Sophia's story: studying a gel nail course from home

“The support from Open Study College and my tutor has been fantastic.” - Sophia, 37, Cornwall

Upon completing her gel nails course, Sophia explains that distance learning has been perfect for her in so many ways, including being able to study around her busy family life. She also expresses how she’s excited to get stuck into more beauty courses.

studying a Gel nail course via distance learning

“This is my first course in the beauty industry. I chose distance learning for many reasons as studying in my own time from the comfort of my own home is the perfect way for me to learn around family life. I have four wonderful children aged 18, 11, 6, and 3 and my youngest son is nearly 4 and is non-verbal and has additional needs, so this is one of the key factors for me wanting to study from home. Without Open Study College, I can’t say that I would be able to take part in a course as it just wouldn’t fit into my life’s schedule and routine.

“I have enjoyed studying with OSC so much and have had such a great experience with them that I have chosen to enrol on the e-file course as well, and once I’ve completed that one, I will also be studying their nail sculpting course.”

Studying alongside family and work

Sophia is a very busy mum, wife, and businesswoman. When she isn’t studying, she’s getting involved in family life at the same time as running a business with her husband.

“In addition to studying in my free time, I own and run a removals business with my husband, and breed miniature Dachshunds, which takes up the majority of my time. So, with family life on top of this, you can understand why distance learning is the perfect option for me.

“I really enjoy the flexibility that distance learning offers as it suits my lifestyle really well and even leaves me with a little time for myself as well. However, another reason I chose to study with OSC is that I’m very self-motivated and enjoy learning new skills wherever I can. This feels rewarding and assures me that I can do whatever I put my mind to, but I couldn’t have done it without the support I have received from OSC and my tutor. It has been absolutely fantastic as any questions I have are always answered promptly, with support and advice if needed.

Sophia’s advice to learners

“It's always great to learn a new skill and in my opinion, there's literally nothing to lose, but if I had to offer advice to anyone considering distance learning, I would say to try and allocate a time to do some studying Monday to Friday, even if it's just an hour here and there. And don't pressure yourself to do it on weekends, but it's a bonus if you do! This avoids the stress of rushing to study at the last minute and it’s great to get into a routine to ensure work is completed to the best of your ability.

“There is plenty of support around you if you have any questions, no matter how small or unimportant they may seem, there's always someone from OSC at the end of the phone or email to help in any way they can.”

On reflection of her course, Sophia describes the future she sees herself living thanks to studying with OSC:

“I've thoroughly enjoyed completing my gel nails course and I will be continuing my studies with OSC for some time yet to get all the qualifications required to become a brilliant nail technician. OSC has encouraged me to think about future careers in the beauty industry and that’s why in the long-term I'd like to be a freelance nail technician, as well as running our family business and raising my amazing children.”