Posted on 8 May 2026
Our LearnersSamantha Bradford, Open Polytechnic Bachelor of Business (Accounting) graduate can’t wait to see what new career doors open after our Christchurch graduation ceremony on 7 May.
“It feels amazing to graduate, you picture the end during your studies, and it seems so far away, especially when you're only starting, but to actually be finished and onto a new chapter is so exciting,” Samantha says.
“My qualification was very practical; I can use it to further my knowledge, and I have gained access to jobs and a career path that I wouldn't have been able to otherwise.”
Samantha had enjoyed studying accounting at high school but didn’t really have a plan when she first enrolled at Open Polytechnic.
Now she is excited about an accounting-based career.
Flexible learning through New Zealand’s leading online made it possible for Samantha to balance study with home life, including raising three young children.
“Studying accounting while growing our family has helped me gain essential skills such as budgeting, during a cost-of-living crisis, and time management to be able to balance everyone's busy schedules,” Samantha says.
She is grateful for the Open Polytechnic resources available.
“They were great, I got such good support when I needed help, and the resources available helped me get a deeper understanding of assignments,” Samantha says.
Samantha is excited about her future career prospects.
“No matter where you are in life, you can easily fit in time to study and move towards the future you want for yourself,” Samantha says.
“I am able to show my children how hard work can pay off, and that really anybody can do it.”
“More doors have opened to me now that I have my qualification, and I'm so excited to see what I get up to next.”
Open Polytechnic celebrates its 80th anniversary in 2026, with Samantha grateful for the role it plays in providing education.
“Happy Anniversary,” Samantha says.
“Eighty years of helping Kiwis gain education and skills to better their future is wonderful.”
“Many more years to come and many more people to find careers and employment thanks to Open Polytechnic.”
Photo: Samantha Bradford second from right, celebrates graduating at the Open Polytechnic ceremony with family.