Calling All Filipino Students: Seeking Insights on Pursuing a Master’s at the Open University

Hello everyone!

I hope this message finds you well. As a dedicated software engineer with a bachelor’s degree from the Philippines, I am currently exploring the possibility of enrolling in a Master’s program in Computing at the Open University (OU). My academic journey took an unexpected turn when I decided to leave medical school after my undergraduate studies. Unfortunately, this decision has complicated my ability to obtain some of my transfer documents—particularly the “Honorable Dismissal” from my previous institution. However, I do have access to my Transcript of Records.

After thoroughly reviewing the OU website, it appears that I won’t need to submit those transfer credentials, unlike the local universities I’ve explored. This gives me hope that I will be eligible to apply. However, I would greatly appreciate some insights directly from fellow students, particularly those from the Philippines.

Are there any Filipino students currently enrolled at the OU, particularly those residing in the Philippines and pursuing their Master’s? If so, I would love to hear about your experiences! What documents were required during your enrollment process? What motivated you to choose OU over a Filipino university? Additionally, what has your journey been like so far?

Thank you in advance for your responses! Your insights will be invaluable as I navigate this decision.

One Reply to “Any Filipino students?”

Hello! It’s great to see your interest in pursuing a Master’s in Computing at The Open University (OU). Your background in software engineering, albeit with a detour into medical school, provides a unique perspective that can be an asset in your graduate studies. Here are some insights tailored to your situation that may help you in your decision-making process.

Documents for Admission

Regarding your concern about admission documents, you’re correct that OU has a more flexible approach compared to many local universities in the Philippines. As you noted, for their Master’s programs, particularly in Computing, you typically need to submit:

Academic Transcripts: It’s crucial to provide your Transcript of Records from your previous college or university, which you mentioned you have access to.
Proof of English Language Proficiency: If your previous education was not in English, you might need to submit scores from recognized tests like the IELTS or TOEFL.
Personal Statement: A well-crafted statement outlining your motivation for pursuing this degree, your previous experience in software engineering, and how you envision this Master’s degree shaping your career is important.
References: Often, universities look for academic or professional references. If you can provide references from individuals familiar with your work or academic performance, that can strengthen your application.

Given your unique situation, reaching out directly to the admissions office at OU can clarify any document requirements and provide assurance regarding the Honorable Dismissal issue.

Goals and Reasons for Choosing OU

Many students opt for OU for various reasons, particularly its flexibility and reputation for distance learning, which can be particularly beneficial if you’re balancing studies with work or personal commitments. Here are some common motivations:

Flexible Learning: The modular structure allows you to progress at your own pace and tailor your study schedule to your lifestyle.
Global Access: The OU has resources and a diverse student body from around the globe, enhancing the learning experience through varied perspectives.
Industry-Relevant Skills: The curriculum is often aligned with current industry demands, ensuring that students acquire practical, applicable skills.

Experiences from Filipino Students

While there may not be a vast community of Filipino students at OU, connecting with existing students can provide valuable insights. Some platforms where you can engage include:

Social Media Groups: Look for Facebook groups or online forums focusing on Filipino students abroad or studying at OU.
LinkedIn: Connecting with alumni or current students through LinkedIn can result in meaningful conversations and insights.
OU Student Support: Reach out to OU’s student services, which may also pathway you to existing students from the Philippines or similar backgrounds.

As for experiences, many students have praised the independence the OU program affords, along with the comprehensive support structures available to online learners. However, balancing self-motivation with the demands of a rigorous academic schedule can be challenging, so it’s essential to develop good time management and study habits.

Practical Advice

Engage with Online Communities: Consider joining forums or social media groups related to your field of study or OU in general.
Plan Your Finances: Studying online can have its own set of financial implications. Ensure you budget for tuition, materials, and possibly, technology upgrades.
Stay Organized: Create a study schedule early on to manage your time effectively. Balancing coursework, especially with potential work commitments, requires thoughtful planning.

In conclusion, pursuing your Master’s degree at OU could be a transformative step in your career journey. Your technical background and unique experiences can greatly enrich your studies and future contributions to the field of computing. Don’t hesitate to reach out directly to the admissions office for personalized guidance, and consider seeking out current OU students for insights into their journeys. Good luck on your application, and I hope you find the perfect path forward!

Any Filipino students?

Calling All Filipino Students: Seeking Insights on Pursuing a Master’s at the Open University