Open Polytechnic celebrates graduation

Posted on 3 March 2020

The Open Polytechnic celebrated graduation in May with ceremonies around the country.

The nation’s specialist provider of distance learning, each year the Open Polytechnic holds ceremonies in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.

For Auckland’s Sandra Johnson, graduating with a Bachelor of Business after 14 years of study was a real buzz.

She began her studies after making a career change and realising that she needed qualifications to help her progress in her new job. Beginning her family and then starting up her own company saw her work priorities change, but realising the importance of higher education she kept on with her studies.

“It was actually the confidence I gained as a distance student with the Open Polytechnic that aided my decision to start up my own business, Peninsula People, which specialises in human resource management”, says Sandra.

Once Peninsula People was well established Sandra was ready for further challenges, and she now takes a back seat in the business while she contracts her specialised HR skills to Downer, New Zealand.

Sandra says her studies with the Open Polytechnic not only gave her the tools to succeed in business, but also offered her a variety of skills to use throughout her life.

“Because of what I have learned during my studies I will continue to push myself and have confidence in what I can achieve. My studies with the Open Polytechnic haven’t just given me a qualification, but an intrinsic driver – the basis for a great future. “

Over 680 students will receive their diplomas and degrees from the Open Polytechnic this graduating year.