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.
Tyler Richard
Bachelor of Management '23
📍Campbellton, New Brunswick
Why was online learning at Athabasca University the right fit for you?
Online learning at Athabasca University was the right fit for me because it allowed me to work at my own pace while continuing to work full time. I was able to immediately apply what I was learning to my career in real time, which made the experience both practical and relevant. Studying online also allowed me to stay home, save money, and earn a full university degree without sacrificing quality or flexibility.
How has studying at AU helped you achieve your goals (personal, professional, academic)?
AU allowed me to pursue higher education without uprooting my life or leaving my community—being able to work while completing my degree gave me valuable, hands-on experience at the same time as I earned my degree.
That combination of education and experience prepared me for leadership roles. The experience and the education gave me a significant advantage and contributed to my growth as a manager and, eventually, to my current role as an executive director of a chamber of commerce.
What obstacles have you had to overcome to pursue your education? How did you overcome them?
When considering university education, one of the biggest obstacles I faced was that I live in a remote area in northern New Brunswick. Traditional university options would have required relocation or long-distance travel, which was not financially or personally realistic. I also could not afford to leave home to pursue my education.
Athabasca University removed those barriers. The online learning model allowed me to access a university education from where I lived, continue working, and remain rooted in my community.
How do you balance your studies with other responsibilities like work or family?
Balancing my studies with work and other responsibilities was possible because of the flexibility online education offers. Courses can be completed at your own pace and students can also choose to take a full course load or just one or two courses at a time, depending on what fits best with their life.
Who is your biggest cheerleader that helps you stay focused on your goals?
My biggest cheerleaders have always been my parents. While they were not able to fund my education, they provided unwavering support by making sure I had a stable place to live, good food, and constant encouragement. That foundation gave me the confidence and motivation to complete my studies and pursue my goals.
I was also fortunate to have strong mentors throughout my career who taught me leadership and management skills that no textbook alone could provide.
What’s your favourite course?
Organizational Behaviour (ORGB 364).
What are your plans for the future after completing your AU program?
My goal is to use my education and experience not just to manage, but to lead, coach, and advocate for growth within my organization and my community.
How is your AU education different than what you've experienced previously? (a.k.a. – How is AU like no other?)
My education at Athabasca University was unlike any other learning experience I have had. AU offered the flexibility to study at my own pace, work full time, and stay in my home community. I could accelerate courses or take them more slowly, adjust my course load as needed, and follow clear study schedules that supported effective time management.
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!