My name:
Gearoid O'Bravender
My role:
Student Trustee
What does this role involve?
As a Trustee, I am charged with safeguarding the student organisation by making decisions on finances, staffing and governance of the Students Association.
To do this, the Trustees meet on a quarterly basis to review the management of the Students Association.
What have you studied / are studying at the OU?
I completed an MSc in Technology Management in 2024.
Why have you decided to volunteer?
While studying with the OU, I came to realise that it is a very unique and special education organisation. During my studies, I saw how the OU were able to provide remote education to students around the world. This made me want to help wherever I could. I wanted to volunteer to help ensure such a unique and special organisation has all the help it gets.
What is your previous volunteering experience with the Association?
This is my first time.
What's the summary of what you want to do in your role?
- Ensure the Association is run to the best of my ability.
- Learn more about the Association and how it is run.
- Make contacts among the OU to allow me to assist more.
- Pursue my objective of becoming an Associate Lecturer in STEM.
What are your other interests (away from OU life)?
- I'm a keen rugby supporter, especially Ireland and Munster.
- I love travel – I visited Cambodia in 2024 which was an amazing place.
- I'm also an amateur bodybuilder.