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Category: Student stories

Alasdair wearing a hard hat and protective clothing in by the sea with a large ship in the background.

‘Changing career has been like a breath of fresh air – OU study made it possible’

Engineering graduate Alastair, 41, was in a stable career, but yearned to shake things up professionally. Alastair shares how Open University study opened the door to an exciting new career with amazing prospects for the future. Making it happen After several years in the police force, Alastair found himself struggling to find fulfilment in his […]

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Kay by the coast, smiling at the camera.

‘I became an engineer while juggling a young family – the OU made it possible’

When Engineering graduate Kay, 41, set off for a weekend of live music at Bluedot festival, she never imagined the experience would inspire her to pursue an exciting new career. Now working as an Aerodynamics Engineer, Kay looks back on how she juggled Open University (OU) study with a young family and grabbed the opportunity […]

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Anushree wearing an orange space suit, dark glasses and headset carrying out research. There is a colleague wearing a similar suit and glasses in the background.

‘I became a doctor and landed my dream job on a NASA mission, thanks to the OU’

As a teenager in India, Anushree became fascinated with space exploration but never imagined it was a career within her reach. On International Women’s Day, we’re thrilled to share Anushree’s inspiring story. Now a Postdoctoral Fellow helping NASA investigate whether there’s ever been life on Mars, Anushree reflects on her incredible journey and why it’s […]

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Andrew smiling, dressed in a black suit and tie, standing in front of Monty Bojangles branding, holding an award.

‘With the OU you can grow academically and professionally at the same time’

Open University Psychology graduate Andrew Newlands is founder and Managing Director of Monty Bojangles, the award-winning chocolatiers taking the confectionery market by storm. Having already scooped the prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise, Andrew’s brand of fantastical fun has captured the imagination of chocolate lovers across the UK and beyond. Andrew reflects on how OU study […]

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James sat in a bar, smiling at the camera

‘My career progression has been amazing, thanks to my OU degree’

After deciding to hang up his boots and leave professional football behind James, 28, found himself chasing new goals off the pitch. Now Financial Controller for a hospitality chain, James shares how Open University (OU) study fast-tracked his career and helped him develop the skills he needed to get-ahead in business. At 21 years old […]

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Martyn standing outside an ornate building wearing an OU hoodie.

‘I’m starting a new career in Japan, thanks to the OU’

Martyn, 34, was at a crossroads in his life when a spontaneous trip to Japan sparked a passion for language and culture that would transform his future. Martyn shares how Open University (OU) study opened the door to an exciting career and a new chapter overseas. A life-changing trip Martyn was working in retail, trying […]

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James looking to the camera, smiling with leafy background

‘The Disabled Veterans’ Scholarships Fund takes us to places we never thought possible’

With the amazing news that the Big Give Christmas Challenge 2023 helped to raise £52,403 to enable disabled veterans access life-changing education, James Champion shares what it means to him to receive the Open University’s Disabled Veterans’ Scholarship. Law student James, 50, made his childhood dream of becoming a helicopter pilot a reality while serving […]

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Young woman standing in front of a building

‘The biggest benefit of the OU is that I can earn whilst I learn’

Kianna, 22 from Milton Keynes, chose to study with The Open University (OU) so that she could gain a degree in a more affordable way. Because of the flexibility of the OU, Kianna could continue her part-time role and remain living at home with her parents, which meant she no longer needed multiple loans to […]

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Charlie holding a microphone

‘I’m excited for the next chapter’ says cancer survivor and proud graduate Charlie

Having played competitive sports for many years Charlie, 58, faced the biggest battle of his life to overcome a critical illness during his Open University (OU) Sport, Fitness and Coaching degree. Charlie describes how digging deep and making the most of the OU’s support, gave him the strength to cross the finish line. He’s now […]

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Award success for entrepreneurial student

Award success for entrepreneurial student

Open University in Scotland student Laura Ripley has scooped the Royal Bank of Scotland Female Entrepreneurship Award at the 13th annual Converge Awards that recognises businesses impact on society and the environment. Laura’s business, Northern Frights, is a horror and fantasy events company that uses props, special effects, and skilled actors to create immersive and […]

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