Dean Steventon

The most rewarding part of studying through Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) distance learning, has been seeing the hard work, commitment and dedication pay off.

Receiving those academic results and being immensely proud of what I have achieved through the support and guidance on the programme have been excellent and has attributed to my success.

The skills and knowledge I have gained during my study have benefited my career with internal promotion, the ability to provide effective leadership to my teams and the confidence to look at further progression within my field. I feel much more prepared and equipped to motivate my teams and to provide evidence-based leadership.

Following a break from academic study, the initial challenge was getting back into the routine of studying, as well as managing work and life commitments. I needed to be disciplined with what free-time I had to ensure that I gave my study the level of attention required, whilst also maintaining a healthy work life balance. I achieved this by creating a timetable, providing protected time for study, but also factoring in downtime. This allowed me to ensure that I completed academic study little and often, keeping my mind fresh, whilst ensuring that I kept a healthy mind-set.

Set realistic timescales, give yourself enough time for things you enjoy, allocate family time but also ensure that you protect study time little and often. Remember, everyone’s commitments are different, and some people may seem to be way ahead of you. We all learn at different paces. Also, to reach out for support if needed.

Ensure you have all the information you need about the course, and it meets your needs. It is a huge commitment and a challenging time, but it is so worth the end result.

ARU have provided me with a very positive, enjoyable and beneficial learning experience, which I feel very fortunate to have been able to participate in.

I would highly recommend my course to others who are looking for a degree in management and leadership which will equip them with the skills and knowledge that can be applied to the real working environment. For those who need the flexibly to fit study around their other commitments, this course always provides you with that flexibility. I have thoroughly enjoyed the course and cannot recommend it highly enough.

My ARU experience started out with the classic anxiety, worried about managing time and being a distance learning student, would I manage? I have left with a newfound confidence, resilience and enthusiasm for distance learning and study in general. My experience has been such a positive one, with many highs and lows. The experience has shaped me for future study and given me skills for life, both personally and professionally.