Athabasca University’s HR program a ‘perfect match’

Transforming Lives: Learners of AU is an ongoing series where real students and alumni share how AU’s flexible online learning model made a difference in their lives and communities. Submit your story.

When the pandemic started in 2020, I was devastated about having to continue school from home, but little did I know this would become a life advantage.

My boyfriend and I started dating in the spring of 2020; the only problem was that he lived 3 hours away from me. Thanks to the flexibility of online studies, I was able to go back and forth for almost a year.

This was my routine was until my school decided to return to in-person classes. At that time, I was left with a big decision.

I could not continue to drive 3 hours to see my boyfriend as this would take a lot of time away from school, so either the relationship had to stop, or I had to find a different school.

Finding flexibility at AU

This is when I found out about Athabasca University (AU) and the Bachelor of Human Resources and Labour Relations.

Not only did AU offer the perfect program for me that met all my interests, the online learning format also meant that I could move to a new city with my partner and continue my education.

A new city also meant new opportunities. Thanks to being able to study on my own time, I was able to obtain an amazing job as an executive assistant. I have been learning more than I could have ever imagined, not only from work but also through school.

Progam a ‘perfect match’

When I was looking for human resources programs, I found most are focused on the numbers and financial side of business. I am a people person, and I need a program that focuses more on this.

For this reason, AU’s Bachelor of Human Resources and Labour Relations is the perfect match for me. I do not feel that I am wasting any time when I log in to do my courses. I feel that every little bit of information will be used in the real world and in my job.

Learning skills for today and tomorrow

My plan for the near future is to complete my degree through AU. Once I have graduated, I want to continue to work remotely and travel.

The skills I’ve developed through online learning allowed me to complete work from home on my own schedule. These are skills I will take with me moving forward and into my career.

Without Athabasca University, I would not have been able to finish my degree without having to sacrifice my relationship and commitments.

Transforming Lives: Learners of AU

Read more profiles of AU students and grads in our series Transforming Lives: Learners of AU.