The Open University

Don’t climb that mountain alone

3 March 2025

We understand it can feel like climbing a very steep mountain when you’re studying and planning your career while experiencing mental health difficulties. Help is on hand. It’s University Mental Health Day this month so we’re highlighting resources that can help you through the challenges. Finding work and support in the workplace Finding and keeping […]

Portfolio careers and how you can have one

21 February 2025

A ‘portfolio career’ or “squiggly career” (Tupper, 2024) is a version of self- or partial employment where you have several part-time jobs at the same time, rather than taking the traditional career ‘path’ of one full-time job. It offers a more flexible way of working, tailored to your unique set of skills, needs and priorities […]

Social media superpowers and your job search

13 September 2024

Social media can supercharge your professional presence. Your online presence is the way that you present yourself and one of the ways you’ll be vetted in the recruitment process. Here are some tips to maximise your social media superpowers and secure your future job. 1. Build your social media skills There are plenty of events […]

Successful internships: top tips from OU interns

2 August 2024

Weighing up the pros and cons of applying for an internship? Wondering if you would be able to juggle another commitment with your busy life? To help you decide, read our guide The benefits of doing an internship and the following top tips from students and graduates who recently completed an internship through the OU. […]

Be kind to yourself in your career planning

7 June 2024

We all know it can be hard to make good decisions when we’re feeling under pressure, are unfocused and time limited. So slow down, take a breath and pace yourself through our top tips encouraging you to be kind to yourself in career planning… 1. Give yourself the gift of time – you’re worth it […]

An informal guide to pursuing your passion

23 May 2024

OU study opens an incredible number of possibilities and opportunities. But while students are busy balancing their studies with their home and work lives, they often find themselves carefully skirting around the big question: What is my passion? We can help you dare to dream and build your confidence to realise your passion. Reflection Take […]

Georgina Hawkins, Employer Engagement Manager

Age is no barrier for employers

17 May 2023

Do you feel you’ve left it too late to change career? Or perhaps you worry your youth and lack of experience might be an issue. I’m Georgina, an Employer Engagement Manager here at the OU, and students highlight ‘age’ at nearly every employer event we host, especially those who feel too old to change career […]

Juliet Andrew Orji, Client Services Manager for Employers for Carers

Employers want carers – and here’s why

22 March 2022

Are you an OU student and combining your studies with being a carer? If so, perhaps you’re starting to discover career options that fit in with your caring responsibilities, or exploring pathways to specific career goals. You may even be ready to start applying for opportunities. Start discovering where OU study might take you with […]

Supercharge your CV with volunteering experience

10 September 2020

Do you have the skills you need to succeed? Upskilling your portfolio with volunteering could be just what you’re looking for. Volunteering is a great way to gain additional skills that graduate employers want, give your confidence a boost, and have fun whilst making a difference. Volunteering can also help you network and build up […]