Learning from people who have gone before us

Mary Reynolds grew up on her parents’ dairy farm in Taranaki. She always knew tertiary study was going to be part of her future as her parents had taught her the value of education from a young age. After high school, Mary was looking to do something that would challenge her before she pursued further studies. She found this and more when she joined the New Zealand Army as a Logistics Specialist.

Currently posted to 16th Field Regiment at Linton Military Camp, Mary is now fulfilling both her career and study goals. As a Logistics Specialist, her primary role is to ensure her unit has the equipment it needs to achieve its objectives. She is also studying towards a Diploma in Arts in Classical Studies.

Mary says her courses are suited to distance learning.

“Since starting my studies with Massey about two years ago, my bosses at work have been very supportive of my learning and enabled me to take time away from work when needed to facilitate my exams and other aspects of study.

“I chose classical studies because I’m passionate about history and how we can learn from the great (and not so great) people who have gone before us. Many people who join the military, value continuity and tradition, so studying history was an easy decision for me.”

Mary wanted the option to be able to access campus facilities when needed. The proximity of Massey’s Manawatū Campus to her work at Linton Camp was an appealing aspect when Mary was considering providers. Another advantage was the university’s partnership with the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) which enables NZDF personnel and their whānau to access a 30 per cent discount on course fees.

"I’m able to apply for study funding assistance through the Voluntary Education Study Assistance (VESA) scheme, where NZDF will help pay my course fees up to a certain limit each year. Being able to undertake more study using VESA combined with the Massey NZDF discount was very appealing to me," Mary explains.

She particularly enjoys the military history and art aspects of her courses.

“I'm becoming increasingly fascinated with ancient women and I look forward to learning more about them. My ultimate goal is to undertake academic research and writing - great women of antiquity will be a main focus of my work.

“In addition to the course content, I've learnt about time management, self-motivation and other valuable skills that are transferable to my workplace – the Army also values these skills in its people.”

Mary acknowledges that studying while working full-time, particularly in a military environment, can bring its own set of challenges. The nature of the job can be unpredictable and study deadlines can be hard to meet.

“My lecturers have been very understanding of my work commitments and easy to reach out to when I’ve needed further support or assignment extensions. Based on my experience, they are approachable and eager to see students succeed.”

In the future, Mary plans to take her diploma to degree level.

“The Army has the Kippenberger Scholarship Scheme, which enables regular force non-commissioned officers and higher ranks to undertake paid full or part-time study to complete a qualification. This is an definitely an option I’ll be exploring in the future.”

Mary is appreciative of the opportunities and support enabling her to pursue her interests in tertiary study, alongside her NZDF career, and encourages her fellow NZDF members to pursue study.