Our Students

Meet our graduates and read their success stories.

Karla Miranovich ~ D.F.Astrol.S. ~ March 2025

Becoming a Diploma holder of the Faculty of Astrological Studies is both a great achievement and an honor.

Something that was my dream and goal when I started studying with the Faculty, in 2019, has now been realized, making me immensely satisfied and proud of the progress I have made on the rewarding journey of my astrological education.

Achieving the Faculty Diploma is a truly significant milestone. It is a product of years of dedicated study and a gradual deepening of knowledge and skill. The final exam itself requires a significant amount of work, but also presents an excellent opportunity to test one’s skills both in astrology technique as well as in approaching a live client consultation, focused on the specific areas of interest indicated by the client.

Having completed the whole study program that the Faculty offers – the nine Modules, as well as the final exam with Merit, I feel that I possess a significant body of astrological knowledge, as well as the confidence and skills to use it effectively. Each Module added another layer of understanding astrology and its various applications: in understanding the individual with his/her potentials, opportunities and challenges through natal astrology; examining the potentials of the current and coming time periods using several predictive/timing techniques, as well as understanding the complexities of relationships, through learning to combine and analyze the astrological interaction of two (or more) individuals. This is not even the whole extent of what was taught in the program, which was truly designed to shape a well-rounded astrologer.

I was able to gain skill in not only the numerous astrological techniques, but also in understanding the client-astrologer relationship, holding a live consultation and approaching the astrological material that is most beneficial to the individual client and their needs.

Additionally, I was fortunate to receive two scholarships during my studies – one for the renowned conference of The Astrological Association of Great Britain, and the other for an astrology course taught at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David.

Throughout my studies, I have always felt supported by my tutors and the Faculty staff, whose knowledge and dedication continue to inspire me even after having completed the study program. The Faculty feels like a community – one that inspires you to continuously learn and grow, both as an astrologer and as a person. This, together with the truly comprehensive and rigorous education that the Faculty provides, makes me feel truly honored to be a Diploma holder of the Faculty of Astrological Studies.

Gillian Beighton ~ D.F.Astrol.S. ~ March 2024

I spent 7 years studying by Distance Learning with the Faculty since 2017 and passed the final Diploma in June 2024. It has been an incredible journey of discovery and I have absolutely loved every moment!

I had been interested in Astrology for a very long time but apart from having my natal chart done with ‘Cosmopolitan ‘magazine when I was 26 years old, and reading Linda Goodman’s ‘Sun Signs’, I never had the time to take my interest any further. I had always been convinced that there was real value in what astrology had to offer but life and work just got in the way!

When I retired in 2015 my pace of life slowed and I enrolled on Module 1. I ended up doing all my studies by Distance Learning – partly because of the Covid period, when there was no option. This method suited my learning style too, corresponding regularly with my tutors but also having plenty of time for reflection and practice. I would certainly recommend Distance Learning, which allows plenty of time for reading, understanding and reviewing what’s been covered through the regular exercises. I took the full six months for each module, really enjoying the act of studying as well as the subject (my Gemini Sun and Gemini Mercury in 5^th conjunct SN and Mars may have something to do with that!).

When I started my studies, I didn’t have any clear plan of what I would do with my new found knowledge and expertise. I simply wanted to understand more about how astrology worked and to be able to analyse my own chart and those of family and friends who had an interest. The Diploma course was so comprehensive, I found every module fascinating – opening up new perspectives both personally and on the world around me. Case studies, whether about the lives of famous people or the history of nations, really brought the course alive and continually confirmed the ‘as above, so below’ insights that astrology provides. I loved the layering of additional techniques such as harmonics and although the course required a huge amount of work and dedication, I never for a moment felt that it was too demanding or difficult. The rewards of heightened understanding and inspiration were enormous.

I feel a little sad that I will no longer be studying with the Faculty, though of course also very proud to have passed the Diploma. Having gained some experience of chart readings and forecasting with ‘clients’ as part of the course, I am keen to practice consulting on a small scale in the future.

Alice Koh ~ Certificate ~ September 2024

Since I was a child, I’ve been captivated by all things mysterious—astrology, tarot, metaphysics, magic, and beyond. Several unexplained events have deepened my belief that there is something far greater than the material world around us.

