The Open University is calling on members of its community to demonstrate the value of learning and the role it can play in shaping futures – by sharing their own stories on social media.
In a time when flexible, open education has never been more important, we’re looking firmly to the future to how we can continue to open up new possibilities for students, employers and society as a whole.
We know the benefits of OU study to jobs, careers, family, community and employers and that anything from a free short course to a full degree can have a huge impact on someone’s future.
In this video, Sarah Jones, President of The Open University Students Association, explains how she got far more out of her OU study experience than she ever predicted.
How you can get involved – #TheFutureIsOpen
Members of the OU community – staff, students and alumni – can support the campaign by sharing what impact OU study is having or has had in shaping their future.
Whether that’s improving mental health, gaining confidence, inspiring younger generations, starting a new career, or getting a promotion, we want to hear how learning can open doors to a better future.
- Share your story on social media using the hashtag #TheFutureIsOpen. Better still, tag us in too!
- Reply to one of our campaign posts with your story, also using the hashtag #TheFutureIsOpen
- Get creative – feel free to share images or video if it helps highlight your story better.
- Share some of the inspiring stories with your own social networks and encourage others to do the same.
- If you’re not on social media but would still like to share your story, email us.
The Open University’s social media team will be reading all stories and amplifying across channels.
Share your story alongside fellow OU students and alumni
For example, Ferny Suhandi never believed Higher Education would be accessible to her. Ferny, who now lives and studies in Cambodia, is determined to show the world what she can achieve and is half way through a Social Psychology degree.
“Learning with the OU has given me more confidence in my knowledge and in my life,” she said. “It has been a life-changing experience. I feel lucky and proud to become a member of the OU community.
“I am proud that I took that leap and to be where I am in my study with the OU. I am proud of how I have changed in the years from where I was and look forward to what’s more to come.”
And Lea has not only changed her own future, with the support of OU studies, she’s also helping to make the future brighter for others through the launch of her own business.
Lea knew that a degree would not only change her life – but give her the tools needed to create change in her community.
She first enrolled to study BA (Hons) Combined Social Sciences with the OU while homeless and says the experience and the support she received from her tutors helped her to start believing in herself.
She combined her life experiences with her Open University qualifications to launch a business that provides support and wellbeing services for those in need. She has built her business from the ground up and now provides wellbeing workshops, homeless outreach and mentoring services
