Brittany is a third-year transfer student in the Bachelor of Business and Administration program at Athabasca University. Giving an interview to The Voice Magazine is now something she can check off her bucket list! This is her story.
Could you please provide us with a brief introduction? Who are you? What program are you enrolled in?
My name is Brittany and I am a transfer student from York University. I am currently in my third year of a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree with a Human Resource Management focus and I am enjoying my program.
Could you describe the path that led you to AU? What was it that made you realize you wanted to go back to school, and what pushed you into the Bachelor of Business Administration program?
I decided I wanted to go back to school but I found it difficult with traditional schools because I work full-time. I decided to switch to Athabasca University because it allowed me a better work-life balance. I decided on the Business Administration with a Human Resources focus because I am working towards getting my Human Resources Designation and the degree would help me achieve this goal!
What do you do like to do when you’re not studying? Any hobbies?
I like to travel, scrapbook, and check items off my bucket list when I am not studying.
Scrapbooking is such a unique hobby! What do you love about it?
Scrapbooking gives me the chance to relive some great memories that I have had!
What are some of your bucket list items?
My bucket list consists of things that I want to do in my life, such as skydiving and traveling!
What are your plans for this education once you finish? What would be your dream job?
My dream job would be to attain a position as a Human Resources Generalist position to start and work my way up to a Human Resources Manager. Tto do this, I need to finish my degree and obtain my human resources designation.
Who in your life had the greatest influence on your desire to learn?
My parents. They always pushed me to focus on something that interests me and learn everything I can about the subject matter.
Could you share your experience with online learning so far? What do you like?
Online learning provides me with a lot of flexibility. I can work at my own pace and I can schedule my life around my studies.
Is there anything that you dislike about online learning?
I dislike that there are no deadlines. I have to push myself harder to focus on my studies and stop procrastinating, which can be hard at times.
At what point did you waver the most about continuing your schooling? What caused it and what got you through it?
I wavered about continuing my education while I was taking a core philosophy course. This course was one of the hardest courses I have ever taken. I struggled a lot and felt like giving up and dropping out of the course. I got through it because I knew I wanted to complete this degree and I knew this course was required. I had no choice but to finish the course. So, I buckled down and spent extra time focusing on the course and studying for the final and I was able to complete the course successfully.
What’s your favorite AU course that you have taken so far, and why? Would you recommend the course to others?
My favourite AU course so far was ADMN 233 (Writing in Organizations). I found this course extremely enjoyable because I was able to use what I learned in the course immediately at work. I also really enjoy writing and the entire course was doing just that!
Have you given anything up to attend AU?
I have not had to give up anything to attend AU. AU gives me the chance to study while having a life outside of school.
How do you find communications with your course tutors?
Communicating with my course tutors is easy. I have not had any issues communicating with them. Sometimes the only concern is when I reach out to a tutor—because I know it can take some time for them to get back to me—I worry, or I have to wait until I receive a response to continue with my course.
What’s your pet peeve if you have one?
My biggest pet peeve is when the myAU site is down or not working and I can’t access my course webpages. Not having access during these times can definitely put a dent when trying to work through my courses.
What famous person, past or present, would you like to have lunch with, and why?
One famous person I would like to meet is Rihanna. She is an amazing singer and she has launched one of the most successful businesses “Fenty Beauty.” I would love to talk to her about how she came up with the idea.
Could you describe the proudest moment in your life?
The proudest moment of my life is when I achieved my first Bachelor’s degree. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy with a minor in Psychology.
What is one thing that distinguishes you from most other people?
I have an invisible disability that sometimes makes it difficult for me to do daily activities.
What is the most valuable lesson you have learned in life?
The most valuable lesson I have learned in life is that despite any circumstances that may arise, never give up.
Have you traveled? Where has life taken you so far?
I have traveled to a few countries. Some of the countries I have been to include: Jamaica, USA, France, Monaco, and Italy.
Out of the places you have been to, which was your favorite and why?
My favorite place was Jamaica because it was an all-inclusive vacation. I could eat what I want, when I want. I also really enjoyed having the chance to lounge by the beach!
What (non-AU) book are you reading now? Could you describe the book and would you recommend it?
I am currently reading Becoming by Michelle Obama. In this memoir, Michelle tells us the story about how she became who she is today. I would recommend the book because I found it inspiring.