In 2021, as transiting Uranus opposed my natal Mercury and transiting Saturn in Aquarius squared both, I began contemplating enrolling in FAS to study astrology in a professional and structured way. The first M1 session began on January 12, 2022, coinciding with the final hit of transiting Saturn over my natal Mercury. Since then, I have experienced pure magic. I began to uncover countless “hows” and “whys,” my life transformed, and everything changed. Astrology has allowed me to see a broader, more expansive perspective, and this gift has brought a profound sense of stability to my life on Earth—something for which I am truly grateful.

I completed my M9 at Summer School this year, and ever since, I’ve deeply missed the study sessions, the friendships, and the vibrant energy and atmosphere with FAS. Studying astrology is truly a journey of awakening, a path that not only expands my awareness but also, I believe, guides me back to my true self, reconnecting with my soul.

The exam demanded a great deal of effort, discipline, and patience. Surprisingly, I found the process to be quite enjoyable. While it was certainly challenging at times, it was also equally rewarding. The journey of preparing for and completing the exam allowed me to dive deeper into astrology, enhancing my understanding of its principles and intricacies. The certificate holds significant meaning for me, not just as a testament to my hard work but as a symbol of my commitment to this field and my ongoing personal growth.

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Lisa Stockley, Stevi Gaydon, Mark Fountain, Dragana Van de Moortel-Ilić, Frances Clynes, and Cat Cox. Each of them has generously devoted their skills, patience, talents, passion, and love to impart this ancient wisdom—astrology—which empowers individuals to understand and master their own potential.

Cristina Rosca ~ Certificate ~ September 2024

I have always been passionate about the mysteries of the universe, yet I didn’t have the opportunity to have my natal chart interpreted until December 2022. Since then, I have dedicated an increasing amount of time to studying and exploring astrology, and what had initially been a curiosity soon became a central focus of my life.

I began by studying a comprehensive astrology treatise by a well-known astrologer. The author mentioned in the preface that his intention in writing this book was to provide readers with something to ponder, a work that would provoke thought. He even rhetorically questioned whether he would succeed. I can confidently say that not only did he succeed, but his book also ignited in me a profound desire to understand the subject’s essence.

The more I delved into astrology, the clearer it became that to grasp its complexities truly, I needed further guidance. Then came the natural question: which school should I attend to receive the highest quality guidance from professional astrologers?

Seeing my dedication, my husband offered incredible support and encouraged me to pursue professional astrology courses. After conducting thorough research and considering both analytical assessment and intuition, I chose the Faculty that felt like the perfect fit. Now, after having completed part of this journey, I can assuredly confirm that it was indeed the best choice.

During my studies, I was fortunate to learn from extraordinary tutors who are passionate about astrology. After completing the first two modules online, I had the most amazing experience at the Oxford Summer School, where I attended module 3. Filled with confidence and inspired by the tutors, I returned home and applied for the Certificate Exam.

The experience of drawing the chart by hand and calculating each planet’s position felt like pure magic, an intimate connection to the cosmos unfolding before my eyes. Every step in preparing for the exam was rewarding beyond measure, even in moments of doubt.

Astrology has deepened my understanding of myself and the universe, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a distinguished and supportive academic family. Now, as I prepare for Diploma Level 1, I am reminded that this journey is not simply about reaching milestones but about embracing the beauty of continuous discovery.

Yao Huang~ Certificate ~ September 2024

With a stellium in the natal 12th house, my life has naturally embraced astrology. Yet it still holds more serious significance to me: at that time, the transiting Pluto was impending over my Ascendent, entering the orb, and my life situation also came to a period of chaos.

Luckily, I met astrology and our Faculty. My intuition told me that studying astrology would be a way to overcome the strong sense of uncertainty. And it is truth that, in learning the archetypal symbols and its psychological energy, I gained a more conscious understanding of who I am, and I saw how I could affirm myself in the cosmic version.

As Jung once wrote, ‘In all chaos there is a cosmos, in all disorder a secret order.’ As above, so below, astrology for me is a practice in establishing order in the universe of our heart. While learning to approach this work, I feel the transformative becoming of my inner cosmos.

