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Category: Student stories

A young woman wearing walking boots and a hat in front of mountains.

‘Carve your own path’, says graduate who started OU degree aged 15

Eileanoir from Ireland began studying with The Open University (OU) at just 15 years old. What started as a way to challenge herself whilst still at school, became her route into a role with a multinational start-up and a life of exploring the world. “I loved languages at school,” said Eileanoir, “but I didn’t feel […]

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Photo of a young woman with long dark hair, standing in front of a sea view.

‘Take that leap of faith and build your own future’

After years of torment from bullies, Shayda was forced to leave school before finishing her A Levels. With dreams of becoming a barrister, The Open University’s (OU) open entry policy allowed her to reclaim her education and take control of her future. Now, at 23, Shayda from Folkestone has just finished her first year of […]

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Princess on the set of the OU's game show Smartest in their Space, looking and smiling at the camera.

‘OU study is making a difference to my business already’

Surrounded by a family of academics, freelance artist and Open University (OU) student Princess, 26, was determined to revisit higher education having struggled to find the right study path after she left school. As the first year of her Design and Innovation degree draws to a close, Princess shares how OU study has “broadened her […]

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Chido on filming set for OU gameshow, facing the camera and smiling.

‘The OU has given me the opportunity to pursue my dream career’

At the age of 17, Chido left school to start a family, putting her academic goals to one side. After years of feeling she’d missed out on the degree she yearned for, Chido is chasing her ambition of becoming a professor. Now 39, busy mum and mental health support worker, Chido, shares how she manages […]

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Joe at his graduation ceremony with the backdrop of sky, throwing his mortarboard in the air.

‘I chose OU study when I left school, and it’s fast-tracked my career’

On A level results day Psychology graduate Joe, 22, had a lightbulb moment that changed the course of his future. When he finally listened to his heart, Joe carved his own path towards the career he yearned for and has never looked back. Now an assistant psychologist in a mental health hospital, Joe shares how […]

Read more about ‘I chose OU study when I left school, and it’s fast-tracked my career’

Gary dressed in a suit and tie, smiling at the camera.

‘I can now pursue a career, not just a job’ says OU Law graduate, Gary

As a young carer with considerable responsibilities at home, Gary’s secondary education was cut short. Entering the job market at the age of 14, Gary never imagined a career in Law was within reach, until he discovered The Open University. Unlocked potential Gary always assumed that leaving school before he had the chance to gain […]

Read more about ‘I can now pursue a career, not just a job’ says OU Law graduate, Gary

Head and shoulders shot of Rebekah facing the camera and smiling.

‘My OU scholarship makes me feel seen, valued and worth investing in’

When Rebekah, 37, gave up her place at a campus university to care for her disabled son, she feared her academic aspirations would never be fulfilled. Now on course to achieve a Law degree, Rebekah shares how receiving The Open University Carers’ Scholarship allows her to study flexibly around the needs of her family, whilst […]

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Andy dressed in warm clothing with a backdrop of Antarctica

‘OU study unlocked an amazing opportunity to work in Antarctica’

When Natural Sciences student Andy, 54, was made redundant, he was unsure what to expect from the next chapter of his life. With a thirst for new experiences and an open mind about his next career move, Andy embarked on an academic journey with The Open University, never imagining it would take him on the […]

Read more about ‘OU study unlocked an amazing opportunity to work in Antarctica’

Head shot of Althea

‘My OU scholarship allows me to pursue my dreams, without the fear of debt’

After a tough start in life, Althea 20, moved into foster care. The stability of her new home allowed Althea to focus on her education, achieve impressive A level grades and bag a university place. Plans changed on finding out she was expecting her first child – Althea needed to devote her time and resources […]

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Gina sitting on the sofa, head and shoulders shot, smiling to the camera.

“OU study was the start of an amazing journey,” says celebrated dementia activist Gina

Since completing her BA (Hons) Health and Social care degree at The Open University, Gina Awad’s steadfast commitment to dementia awareness has earned her scores of awards and plaudits, including the British Empire Medal for voluntary service in the Queen’s 2018 Birthday Honours List. In Dementia Action week, Gina’s book United: caring for our loved […]

Read more about “OU study was the start of an amazing journey,” says celebrated dementia activist Gina

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