The October Study Challenge
The October Study Challenge is the brainchild of three OU students who wanted to help connect new and existing students via a series of fun challenges on Instagram – and this year it’s set to be bigger and better.
In 2021, The Open University collaborated with three OU students, Sam, Annette, and Alana, to help create the October Study Challenge – an online content series that engages new and existing students in daily challenges, helps them learn more about the OU’s resources and meet other students.
With minimal promotion, the challenge was a huge success with a reach of 760,386 on Instagram and overwhelmingly positive feedback from the students that took part. This year, we are working with the students again to make the October Study Challenge bigger and better! Meet the students behind the challenge and find out how you can get involved:
How did you meet the other students who created the October Study Challenge?
Sam (@thefemalephysicist): “I met them both on Instagram, Annette first due to our shared interests and similar degree topics, then Alana as another woman in STEM. I created a group chat to discuss all things OU and life and it snowballed from there. We have since met up, had regular Zoom evenings together and talk all the time, despite our Manchester> St Albans and Cardiff geographical barrier.”
Why did you decide to create the October Study Challenge?
Alana (@alana_codes): “We wanted to find an easy way for other OU students to make friends with each other, as often that can be the part people find the hardest. Even though it is a distance learning university, it doesn’t mean it has to be solitary.
We started chatting on Instagram, made a WhatsApp group, and then moved on to Zoom calls. We’ve also met up in the flesh at Bletchley Park for the day (and headed down the road to take a selfie with the OU sign!) which was amazing and are all heading to the National Space Centre in Leicester in October. Distance doesn’t need to be a barrier.
Alongside Sam and Annette, I’ve made some other great friends both in my degree and others who aren’t. These friends have opened opportunities for possible career changes and other opportunities and ideas which I might never have considered.”
What advice do you have for new OU students?
Annette (@planetgazer_gal): “Don’t be afraid to make contact – whether that be with your tutor, fellow students, other Instagram users or student support. Everyone is so supportive. It’s better to have a conversation than suffer in silence. The solution may be simpler than you thought!
“Never compare your progress with others – people study with the OU for a variety of reasons and at a different pace. Whilst some may be miles ahead of the planner, their circumstances may be very different from yours. You study at your pace for what works with you. Of course, if you fall drastically behind the planner then please refer to my previous advice. Don’t suffer in silence!
“Give yourself a break – don’t be too tough on yourself. OU study is all about self-motivation, however, some days it’s just not there. Recognise the hard work you do, but don’t punish yourself when you don’t. We all need a break now and then, and usually, if you’re just not feeling it, it’s your brain telling you to take some time.”
Anything else you would like to add?
Annette (@planetgazer_gal): “My experience studying with the OU has been beyond my expectations. Besides the high quality of teaching and study materials which have made it a pleasure to learn, it’s been an enriching sociable experience too. I’ve made some wonderful friends for life, joined societies & even landed my dream job.
If you’re nervous or questioning your decision to study, don’t be. If you jump in with two feet, you’ll have more than just a degree at the end of it.”
How to take part in the October Study Challenge
Join in with the October Study Challenge 2022 by taking part in any or all of the challenges shared across the OU social channels – this could be anything from sharing a photo of your study space, tips on managing study stress, or highlighting the things/people/processes that motivate you.
The challenges will be shared throughout October on The Open University’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages. Don’t forget to use the hashtag #OctoberStudyChallenge for a chance to win some OU goodies!
Follow Annette, Alana and Sam to learn more about their study journey!