That’s why I would highly recommend the courses of our Faculty. Whether you are interested in astrology or want to pursue it as a development path, I can definitely assure that the Faculty provides us with high-quality, comprehensive and solid knowledge of astrology. The depth of Faculty’s history and teaching experience also makes those esoteric knowledge very accessible to all of us students, bridging the gap between this ancient wisdom and our contemporary souls.

Having completed the Certificate exam is such an honourable achivement for me. Only when you are actually involved in the exam, you can see just how much dedication and effort, ability and skill the process requires. But it’s an enjoyable process, too, as you would get a sense that all the knowledge we’ve learnt comes together in this moment, then comes alive in front of us, and we get a chance to really feel it within our hands.

I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincerest gratitudes to my tutors who have accompanied me along the way. Thank you Mark Fountain, Rosemary Smith, Lisa Stockley, Frances Clynes and Deborah Morgan for your professional, devoted, patient and supportive teaching that has encouraged me to continue on my astrological journey.

Nikoleta Kalaitzaki ~ Certificate ~ September 2024

Having started studying at the Faculty in 2022, was an attempt just out of curiosity. I was eager to find out what the zodiac sign meant. I assumed it was that. Nevertheless, it turned out it wasn’t. Subsequently, I have been introduced to the planets, the houses, the aspects, and numerous other things that are far beyond simply asking, “What is your sign?” It is the recognition of a different function of the world that I used to know until now. All that became difficult, not from the point of view you may think. It became a test within my soul and my character. With contemporary psychological astrology, in my perspective, you should first hug yourself. Then, patiently start syncing with the time of cycles around you. Not only accepting the knowledge you’ve been given, but also submitting to the unknown because you’ll come across both. As far as I’m concerned, Faculty is more than a well-structured educational institution.

It is the combined efforts of exceptional people that have been able to give you their very best. I feel blessed and happy to have begun studying at the Faculty. Gratitude is the memory of the soul. That’s how I feel. Obtaining the Faculty Certificate is a comprehensive experience that I have benefited from, by utilizing just what they have taught me, not more, not less. Succeeding made me feel respectful, and, concurrently, it developed in me a sense of responsibility towards astrology.

Diana Eccelston ~ Certificate ~ September 2024

An astrology book caught my eye on a bookshelf in a house I was living in on the Island of Madeira nearly 50 years ago. It was the spark that ignited a passion and interest still burning bright. Following this, I dived down all sorts of astrological rabbit holes learning lots of wonderful things but unable to do much with all the information.

I knew I needed to start at the beginning and get a foundation to work from. I then discovered the Faculty of Astrological Studies and completed the certificate course by distance learning which was by post back in 1984. With one small daughter and having my second along the way, I never got round to taking the exam.

I did charts of friends and family, all by hand back then, and even ran a group for a year working out and exploring charts. I bought and inherited many astrology books from various people which now fill a bookcase of their own. After retiring from a long career in the NHS I decided I would like to finish what I started and take the certificate exam. So, with Sun, Moon, Mars conjunct my MC in Taurus in the 9th, my get there in the end determination has done me proud!

It meant starting the course all over again to get the credits I will need if I manage to reach diploma level. Distance learning still suits me best and after 18 months with a wonderful tutor, we felt I was ready. All the information is easy to navigate with everything on the Faculty website, the coursework is at your fingertips. Redoing the course was an absolute joy, I learned so much more, there were many changes since the 1980’s including Chiron, a new one for me which also changed the chart I knew quite dramatically. I also did many of the seminars along the way plus the 3 month Interpretation practice module which helped a lot before taking the exam.

I plan to enrol on Module 4 sometime in the new year and venture into the world of transits and progressions, new for me and I will hopefully continue to gain the Diploma one day.

Simona Schrammel ~ Certificate ~ September 2024

Since childhood I have been fascinated by synchronistic events such as precognitive dreams and I tried to understand their meaning and our connection to the Universe. My lifelong passion to understand the mysteries of the human mind and the unconscious led me to study psychology and Eastern philosophy and, through another synchronistic event I was prompted to study astrology when transiting Uranus opposed my natal Uranus. After a few months, I discovered the Psychological Astrology and Liz Green’s writings, and I felt that I was on my path. Since then, I studied with the Centre for Psychological Astrology and more recently, looking for a programme to deepen my understanding of this vast and complex subject, I came across the Faculty of Astrological Studies (FAS).

