Learners Like No Other is a new series where real students and alumni share how online learning at AU is like no other university experience. Submit your story.
Justin Sarris
Master of Business Administration ’24
📍 Kelowna, B.C.
Why was online learning at Athabasca University the right fit for you?
The asynchronous program was the right fit to allow me to continue working in an event-based industry with shifting schedules. Throughout the pandemic, it allowed me to build a business while integrating my studies with my work. Overall, the program allowed me to optimize my own productivity.
How has studying at AU helped you achieve your goals (personal, professional, academic)?
Immeasurably. Earning an MBA was a fulfilling project of great personal importance. It gave me authority in my (relatively new) field of marketing, allowing me to complete a drastic career transition that has benefited my career and family. It helped me prove to myself that I could set stretch goals (e.g., earn a 90%-plus average) and achieve them.
What obstacles have you had to overcome to pursue your education? How did you overcome them?
I was laid off four days after being accepted into the program, due to COVID. In order to pursue this education, my family and I moved into my parents’ basement and started new businesses. I knew I wanted to complete my studies, and I built my digital marketing consultancy around this objective.
How do you balance your studies with other responsibilities like work or family?
Strong habits and relentless time blocking. The asynchronous nature of both the program and my work allowed me to schedule two-hour sprints from early in the morning until 5 p.m. I'm grateful that I was able to spend every evening and most of my weekends with my family.
Who is your biggest cheerleader that helps you stay focused on your goals?
I am truly fortunate to have such a supportive family. My parents provided the opportunity for us to reduce our expenses so I could complete the program during uncertain times, and my wife and children were nothing but supportive throughout the entire program. My wife, Amy, is the hardest working person I know—she had a similar experience during COVID and took the opportunity to start a landscape maintenance business while I was just getting started, so I could focus on my studies.
What's your favourite course?
RVET 651: Visionary and Entrepreneurial Thinking
What are your plans for the future, after completing your AU program?
Continue building my business, buy a home—we recently succeeded in doing so!—and eventually, travel more.
How is your AU education different than what you've experienced previously? (a.k.a. - How is AU like no other?
AU let me learn what I wanted to learn in a way that worked for me. I felt I could be incredibly productive both in my studies and my work.
Share your story to win!
Click on our entry form to answer questions about your education journey and to share photos to accompany your submission. Published writers win an AU swag pack!