Distance learning HE Diploma, anyone else?

[AudTheDeepMinded]

I was going to post this in chat for traffic but I'll be good and try here first. Anyone else commencing an Access to HE Diploma? I've just started one online and would love anyone else to chat with, keep motivated etc.
Background is I qualified in a profession and worked in that career full time until 2010 when I had my first child. I then became self-employed in a related role but decided this year to retrain entirely and am hoping to return to University in 2022.

[EdmontinaDonsAutumnalHues]

Do you mind me asking why you needed the Access course when you already had professional qualifications? Just to get an idea for other people.We’re you advised to get one?

(Don’t know if my experience was unusual - undergrad and professional exams in a previous century(!), long break, and then a completely unrelated postgrad in the last few years. No one mentioned an Access course …)

But anyway, how are you finding it, so far?

[EdmontinaDonsAutumnalHues]

‘Were’ you …

[AudTheDeepMinded]

Sorry @EdmontinaDonsAutumnalHues, been out and about. I was told by the University that I wish to study at that I would need the Diploma. It was because the qualifications I already have were completed so long ago (Masters was 2000). Also, the course I am applying to is a BSC and although one of my 'A' levels as in what counts as a science (Geography), I think they wanted to ensure that I had a firm foundation in chemistry and biology, which will be provided by the Diploma.

[AudTheDeepMinded]

I suppose it might not be the case for all universities though. I was quite surprised and double checked with the departmental admissions officer as well as the general admissions office.

[Junepassing]

Hi - yes I am! I'm doing mine through the distance learning centre. It's been quite challenging, not so much the academic work for me (although it is hard don't get me wrong!) but it's more the amount of time it takes up out of my evenings and days off and I struggle to fit in hobbies and housework etc in addition to my job now, but I'm hoping it will be worth it! I actually quite enjoy writing the essays, they just seem to take so long! Also as I'm sure you've realised, you don't really get any break between each topic. What stage are you at with it and how are you finding it?

[AudTheDeepMinded]

@Junepassing Yay, someone else! I've literally just started with the same company! I'm struggling with getting to grips with the process, where stuff is located and where to fill in answers and upload things. Can't wait to get started on the actual work. Which course are you doing? I'm doing Science/Healthcare.

[Junepassing]

Yes that's probably the most difficult thing to get to grips with! But you soon get used to it I'm doing allied health professions which is a blend of psychology/biology, and you do lots of study skills/essay/personal statement writing stuff at the beginning and a maths refresher unit. I suspect we're doing a similar one or even the same one - shout if you have any questions

[AudTheDeepMinded]

@Junepassing, thanks! I don't have psychology sections, mostly biology and physics. I've also signed up to do a FutureLearn course as an additional bit of stress! They are free courses, have you seen them? I'm doing a five week anatomy/skeletal system course.

[Junepassing]

I've heard of them and actually that sounds like a brilliant one for me to do as I'm hoping to apply to study physiotherapy. I'm still a bit in two minds as I've heard it's incredibly competitive to get a place and I'm a little apprehensive about the work load in the unlikely event I was accepted!

What are you hoping to study at uni and where? (If it's not too outing) You should have no problems if you already have a degree, I only have a couple of rubbish A Levels and consider myself quite thick really so it's all quite daunting for me!

[AudTheDeepMinded]

Morning @Junepassing, I'm hoping to study Medical Imaging at Exeter. I'm not sure about already having a degree, it was some time ago and in a very unrelated field! (but thanks for the vote of confidence) I'm certain you are not thick BTW, especially if you have managed to get through the first bit of the Diploma! Where are you based/hope to study?

[EdmontinaTiresofNameFlipping]

Bumping for new readers …

[AudTheDeepMinded]

@EdmontinaTiresofNameFlipping thanks!