My journey with FAS started in 2022 with the Foundation Course and it has been very rewarding. I appreciate the FAS’ content of the courses, the professionalism of its tutors and the supportive and stimulating environment where I can develop my knowledge and skills along with fellow students. The Certificate exam is not only a good test to put in practice what we learned in the first three modules but it also reveals our commitment to set and to achieve a solid foundation and a high standard in the interpretation of an astrological chart. I have reached Module 6 and I would like to express my gratitude towards the FAS and its staff for providing us with top education in Astrology, making this journey not just possible but very enjoyable and fulfilling.

Phoebe Cai ~ Certificate ~ September 2024

I first learned about astrology through a fortune-telling TV program when I was young. For me, it was like love at first sight. I remember eagerly waiting in front of the TV every night before the show started, and always taking notes while watching. My parents used to joke “If you are willing to study in school like the way that you study astrology, we probably could save a fortune on your tutoring fees!”

My learning experience truly began later in life after reading astrology books. However, as I continued to self-study, I developed a strong desire to pursue a certification through a professional astrology school. After researching several schools, I chose the Faculty of Astrological Studies (FAS) because of its long-standing reputation and experienced instructors. Living in the United States, the online class format made it easier for me to both directly-engage with the instructors and to tackle the course material on my own schedule. My classmates and I would share our life stories during classes and connected through our shared passion for astrology. The learning process was effective and fun at the same time!

The Certificate Exam is challenging and requires a deep understanding of the material covered in the first three modules. I spent a significant amount of time preparing for it, attempting to complete a certain portion of the exam each day. The process was not easy, but I am so happy that I persevered and eventually passed the exam. This test helped me review and gain a comprehensive understanding of what I had learned in FAS. It also significantly improved my skills in natal chart reading.

Through my life experiences, I’ve come to see astrology as a profound tool for self-discovery, self-growth and self-improvement. It offers a deeper understanding of family dynamics and behavioral patterns. It helps me better understand myself and my relationship with others. More importantly, it has healed me and helped me find inner peace and happiness. I hope to share its transformative powers with others who are unfamiliar with it, especially those from different cultures or countries, so that astrology may help them as well. I am currently studying Module 8, and my next goals are to pass both the Intermediate Exam and Advanced Exam in the near future.

Nina Delaney~ Certificate ~ September 2024

Accomplishing the Certificate exam at FAS gave me a great sense of achievement. Despite periodical challenges and frustration the preparation for the exam case study was a time of fascinating observations and intriguing discoveries, including self-discoveries. It brought me a step closer to working effectively with the Natal Chart Interpretation and overwhelming astrological data. Most importantly, passing the exam re-confirmed my desire and readiness to continue on the less travelled road of astrological mastery.

Karla Miranović ~ Certificate ~ September 2023

My interest in astrology began in my high school years, once I realized the complexity and depth of this fascinating subject, coming to understand that there is so much more to astrology than the Sun signs that the general public tends to identify astrology with.

In those early years, I developed my knowledge through reading astrology books, magazines, as well as researching the available online sources, blogs and astrology-related YouTube channels.

Throughout my formal education, in school and university, my approach to learning has always been very serious and thorough. Some years after my interest in astrology started developing, I realized that I would like to apply that same approach to my astrological studies as well, which is why I started researching options for getting a formal astrological education.

The Faculty of Astrological Studies (FAS) immediately stood out to me, for several important reasons. Its longstanding tradition, good reputation, excellent tutors, and a clear, well-structured curriculum, all led me to choose FAS.

What I especially appreciate about the Faculty is the possibility to study its programme from anywhere in the world. As someone who comes from Montenegro, I benefit from the possibility to study online. I have had very positive experiences with both “distance learning via e-mail” as well as live “online classes” that the faculty offers. While the first significantly contributed to the development of my skills in written astrological analysis, the second brought me the exciting opportunity of dynamic interaction with tutors and fellow students, which in itself constitutes an important learning experience, in addition to the studied material.

I am beyond happy to have completed my Certificate Exam. It represents a substantial piece of work and a very important milestone in my astrological journey.

Completing the exam requires effort and disciple, but also allows a special opportunity to engage with astrology creatively and, for many of us, produce our first in-depth natal chart report.

