Name:
Michael Jones
My role:
Area Representative, Wales
Information about my role:
As the Wales Student Representative, I will work closely with other members of the Student Leadership Team and with the Association to foster a greater sense of community, and to amplify the voice of every student across Wales.
My priorities for the 2024–26 term:
- Establish more frequent and widespread social opportunities – both in person and online – for everyone across Wales.
- Make myself available for social events where I can share my knowledge from my role with every student I hope to support.
- Be receptive to every student I have the honour to represent – listening to their thoughts, feelings and opinions, and sharing them with the University to enrich our collective study experience. I will also provide feedback to all students on how their contributions are being used to support University development.
What I’ve been up to and what I’m currently working on:
In response to the growing demand for student social events across Wales, I founded and now lead the Wales Club, which organises events nationwide to strengthen connections between North and South Wales. I actively gather and relay student feedback to university and SU staff, ensuring accountability and driving meaningful change. As a proactive member of the student leadership team, I work collaboratively to ensure our initiatives reflect the diverse needs of students across Wales and beyond. I’ve also introduced body doubling sessions to enhance the study experience and build a stronger sense of community.
What I’m studying:
I am enjoying studying towards my BEng Engineering qualification.
What I do when I’m not studying:
Outside of my OU volunteering and studying, I work for the NHS, volunteer for the Scouts, support people in my local area with technology, and am building my confidence with the bass guitar. I also enjoy a good game of chess.
My top study tips:
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions as there are many people within our University who want to help and support you in many different ways.
- Attend as many social events as you can as it truly builds motivation, a strong positive sense of community and belonging, and you may even learn from advice provided by someone you never met before.
How to contact me:
Email: oustudents-wales@open.ac.uk
Please note that a handful of Association staff team members have access to this mailbox.
Twitter / X: @Open_Wales
Introduction video:
You can watch an introduction video from myself below.