How Kayla used transferable skills from her degree to go from Astronomy to Tech

Kayla’s passion for Astronomy and the University’s distance learning course led to an unexpected career pivot into the world of tech.

Kayla McCormack initially took evening classes in Astronomy, before completing a GCSE in the subject. She then discovered the University’s distance learning BSc (Hons) Astronomy course. This allowed her to study at her own pace while balancing self-employment as a yoga teacher and holistic health coach.

Having been a student for around ten years, she found that the flexibility of distance learning was key to her success. She said, “This has been the difference between me now having a degree and never getting one”. The ability to study at her own pace not only allowed her to complete her degree, but to enjoy the process, immersing herself in the subject over time.

While Kayla loved the entirety of her studies, her final year stood out as a highlight. She particularly enjoyed the dissertation and collaborations modules, which provided her with regular interactions and discussions, and proved to be a nice change for her.

Kayla McCormack, BSc (Hons) Astronomy alumni.
Kayla McCormack, BSc (Hons) Astronomy alumni.

"You don’t have to do a tech-based degree to move into the tech industry."

— BSc (Hons) Astronomy graduate, Kayla McCormack

During her final year at the University, she applied for a highly competitive graduate programme at 'FlutterUKI' (Sky Betting and Gaming). Out of 10,000 applicants, Kayla managed to secure a place in the Technology Graduate Programme, where she is now working as a Graduate DevOps Engineer. “I felt that this best used the analytical, data, and Python skills gained through my degree", she says.

Shifting from a student to a full-time tech professional was a significant and challenging transition for Kayla. “Starting a 9-to-5 job after years of self-employment has been a big change, but also my greatest achievement so far”, she reflects.

Kayla firmly believes that she wouldn’t have secured her graduate role without her degree. She said: “I probably would never have gone to university in person because it wouldn’t have worked with my health and self-employment. Being able to do the distance learning degree has changed my life for the better!”

Kayla credits her tutors for their unwavering support and enthusiasm. “They were always super supportive and genuinely interested in their field and in teaching others”, she adds.

For prospective students, especially those considering a career in tech, her advice is simple: find what excites you and pursue opportunities that align with your interests. She said: “You don’t have to do a tech-based degree to move into the tech industry. Look for graduate programmes that will support your learning and career development.”