Being among the younger recipients of the Certificate adds another layer of significance to this achievement. In many ways, the development of my astrological knowledge coincides with the period of active personal development and growth, making this process all the more special.

Having had a very positive experience of the Faculty thus far, it is my goal to continue with my studies. I am currently studying the seventh of the nine modules and look forward to all that is to come, meeting new tutors and fellow students, deepening my knowledge of this wonderful subject and dedicatedly working towards the Faculty Diploma.

Wendy Blume ~ D.F.Astrol.S. ~ September 2023

Astrology has been a constant in my life since the 1980s when I first eyed off my chart, courtesy of my dad’s astrologer secretary. I poured over it, trying to better understand my teenage self. I started into formal study in 2006, but two kids and a career in publishing waylaid me until the Faculty’s course leapt out as a viable and thorough distance learning option that I could fit between work and family.

I’ve loved immersing myself in this course. Over six years I’ve had many eureka moments along with more despairing times when I felt overwhelmed by all that I didn’t know. But the structured course and tutor feedback kept me going. I realise now that you never learn it all and that’s part of the joy – each year of working in astrology builds more personal and professional wisdom.

The course is rigorous and the final exam is a huge amount of work that I initially baulked at. But I decided to commit and I’m so glad I did – the satisfaction of having succeeded is immense. The diploma training has equipped me to be an effective, professional astrologer, which I now do full-time – consulting with clients on the Northern Beaches of Sydney, Australia.

Alison Boulton ~ D.F.Astrol.S. ~ September 2023

I’ve been immersed in Astrology since I was about 8 years old when my mother said that I was a typical Pisces. There were a couple of astrology books on our bookshelf which I instantly read – and then and reread, adding books from the local library when I got a bit older.

In my early twenties I encountered Liz Greene at a Religion versus Astrology ‘debate’ in London and booked myself in for a reading. It was through Dr Greene that I discovered the FAS and signed up for the Foundation course. In those days we had to sit the exams in a hall and on the first sitting I failed the calculation section! That year it was a New Zealand birth place which elicited a generalised groan when everyone turned over their paper. Fortunately I got through the following year and passed the Certificate course in 1987.

At that point, I left London and decided not to continue by correspondence. I kept reading, however, devouring Liz Greene’s books and attending the occasional CPA seminar in Regents Park.

Fast forward many years and Covid caused the FAS classes to go online – just as Uranus was transiting my tenth house Moon. Time to reconnect with the Faculty. I excitedly picked up where I left off and in 2022 took the intermediate exam finally completing the Diploma in 2023, three Jupiter cycles after I passed the Certificate. Needless to say, I’m absolutely delighted and I’m busy building my consultancy practice.

Mark Brafield ~ Certificate ~ September 2023

As a child I always had a curiosity about astrology, which, like many of my generation, was only confirmed when I came across a copy of Linda Goodman’s Sun Signs. I became fascinated by the uncanny accuracy of her character studies when I read my friends’ Sun signs, expressed in her unique and exuberant style. Her book still earns its place on my shelf beside my ephemeris and a battery of books that take themselves far more seriously.

I thought no more deeply about it, although it meant that I was open-minded when a bohemian girlfriend of mine bought me a professional reading of my horoscope for my thirtieth birthday. I went along with no more than a relaxed curiosity, but for the next two hours I was literally dumbfounded when the astrologer told me things about me that no-one else knew, then things about me that I did not know myself, and finally things about me that no-one else could possibly have known.

That experience stayed with me, although I had no plans to take it further until a few years ago when I was able to leave a demanding full-time career as a solicitor to work part-time. Amongst other things this enabled me to devote more time to my second career as a professional musician, but having always enjoyed studying I was also looking for, perhaps, a Masters or some other qualification to expand my horizons.

A casual internet search one day threw up a number of astrological courses and bells started to ring. The idea of studying astrology gained traction in my mind, although there were a number of considerations I needed to address. One of these was whether astrology was incompatible with a religious faith which has always been important to me. I was reflecting on this one day as I happened to be walking around York Minster and found myself standing in front of an astrological clock. There was my answer; for me, the two are entirely compatible aspects of a unified cosmology and I took that as a clear sign that the path was now open to me. Astrology also drew together other strands which have been woven through my life; a degree in mediaeval literature, an immersion in Jungian thought; and that love of music.

