Degree gives boost for career direction

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OPEN learning provided the pathway to a positive career change for 48-year-old Aucklander David Wallace.

A psychology major, he is one of the first three graduates in The Open Polytechnic's bachelor of applied science degree and he has been a winner since completing it.

The father of two teenagers, Mr Wallace chose The Open Polytechnic because of the flexibility it offered.

"I could study at home while being a house-husband, and doing some part-time work," he says.

"A degree is very demanding and I couldn't see how I could hold everything together and travel to a university for lectures."

He decided to return to study after achieving all he had planned in helping build a company from nothing to one of the largest of its kind in New Zealand.

"I needed a fresh challenge," he says.

"I love working with people and had done a couple of counselling courses. I decided I needed more serious training if I wanted to have the credibility needed to work in this field.

"Psychology was the way to go and the degree has more clout than any other training.

"It's certainly opened doors for me."

On the way to his degree, Mr Wallace also gained diplomas in communications and psychology.

Now, his qualification has led to work on both sides of the Tasman.

As well as running his own counselling practice, consultancy opportunities have arisen with a major Australian institution, involving corporate systems and personnel development.

This will mean some time away from home, but his family is supportive.

"I couldn't have done the Open Poly work without the support of my family. The three years I studied were packed with a lot of work."

The key to open learning is to believe in your ultimate goal, he says.

"It keeps you going when times are tough. I believe you have to have that goal ahead of you, as a light to lead you on."

Mr Wallace believes the polytechnic provides an excellent service and he has recommended it to others.

He likens attending its Auckland graduation ceremony in May to getting a gold at the Olympics.

"The ceremony was the final curtain, if you like. It had been a good play, and now it was over and real life could begin," he says.

He emphasises that it is never too late to take up a course of study towards a life goal.

"You can do it," he says.