Degree that hits all the right notes
ZOE BIGGS has been busy playing bass guitar around the world while studying for a degree and working full-time.
The 27-year- old from Camden, North London, is a member of The Franklys, a four- strong female group who have performed in the U.S. and across Europe.
She also works as an administrator in a solicitor’s firm, and embarked on an Open degree with the Open University in 2007, graduating with a 2.2 BSc (Hons) in 2015.
‘In my age group, I think it is sort of assumed that these days you will have a degree,’ she says. ‘After completing my A-levels, my school regarded going to university as pretty much the only option.
‘So I attended a few open days for universities, but in the end I reasoned with myself that I wasn’t sure what career path I wanted or even what degree I would choose to do.
‘So I decided to study with the Open University and work full-time while I did so. Completing a degree with the OU I think shows an extra level of motivation, dedication and commitment. I didn’t want to get into thousands of pounds of debt studying a subject I might never use in my future.
‘With the OU I was able to pay upfront, take a couple of short courses to see if I liked them and it just grew from there.
‘All my friends were very encouraging of the OU. It was never regarded as a poor man’s choice compared with a traditional university. I think they could see the extra motivation it took to continue to study while also working full time.’
Zoe adds: ‘ When I started studying I wasn’t sure what area I wanted to focus on and the Open degree meant I could take a variety of subjects.
‘ I focused on biology- based subjects for level 2 and level 3 modules as this interested me most.
‘I’ve also gained so many skills, that I — and other students — don’t even realise we’ve learned from studying with the OU.
‘ Independence, confidence in your own ability, determination, resilience, being well- organised — the list could go on.’
Zoe hopes to continue with a Master’s degree in future and also aims for a successful career in the music industry. She adds: ‘I’ve learned that I will only ever get out what I put in.’