Distance learning: Aliya’s diary

The alarm rings! As tempting as lie-ins are, I always thank myself later if I get up with the early birds.  

As I think about the day ahead and savour a coffee, I scan my diary and emails. It’s a working day, so I will focus on my job in the morning and study in the afternoon. I love that my OU course allows me to fit study around my work.

I jump on the tube and head into Westminster. Whether I’m studying, working or exercising, the right playlist always helps me feel positive and pushes me that little bit further. If it’s a good morning, I’ll shuffle The Cure. 

Get started with our beginner’s guide to distance learning and find out why students picked this route, plus more. 

I’m a Parliamentary Assistant to an MP at HM Treasury (the government's economic and finance ministry).

I arrive in Parliament with enough time to get a warm croissant and some fruit. My mornings are dedicated to my professional work. 

By mid-morning, I’ve made a start on the most difficult to-dos on my list; these are often the little tasks that have rolled over from the previous day. 

Whether working or studying, it’s important to find a reason to get up and take a break from the computer screen. 

I might head up to a colleague’s office or check in with my team, before putting the kettle on.  

With an all-important cup of tea, I take a look at the day’s debates and readings in Parliament, or trawl through recent business papers and motions. This detail often complements my degree learning really well, or dovetails topics I can discuss in more depth through my assessments.  

Discover how distance learning works including how you’re taught and assessed, plus what support is available. 

At this point, my pressing tasks have been dealt with and I will find a bite to eat.

I always keep fruit on hand and some pistachios tucked away in my office, to keep me going on busy days. 

I am very lucky that my colleagues are hugely supportive of my academic work. The Minister I work for is always on hand to recommend great books or discuss key ideas that I’m exploring through my academic research and writing. He is an amazing mentor and supporter. 

As an extrovert, I recharge very easily just by being around people or engaging with others. I notice this even virtually during The Open University’s online lectures or group video calls with fellow students. Talking and bouncing off others’ ideas gives me a real boost, so I make an effort to chat with colleagues every day and schedule regular calls with my university peers. 

Find out how employers view distance learning degrees including career tips and insights from real employers. 

Whether I’m working or studying, it’s essential for my productivity and mental wellbeing that I enjoy some fresh air every day.  

I finish up with my parliamentary work and utilise my workspace for university study.

As the afternoon draws on, I dedicate at least an hour to my OU course as the office empties. 

Through distance learning, I am able to juggle aspects of my life that are equally important but so different. Giving your full attention to one without worrying about the other is essential. I work hard to ensure my career and academic life complement each other. 

Before I leave, I’ll write a to-do list for the next day. This helps me stay on track and jump straight back in the following morning. Lists also help me realise how much I’ve accomplished that day, which in itself can be the motivating boost I need to tackle my evening university tasks. 

During the week I live in London, but I love going back home to see my parents in the countryside.  

Parliament doesn’t sit on Fridays, so I often return home on Thursday evening for the weekend, and work from home the next day. It’s really handy that there’s a copy of all my Open University materials online because it means I don’t have to travel with papers or heavy books. 

There is a social side to university, even when you’re distance learning.  

In the evening, I’ll often ring a fellow student to talk about an upcoming lecture but it’s also good just to check in as friends and enjoy a chat. We also talk about our latest tutor feedback. My lecturers have been great and always find time for a phone call. 

Having never enjoyed rigid educational settings, The Open University, together with my working world of parliament, allow me to truly develop and grow myself. It’s amazing that I can dedicate myself equally to both my education and career.  

It’s time to set my alarms and switch on a podcast as I wind down, feeling lucky to have created a work/life/study rhythm that suits me so well. 

While this is what an average day looks like for Aliya, life as a distance learning student can vary from one student to another.  

Check out our diaries with Data Analyst Abiola and Medical Governance Coordinator Jezanne, to see how they balance studying with work, social lives and other commitments. 

Explore our full distance learning hub, including fees and funding and who might suit distance learning. 

Editor's note: The information above was provided by a student, and reflects their experience studying with The Open University (OU) and their daily routine (pre-Covid). Individual experiences may vary depending on course and personal circumstances. If you would like to learn more about studying with the OU, including questions about a specific course, you can get in touch directly.