The Open University

Young woman standing in front of a building

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

27 November 2023

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 […]

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

6 November 2023

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 […]

Award success for entrepreneurial student

12 October 2023

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 […]

Tarryn smiling to the camera with trees and sunshine in the background

‘I love the student community at the OU’

10 October 2023

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 […]

Jez carrying out a scientific experiment

‘I’m breaking down barriers to higher education, just like the OU did for me’

4 October 2023

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 […]

Alan and Jane at 2023 graduation ceremony, Alan dressed in ceremonial dress

‘I’ll forever be thankful for what the OU gave me’ – pioneer student returns 50 years on

3 October 2023

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’

7 September 2023

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 […]

‘I dream of being named partner of a law firm – that’s what keeps me motivated’

23 August 2023

Open University (OU) Law student Sade, 27, has big plans for the future. With savvy advice for squeezing study into a busy life, Sade shares how she manages to fit everything in and keep her eye on the prize. A mother of two young children and NHS administrator, Sade knew that going to a campus […]

‘The OU creates a space where you can be yourself’

16 August 2023

Political activist and psychology student Emma, 19, shares why they think The Open University (OU) is a smart choice for school leavers who want to get ahead in all aspects of their life. “I wasn’t in a great place before I discovered the OU. I’d had a tough time in the last couple of years […]

‘Everything has fallen into place since I discovered the OU’

7 August 2023

Committed health practitioner Aoife, developed the confidence and self-belief she was lacking during her time at The Open University (OU). At 22, Aoife reflects on how she grew as a person and transformed her career. “School wasn’t easy for me for lots of reasons. I experienced some bullying, which really knocked my confidence,” Aoife says. […]

OU News

Category: Student stories