Hi, my name is Sally, and I’m currently in my second year of the MA Education with Leadership and Management course at the University of Exeter (2023/24). Originally from Plymouth, I completed part of my teaching qualification (PGCE) in Exeter, which gave me a real appreciation for the city and its academic connections throughout the UK. Now, living and working in Kuwait, I wanted a sense of ‘home’ while studying far away, which is why I chose Exeter’s online programme. The option of starting this course at different entry points throughout the year is great, as being able to start in January has worked well with my working schedule in Kuwait.
One of the main highlights of this course is the unwavering support and positive energy from the course leaders and supervisors. They’ve been instrumental in creating a sense of community among us, despite the distance. The programme is exceptionally well-suited for independent study, making it perfect for someone like me who juggles a full-time job alongside academic pursuits.
The sense of community extends to my fellow students. It’s been incredible to connect with other international teachers around the globe, all pursuing the same Masters degree. These interactions have enriched my learning experience and opened my eyes to education from different viewpoints, providing diverse perspectives on education practices worldwide.
My decision to pursue this course was significantly influenced by a close friend who had recently graduated from her MA Education course with the University of Exeter. Her glowing recommendations and good experiences convinced me that Exeter was the right choice. Additionally, the international scholarship bursary made the course financially feasible, removing any financial barriers that could have prevented me from enrolling.
Studying with Exeter has greatly benefited my career. The skills and knowledge I’ve gained have been directly applicable to my current role as a Head of the Design and Technology department. For example, the leadership and management modules have provided me with the tools to implement effective strategies in my workplace with the team I currently work with. This has not only improved my professional capabilities but also positioned me for potential career advancement. The course has empowered me to take on more significant responsibilities and approach challenges with a well-informed perspective. I feel more confident and knowledgeable in my approach to make positive changes for the students I teach in the short- and long-term. This course has provided a holistic overview of global education, which has been the fundamental driving force for my newfound passion to make changes in line with the developing needs of the next generation in an ever-changing world.
The University’s career support services have been incredibly valuable. From CV reviews to interview preparation, they’ve helped me refine my professional presence and feel more confident about my career progression. This support has been pivotal in navigating my career path and planning my future steps at my current school in leadership and management.
Of course, balancing work, study and personal life has not been without challenges. There were times when the workload felt overwhelming, and I questioned my ability to manage everything. However, the University’s wellbeing and learning support services have been a lifeline. Accessing these resources has provided me with strategies to manage stress, stay organised, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
One aspect that pleasantly surprised me about studying with the University of Exeter is the level of engagement and interaction in an online setting. I initially worried that studying remotely would feel isolating, but the course design of weekly tasks and regular emails in addition to virtual meetings in the dissertation phase have created a strong sense of connection. The use of innovative online tools and resources to complete weekly learning activities has also enhanced my learning experience, making it interactive and engaging.
For new online students, my advice would be to make the most of the support systems available and actively participate in discussions and group activities.
Building relationships with peers and module leaders can significantly enhance your learning experience. Also, don’t hesitate to reach out for help when needed – the support available from the University is there to ensure your success.
Overall, my journey with the MA Education Online course at the University of Exeter has been immensely rewarding. It has provided me with valuable skills, a supportive community, and a sense of connection to home whilst living and working in Kuwait, all of which have been crucial in my academic and professional development.
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time studying the MA Education as an online course and would highly recommend it to anyone wishing to pursue further studies whilst working and living abroad.