Having looked at a number of courses I chose the Faculty because of its academic rigour, and this was certainly reflected in the Certificate Exam. It is an intensive test which is not to be taken lightly. I took the examination directly after completing the third module, and on balance I am glad I did so. With the benefit of reflection I can see that if I had taken the examination later in my studies I would probably have produced a more mature and nuanced reading of the chart, but the exam forced me to thoroughly revise everything we had learned in the first three modules, and that in itself was an excellent platform from which to continue. I particularly appreciated drawing the chart by hand. Some might consider this an outdated skill but I felt myself powerfully drawn into the world of the symbols and the magical ritual of the chart. I was, naturally, delighted to pass, and the feedback of the examiners was, as always with the Faculty, encouraging and supportive whilst offering rich food for thought as I continue and deepen in my understanding of this entrancing world.

Sue Brayne ~ D.F.Astrol.S ~ September 2023

My journey into studying astrology and the occult started in the mid-eighties after I was involved in a life-threatening accident. I am still astonished that I didn’t die. Obviously, the Universe had other plans for me because the experience catapulted me onto a profound healing journey, which started with going to Taos, New Mexico, for a week-long Warrior’s Wisdom workshop with Stuart Wilde (at the time, Stuart was one of the world leaders of the New Age Movement). The workshop was designed specifically to confront fear, involving toe-curling tests such as firewalking, high ropes challenges, and a vision quest. It was, quite simply, life changing.

I returned to London and signed up to study mediumship and psychic development at the College of Psychic Studies. Soon, I was giving tarot card readings, first to friends, and then to paying clients. This became my main source of income, which involved working at psychic fayres, private parties, and society balls at places like the Dorchester Hotel. I also became the resident tarot reader at a New Age shop in Chiswick. Around this time, I was commissioned by mainstream publishers to write non-fiction books on women’s magic. My research deepened my growing interest in astrology, and I included information in the books about how to use astrological signs and symbols in ritual work. In short, I was immersed in the world of divination and magical practices, and I subsidised a six-month trip round Mexico and Guatemala by giving tarot card readings to fellow travellers.

When I returned from my travels, I moved to Dorset to work at a spiritual centre, where I was fortunate to meet and learn from some of the world’s leading spiritual teachers. They helped me to strengthen my healing journey, and I met and spent time with several highly respected astrologers who inspired me to learn more about myself through astrology.

Life changed again when I decided to do an MA in the Rhetoric and Rituals of Death. This meant embracing the rigours of academic study and becoming neuropsychiatrist Dr Peter Fenwick’s honorary researcher into one of the first studies of end-of-life experiences. In turn the study encouraged me to train and work as a psychotherapist, specialising in trauma, death, and grief. Even though I parked my fascination for the occult during this time, it never left me. My bookshelf swelled with astrological and magical texts, and I would often attend astrology workshops with Aquarius Severn in Cheltenham.

Life continued to flow and ebb until Covid hit. And, I had a pressing realisation that I wanted to consolidate all my knowledge about astrology. I found the Faculty of Astrological Studies online, and, as they say, the rest is history. At first, I thought attaining the certificate was enough. But I now firmly believe that when astrology calls you, there’s no escape. So, four years later of intense learning, and at the grand age of seventy, I am the proud holder of the Diploma with a busy practise specialising in esoteric astrology. Not just that, I have the good fortune to interview master astrologers for the Astrological Journal on a regular basis. When I reflect on this, I realise that training as an astrologer in my latter years has pulled all the threads of my life together, which, for me, is truly magical.

I would say to anyone wanting to learn astrology, ‘Go For It!’ It’s damned hard work, and the learning curve is endless, but astrology takes you deep into yourself and will open doors you never knew existed. The Faculty of Astrology Studies is a great place to start this journey because it will give you an excellent grounding. The exams are tough – there’s no doubt about that – but it’s a great feeling of accomplishment when you pass, and the tutors couldn’t be more caring or supportive.

Rositsa Ivanova ~ Certificate ~ March 2023

My first encounter with an astrologer was during a Uranus transit over my 12th house Cancer Sun and, as happens with most people visiting an astrologer for the first time, it was a jaw-dropping experience. There wasn’t any particular reason for that visit. As a person who’s been constantly looking for symbols and omens, I wanted a validation that I was on the right path and had processed all significant events in my life in the most meaningful way. But what I heard from that astrologer was just unbelievable. How could she have possibly known that I had this inborn sense of rhythm and dancing was my way of both self-expression and self-transcendence.

