AU has helped me grow as an educator

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.

Ava Shum
Master of Education in Open, Digital, and Distance Education student
📍 Markham, Ont.

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

Online learning at Athabasca University was the perfect fit for me because it allowed me to balance my professional and personal commitments. As a full-time professor, my schedule is already quite packed, and the flexibility of online courses meant I could work at my own pace without the pressure of fixed class times. This was crucial in helping me meet my family obligations while still making time for myself.

I was able to complete my coursework during hours that suited my schedule, whether that was early mornings, late nights, or weekends. Athabasca's emphasis on flexible learning truly allowed me to stay focused on both my career and family, while still pursuing my educational goals.

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

Studying at Athabasca University has been a huge step toward achieving my personal, professional, and academic goals. On the professional side, working toward my Master of Education has really boosted my confidence and credibility in my teaching career. It’s helped me become a better educator, bringing new ideas and strategies to my students.

Personally, it’s been a great example for my kids—showing them the value of hard work and lifelong learning. I want them to see that no matter how busy life gets, it’s always worth investing in yourself and your future.

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

Balancing everything while pursuing my education definitely came with its challenges. One of the biggest obstacles was finding time. As a full-time professor, I had a packed schedule, and on top of that, there were family responsibilities to juggle.

There were days when I felt like there just weren’t enough hours in the day to focus on studying. But the flexibility of online learning at Athabasca University really helped me manage it all.

I made a schedule that worked around my teaching and family time, even if that meant studying early in the morning or late at night.

Staying organized and setting clear goals helped me stay on track. It wasn’t always easy, but keeping my eyes on the bigger picture—like improving my teaching skills and setting a good example for my kids—kept me motivated.

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

Balancing my studies with work and family definitely requires some planning, but it’s all about flexibility and setting priorities. As a full-time professor, my work schedule is already demanding, so I’ve had to get creative with how I fit in study time.

I try to make the most of those quieter moments—early mornings, weekends, or even during lunch breaks—to tackle my coursework. At home, I make sure to involve my family in my schedule so they know when I’ll need uninterrupted time for studying. It’s a team effort! And I make sure to set aside time for myself too, even if it’s just a quick break to recharge.

Keeping everything organized with a planner has been a huge help in staying on top of everything. It’s all about finding that balance and being flexible when life throws curveballs.

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

My biggest cheerleaders have definitely been my family. They’re always there, encouraging me to keep pushing forward, especially on the tough days. My kids have been such a big source of motivation knowing that they’re watching me work hard and pursue my education keeps me going. My partner has also been amazing, offering support by helping out with family duties or just being there to listen when I need to talk things through. Their belief in me has made a huge difference in staying focused on my goals, even when the journey gets challenging.

What's your favourite course?

MDDE 604: Instructional Design in Distance Education.

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

After completing my program at Athabasca University, I’m excited to apply everything I’ve learned to continue growing as an educator. I plan to use my Master of Education to enhance my teaching approach and bring new, innovative ideas into the classroom.

My goal is to make learning even more engaging and meaningful for my students. On a personal level, I want to keep showing my kids that it’s never too late to pursue your passions and keep learning. I’m also considering further studies down the road—there’s always room to grow, and I’m eager to see where this journey will take me!

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

Studying at Athabasca University has been like carving my own path through an educational forest, with the freedom to learn at my own pace. Unlike rigid, one-size-fits-all programs, AU lets me dive into my studies when it fits best—whether that’s after a late-night family dinner or a quiet Sunday morning.

The global peer collaboration has added so much depth to my learning, offering diverse perspectives that make each course feel more like a shared journey. And with the AU library, I’ve had endless resources at my fingertips, making every step of the process smoother.

It’s all of this that has made AU feel not just like a university, but a learning ecosystem. It’s not just about finishing assignments or getting grades—it’s about creating a personalized, sustainable learning experience that fits into the bigger picture of my life. That’s what sets AU apart for me.