Name:
Nichola Connolly
My role:
VP Student Representation
Information about my role:
As VP Student Representation I will lead on appointing supporting and training student reps on the various committees that they sit on. I will also be representing students at Senate, and will be a member of the Student Senate Reference Group. I'll be part of the advisory team to the students that sit on Senate. I will also be involved in planning for student voice activities, and advising on new qualifications and changes to modules and qualifications.
My priorities for the 2024–26 term:
My initial priorities are to recruit student reps to the committees that we have vacancies on, as well as looking at how to engage student reps so that they remain on the committees they are on. I also want to improve the feedback loop.
What I’ve been up to and what I’m currently working on:
I have taken a study break the last two years. However, I have been studying with the OU since 2018, and volunteering with the Students Association almost as long as I have been studying. I have been working on the Lifelong Learning manifesto, which has now come to fruition and has been published. I have also chaired various meetings, including the planning group for the Student Voice Festival.
What I’m studying:
I am studying towards a BA Hons Primary Education Studies degree – I have two modules left to complete it. The next module will be E320 Contemporary Research with Children and Young People. I hope to graduate in 2026.
What I do when I’m not studying:
I spend time with family and friends, as they are my main priority outside studying and volunteering. I also enjoy reading for pleasure when I get the chance, as well as visits to the theatre and cinema.
My top study tips:
- Being organised and time management is key, I would have a HeadStart when the module website opens to have a buffer for those unexpected life circumstances that often crop up at the most inconvenient of times.
- Not comparing yourself to other students. Your student journey is unique to yourself and no-one else.
How to contact me:
Email: oustudents-VP-representation@open.ac.uk
Please note that a handful of Association staff team members have access to this mailbox.
Twitter / X: @OpenStudentRep