whenever suited her.
‘I could sit in bed with my laptop and notepad and go through my learning booklet. I could do as much or as little maths as I wanted throughout the day, sometimes being a couple of hours, others being thirty minutes.’
We asked Livia for her advice to anyone who is considering online learning: ‘I would advise anyone looking at learning online that whether you are a busy person or not, you will find the time to fit in your studies. Sitting in bed reading and completing your booklets, watching extra online material, printing, and completing past papers and self-marking. If you really want to pass, then put the time and energy into doing it!’
What are you waiting for?
Livia's inspiring story is proof that online learning can be the vehicle to achieving your dreams. If you have an aspiration waiting to be fulfilled, make sure to have a look at our 700+ courses and qualifications here. Our friendly team are always on hand to discuss your options and support you in finding your perfect course. Give them a ring on 03300 563 100 to have a chat!