Of course, this was the least important thing I heard at that session, but I was blown away how she nailed such a tiny personal detail. She was able to articulate my most inward experiences, motives, and aspirations and to put my life story in an archetypal perspective. So, there I was, 2 years later at my Uranus opposition, becoming a student of that astrologer, who somebody had called the Bulgarian Liz Greene.

A few years later, I studied psychology at that time, and I can’t remember how exactly, but I came across the FAS webpage and saw an announcement about a Summer School in Oxford. I felt such a strong urge to attend that event, without having the slightest idea where I was going, and I took part in it 3 years in a row before I enrolled as a Faculty’s student. I can hardly find the right words to describe my first experience of participating in the Summer School in Oxford – the unique blending of the most amazing tutors, presenting mind-boggling topics in front of most engaged audience at such loaded with knowledge and ancient wisdom venue – everything was so fascinating and unreal that when I heard Carole Taylor reciting at the Gala dinner my most favorite poem, Wild geese by Mary Oliver, I knew I belonged to that space. Later, already a Faculty’s student in online classes, I was privileged to be taught by other wonderful Faculty tutors like Rosemary and Toby at Foundation course, and Deborah, Frances and Cat at Diploma I course. All of them very skilfully and patiently have guided us in our attempts to articulate chart peculiarities in an archetypal language and have helped us understand Faculty’s strict rules on chart interpretation in terms of using definite and overly specific expressions. I’ve now completed six modules and I plan to continue my education and enroll on the Advanced Exam one day. I know it won’t be easy, as I already know how difficult the Certificate Exam was, but there is so much more to learn along the way that it’s worth it.

Alison Finlay, D.F.Astrol.S. ~ March 2023

My astrology journey first began because of my Mum who started going to local astrology classes in Glasgow where I still live. This was back in the day when charts were still being drawn up by hand. I was intrigued by what she was studying and wanted to know more. Working full time did not allow me to go to a daytime class. However, I approached her astrology teacher to ask if she would run an evening class if I could find some interested people to make up the numbers. Somehow that never got off the ground. Although, I did manage to have my chart read and that inspired me to learn more.

Looking around for alternatives, I discovered that my home town of Glasgow ran and still runs an enthusiastic astrology group. I went to all the meetings, not understanding much, but just hoped that by being amongst others interested in astrology that I’d somehow soak it all up.

Then, in 2005, I managed to persuade the group secretary to start classes and that really kickstarted my more formal astrological studies. All this happened, by no coincidence, at a critical point in my life and understanding more about my own chart was hugely empowering. I studied with other reputable teachers, went to workshops by astrologers visiting Glasgow, subscribed to the TMA as well as gradually building my own library of books.

Some ten years later, approaching a significant birthday, I decided to study with the Faculty of Astrological Studies. I knew of the Faculty, by reputation, from my teachers here locally. By this time, I was self-employed and the distance learning route seemed the best solution for me.

I was exited to attend Summer School in Oxford in 2016 where meeting the tutors and students alike was fabulous in the most incredible of settings. I continued the distance learning modules through to Module 6 and had decided thereafter I’d travel to London for the next three modules. Just at that time, the pandemic hit and I was fortunate to be able to do the online classes with other students from around the world. Being in a group with others who were passionate about learning astrology was so captivating.

I’ve learnt so much from my studies with the Faculty. I feel really fortunate to have been able to learn in this way, as I feel it has helped me to honour the craft of the astrologer and to appreciate the importance of continuing the tradition today. The professionalism and dedication of the tutors is empowering and has enabled me to feel more confident about the rigorous training I have received. The discipline of writing the module exercises and exams, culminating with the Diploma in June 2023, has honed my skills and has contributed to me thinking about the language and words I use. As a result, I am more self aware of my role as a practising astrologer, particularly as I enjoy one-to-one client work.

