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Category: Student stories
‘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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‘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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‘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 […]
‘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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‘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
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 […]
‘I love the student community at the OU’
On World Mental Health Day, Tarryn, 23, shares how studying at The Open University (OU) has given her the support and confidence she needs to pursue a new career path, helping young people to discover their potential. Challenging circumstances Following a misdiagnosis that followed her throughout school, Tarryn’s early education was fraught with challenges. “Back […]
‘I’m breaking down barriers to higher education, just like the OU did for me’
Jez, 51, left school with no qualifications, believing that higher education was beyond his reach. Years later, Jez chanced upon an Open University (OU) science programme on TV – a discovery that fuelled his fascination with space and sparked an academic journey he never imagined was possible. Now Jez’s work at the University of Nottingham […]
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‘I’ll forever be thankful for what the OU gave me’ – pioneer student returns 50 years on
At 85, fifty years after making history by crossing the stage at The Open University’s (OU) first degree ceremony, pioneer student Alan returned to the OU to help 2023 graduates celebrate their success in Manchester’s stunning Bridgewater Hall. Alan shares how OU study boosted his teaching career, improved his confidence and helped him to find […]
‘OU study gave me skills beyond a qualification, I’ve grown as a person’
Rubi, 38, didn’t think she was cut out for higher education, until an exciting career change inspired a newfound passion for learning. Now working as a Diplomatic Assistant, Rubi says that her OU degree and masters have helped her to thrive. “I never liked school. I think it was the structure of having to be […]
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