I started studying at AU at 16, and the transition from homeschool has been seamless

Michelina Hamilton
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology Major
📍 Hamilton, Ont.

Why was online learning at Athabasca University the right fit for you?

Athabasca University has made a huge difference for me because I could begin working toward my degree at 16 years old. Before I began university, I was homeschooled, and AU has been a seamless transition from being homeschooled to studying at university.

How has studying at AU helped you achieve your goals (personal, professional, academic)?

While I study at university, I am also in the process of writing a fiction novel series and continuing to grow my pumpkin business. My online studies at Athabasca University give me the flexibility to work toward my aspirations. 

What obstacles have you had to overcome to pursue your education? How did you overcome them?

My largest obstacle to completing my courses is travelling. My family and I travel for our software testing business, TestLauncher, throughout the school year, which makes it challenging to fit in time for school. To overcome this challenge, I work on school over the summer and most weekends.

How do you balance your studies with other responsibilities like work or family?

I balance my school with family responsibilities by making sure to schedule enough time for both my studies and my family.

For example, I have a younger sister who is happy that I can take breaks to spend time with her. She is homeschooled and is excited to begin at AU when she turns 16, just like I did.

Also, I have two collies, and I am always around throughout the day to play, train, or care for them.

Who is your biggest cheerleader that helps you stay focused on your goals?

My biggest supporter has always been my family. They always encourage me and give me great advice. In addition to homeschooling me through elementary and high school, my family now helps me prepare for exams and improve my essay writing skills in university. My parents both have degrees in the social sciences, and they were the inspiration for me to get a psychology degree. As I've always been taught, knowing psychology is helpful in every aspect of life.

What's your favourite course?:

PSYC 290

What are you plans for the future, after completing your AU program?:

My plans for the future are to work at a business with my family and to be an author.

How is your AU education different than what you've experienced previously? (a.k.a. - How is AU like no other?)

AU is like no other university because it allows me to create my own schedule that fits in well with my lifestyle, which is very similar to my past homeschool experience, and I was able to begin at age 16.