Phillipe Sibaud, D.F.Astrol.S. ~ March 2023

Me, an astrologer? I never thought I would utter these words one day. But as has become abundantly clear with the passing years, life works in mysterious ways. I suppose I had always been marginally interested in the subject but never more than as a quirky interest. I remember buying a book on Pisces symbolism (my Sun sign) one full Saturn return ago – not a very good one either. And Liz Greene… yes, some of Liz Greene’s books had landed on my lap all these years ago and for the first time I had felt that I had stumbled on ‘intelligent’ astrology, for want of a better word.

But it took me another twenty years to cross paths with it again. This time (the year was 2012) it was by reading Cosmos and Psyche by Richard Tarnas. I was blown away, absolutely taken over and for the first time I seriously considered studying the subject. But really, study astrology? Could I do it? Astrologers still conveyed an aura of mystery, an ability to magically attune to the cosmos. They were a tribe of spiritual wanderers, the depositors of an art inherited from the long forgotten past of humanity – an art, besides, that in no way could be practiced by everyone, let alone by me!

I remember sitting in the cafe near my home, one fine Saturday morning. On the walls were hanging 40 or 50 frames of different subjects, totally unrelated with one another. There I was, sipping my coffee, absent-mindedly pondering whether I should study astrology, when, raising my gaze, my eyes fell on a frame I had never noticed before. It was a black drawing of the universe, with a few stars scattered across the canvas, and in bold characters were written the words : “The future is in the stars”. It took me a few minutes to realise. There was my answer! My future was in the stars!

The rest, as they say, is history. I immediately registered with the Faculty. Why the Faculty? I do not know the answer to that. I think I liked the website, the air of professionalism, the pedigree of the patrons, the history….who knows. All I can say is that it was the perfect place for me. Starting as I was with very little knowledge, I really appreciated its thorough and methodical approach. The building blocks were patiently put in place so that we might move forward with confidence. Yes it is hard work but it is also incredibly rewarding. I had the good fortune of attending the London classes and over the years this meant a deepening connection with my fellow students, from whom I learnt so much. And the tutors of course, all first class, all passionate, all dedicated. I cannot recommend it enough.

So blessings for everyone at the Faculty for creating this gem of a place, a spiritually uplifting container, a sacred grove where members of the tribe may gather and swap stories under the stars!

Carrie Bramen ~ Certificate ~ March 2023

Like many in my generation, I first discovered astrology through Linda Goodman’s Sun Signs when I was a young teen. The well-thumbed book sat on a shelf in my mother’s extensive paperback library alongside other bestsellers of the era such as Jonathan Livingston Seagull and Fear of Flying. In the gray world of adolescent angst, Goodman’s book gave me a language to understand myself and to navigate the perplexing social world around me. I even read her cringe-worthy poetry with the same care that others devote to Shakespeare’s sonnets. When I look back at it now, her book gave me an early narrative of self-acceptance: that it was perfectly fine to be bossy, impatient, and opinionated. Perhaps this is why when I later discovered that we shared a birthday, I wasn’t at all surprised.

I had been wanting to develop my astrological skills for many years, so I decided to enroll in the Faculty of Astrological Studies online courses during the height of the pandemic when we were isolated in our homes. The weekly live online classes with students from all over the world provided a much-needed sense of community, and it also made learning more dynamic than listening to pre-recorded lectures. The Faculty also offers a well-structured course of study through a series of carefully designed modules. As a cultural historian currently researching the history of nineteenth-century astrology, I wanted to be able to calculate birth charts by hand using an ephemeris. This is one of the many important skills I learned during the Foundation course.

I am about to begin Module 4 towards the Diploma Level One, and I look forward to learning about transits, progressions, and other tools of timing from the Faculty’s engaging and knowledgeable teachers.

Rendy Fudoh ~ Certificate ~ March 2023

At first, I learned astrology through some literature and tutorials before learning at the Faculty. Even though it was ‘back to basics’ at the beginning, the course material gave me a deeper insight into natal astrology – a great way to read and refresh the basics, always finding some new insights along with our own experience in reading astrology charts.

By learning astrology with the Faculty, I also learned a different approach to astrology compared to my own study. The structured curriculum also helped me to understand which part we need to know first in the natal chart, for making a learning process more approachable to astrology students, which also inspires me when I’m teaching astrology in the future.

In the near future, while I’m still enrolled in the Faculty, I’ll also learn astrology with several approaches and branches, including mundane, election, horary, and any other astrology field that interests me. It’s a lifetime learning after all.

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