Succeed by letting go of your “dream career” – James’ story
“it kind of stopped my career… it’s like if you wanted to be a footballer but suddenly breaking your leg and not able to fulfil your dreams anymore…” For OU student James, being a helicopter pilot was the dream job that he’d always been “dead set” on. But then, due to medical reasons, his flying […]
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Find your goal and inspiration in OU study, like Stuart
OU student and disabled veteran Stuart describes his OU journey as one of ‘resilience, struggle and growth’. After being medically discharged from the military following 23 years of service, he felt lost and unsure what to do next. Studying towards a BA (Honours) History degree gave him focus and motivation to move forwards in a […]
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Tourette’s and your career
Moving from university to employment as a neurodivergent student can feel daunting, especially for those with conditions like Tourette’s Syndrome (TS). TS is a neurodevelopmental condition that involves involuntary tics, which can affect daily life and influence career choices. Although it can present challenges, many people with TS — including musicians Lewis Capaldi, Billie Eilish […]
OCD and your career
Career decision making can bring the excitement of new opportunities and experiences, but the uncertainty involved can be challenging, often triggering anxiety and flare ups, for those with OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder). OCD involves a cycle of intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental acts (compulsions), which can be distressing and interfere with daily […]
ADHD and your career
Career planning and job hunting can be challenging, especially for individuals with ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder). If you’re currently studying, you may already be developing strategies to manage such challenges. It’s always useful to start with building your confidence and realising you have a lot to offer. Studying with ADHD includes techniques that can also be […]
Gain professional connections and real-world experience like OU student intern Rebecca
“Did you think that internships were just about observation? Mine at The Open University is teaching me what it means to contribute, not just watch.” Rebecca, OU Legal Research Intern Get impactful work experience to help kick‑start or progress your career and make a meaningful contribution. Law graduate Rebecca is now looking for professional opportunities […]
Dyspraxia and your career
What is dyspraxia? Dyspraxia (also called developmental coordination disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition which affects movement, coordination and motor skills. People often associate it with poor spatial awareness, but it can also lead to difficulties in processing, judgement, and memory. The NHS estimate that around 3-5% of adults in the UK have dyspraxia. Everyone’s experience […]
Achieve your goals in small steps, not giant leaps – like NASA
The inspiring Artemis II mission tested the Orion spacecraft for future lunar landings. It shows ambitious goals are achieved by breaking the task into achievable, realistic steps. Apply this NASA principle to your goals. Review your goals in three minutes and generate your instant personalised ‘Actions towards goals’ checklist. Then work out your next steps […]
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How OU study opened doors for Farhana
MA History student Farhana Qayoom Shaikh recently spoke to the Arts and Humanities student newsletter about the value of OU study to her employers and her career. “One thing I wish I had known before starting an MA in History with the Open University is how many professional opportunities it would open for me.” To […]
Imposter syndrome – why it happens and what you can do about it
Imposter syndrome is the internal experience of believing that you aren’t as competent as others perceive you to be. It often comes with the fear of being exposed as a fraud, and a tendency to downplay personal achievements. It can affect anybody, regardless of background, skill level, or degree of expertise. If that sounds like […]
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Shine through in applications: top tips from a CEO
In this episode of the OU’s In Office Hours podcast, discover top tips from Jack Harrington, CEO of the British Academy of Management and OU MBA graduate, to help you work towards your goals and make yourself and your application stand out from the crowd. “I used a lot of the OU’s careers advice tools, […]
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Get hired, get inspired with GenAI
Generative Artificial Intelligence (Generative AI or GenAI) use amongst students is approaching near universal levels but do you really know how to make the most of these tools to help you with your career? Find out how to use Generative AI for your career and discover how it can help, from self-reflection and generating ideas, […]
Build a career you can trust
Learn how to resolve real-world challenges and decisions with our recorded Business ethics with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland (ICAS) webinar. You’ll explore how your choices shape your career. The decisions you make, especially under pressure, affect how others see you and what opportunities come next. ICAS is a global professional body that […]
Careers research tips for students with dyslexia
“When I read long job descriptions, I lose the thread. But when I talk things through, everything clicks.” Undergraduate OU student with dyslexia. Exploring career ideas can be a challenge when you’re dyslexic, especially if traditional text-heavy resources don’t play to your strengths. Start with your strengths Build your future with career confidence by identifying […]
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Career lessons from the Stoics 3: control what you can, understand what you can’t
Job searching can feel unpredictable, slow, and driven by forces far beyond your influence – labour markets shift due to wider economic factors and related employer needs. So, what can you do? Stoic philosopher Epictetus has the answer: “Make the best use of what is in your power”. It’s all about knowing what’s up to […]
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