‘I wanted to prove I still had it,’ writes AU grad and senior

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.

Lynda Cowan
Bachelor of General Studies '25
📍Niagara Falls, Ont.

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

I’m a senior, so classroom instruction would not be a good fit. I am also hearing impaired and would not be able to function in a lecture hall.

Why did you decide to go back to school when you did?

When I left high school, many years ago, I wanted to be the first person in my family to obtain a university degree. For economic reasons, I dropped out after my second year.

I have always been a bookworm and loved the library, so I opted to pursue a diploma in library studies, my chosen career until retirement. With all the time in my hands and regret that I never finished my degree, I decided to go back to school.

I wanted to prove that I “still had it” and that age was not a factor. I had accumulated two years of credit back in the day, in the ’70s and in the ’90s, so I only needed a few more credits to get the job done. I looked at the university I went to originally and found it challenging to come up with courses that both interested me and had enough online courses to meet degree requirements.

Athabasca University’s course offerings and flexibility allowed me to complete a lifetime ambition. I was pleasantly surprised at the depth and hard work involved in each credit I took. I am old fashioned enough to want to be challenged. 

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

I completed two years of university at York University in Toronto, after high school, and dropped out due to lack of funds and other supports. Over the years I picked up two other credits through night school or remotely. I refocused and completed a diploma in library information studies at Sheridan College and enjoyed more than 25 years cataloguing books for school libraries. However, a bachelor’s degree was always unfinished business for me.

AU made it possible to complete a full degree remotely. The Bachelor of General Studies degree does not have a residency requirement. This made it possible to complete my final course requirements.

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

My obstacles were age and hearing loss, both of which made traditional learning environments difficult. I am the first in my family to graduate high school, let alone college or university.

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

I’m retired, so I was lucky enough to be able to dedicate my time to my studies.

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

My husband and my sons are my biggest cheerleaders. They all have degrees and knew how much this meant to me.

What's your favourite course?

I loved them all! I had the best tutors as well—always available, always patient.

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

I want to take more courses and travel.

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

AU is different because of its flexibility. I was impressed with the quality of the courses. The tutors are so much more available.