Paul Caris: BSc Hons Computing and IT

Paul Caris

BSc Hons First Class, Computing and IT, 2004

"I am a Project manager at Vauxhall."

Paul Caris was a mature 50 when he started studying for his degree, sponsored by his employer Vauxhall Motors.

“Believe me, the thrill of donning gown and cap and going up to receive your award is no less sweet at 54 than it is at 20,” he said.
Now he’s considering another degree. With two colleagues he’s hoping to start on an MSc course in 2005.

Paul said: “Obviously the local University was the best choice both in terms of Vauxhall’s links with the University and because we were allowed to go in works time.”

“Unreservedly, it was a good choice. I was thrilled to be a member of the University. We found the staff supportive and friendly. Also it was a real pleasure to mix into the wonderful multi-cultural world of Luton students. It was particularly nice that the younger students seemed to accept us oldies into their society.”

“Despite 30-odd years in the computing business, at a place like Vauxhall you only tend to see a very small part of the whole. The course gave me good insights into areas I am not directly involved with. Plus my presentations skills have really improved!”

“The people on my course have so far kept in close touch and meet regularly. You need to appreciate that although my course was populated 100 per cent by Vauxhall employees, we didn’t initially all know each other. I like to think that I have made some great life-long friends.”

“When I started my course at the age of 50, people wanted to know what I thought I could get out of it. After all, since Vauxhall were paying for it and giving me time out to do it, they could hardly be expected to want to give me a huge salary increase simply for completing it.”

“I suppose the real reason was that I had been a less than brilliant performer at school and welcomed the chance to see if I could do better.”

“To anyone thinking of starting a degree I would say this – make sure that you know it is what you want, take into account the sacrifice needed to study, then go for it.”

Interview took place in 2005.