Honiton graduate triumphs over adversity

Jen Satterley from Honiton is celebrating a remarkable achievement after being awarded a First-Class Honours degree in Environmental Sciences from the Open University, following 12 years of study and personal challenges.

Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at just 28, Jen was only two modules into her course when her life changed dramatically. The diagnosis brought an end to her dream of a career in conservation, and she temporarily paused her studies to focus on her health. Over time, the condition progressed, leaving her in a wheelchair with limited hand movement.

At 40, Jen crossed the graduation stage at Poole’s Lighthouse arts centre in her battery-powered wheelchair, cheered on by her proud family. “Even though completion was bittersweet for me, I eventually graduated with a First,” she said. “I’m so glad I went back to finish what I started.”

Jen also lives with nystagmus, an eye condition that causes deteriorating vision. She credits the Disabled Students' Allowance for helping her complete her degree, providing a large monitor, specialist software, and voice recognition tools that enabled her to write assignments when she could no longer type.

“The student support team were incredible,” she said. “During covid, when I had to isolate alone, studying gave me something to focus on.”

Though MS prevented her from pursuing her original career path, Jen says her motivation was to achieve something positive in the face of adversity. Now, she hopes to raise awareness of the challenges disabled people face daily.

“If everyone in school spent just half a day in a wheelchair, they’d see how hard life can be. True empathy comes from experience,” she said.

Jen’s story is a powerful reminder of resilience, determination, and the importance of accessible education.