If you’ve ever joined an online meeting ‘just to listen’ and somehow left feeling more connected, more confident, and vaguely proud of yourself for showing up, you already understand the magic of the Wales Club at The Open University!
This January, that magic is getting a practical twist.
On Wednesday, 14 January, from 6pm to 7pm, the Open SU Wales Club is hosting a special online event in collaboration with Employability Wales, led by Michael Jones (Wales Area Representative) and me. It’s shaping up to be one of those sessions that quietly punches above its weight — the kind that doesn’t shout about changing your future, but might do precisely that.
Let’s be honest: employability events can sometimes feel a bit… stiff. Buzzwords, bullet points, and the creeping sense that everyone else knows what they’re doing except you. This event is deliberately not that.
Instead, it’s designed around real students, real pathways, and fundamental questions — the kind you usually think of five minutes after the meeting ends. Whether you’re just starting your OU journey, returning to study after a long break, juggling work and family, or wondering how on earth your degree translates into the “real world”, this session is for you.
And yes — you’re allowed to turn your camera off!
Of course, as with many Open SU Wales plans, some of the organising for this event has taken place with a cat firmly involved. Winter, my ever-present Maine Coon supervisor, has mainly contributed by sitting on the keyboard, deleting lines as I wrote this article, and by offering silent judgment throughout the planning process. She remains unconvinced by buzzwords, but wholly supportive of anything that helps humans feel more confident – preferably with treats.
So, what’s actually happening?
At its heart, this Wales Club event is about connection: connecting students to opportunities, to support, and to a clearer sense of what’s possible beyond the next assignment deadline.
Working alongside Employability Wales, we’ll be exploring:
- How employability support actually works (without the jargon).
- What skills OU students are gaining (often without realising), confidence and career prospects.
- Why your route doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s to be valid.
- What Employability Wales offer you.
But just as importantly, it’s about creating a space that feels Welsh in the best sense: welcoming, community-focused, and refreshingly human.
Michael brings a wealth of experience supporting students across Wales, and together we’re passionate about making sure students don’t just survive their studies, but feel empowered by them.
Why the Wales Club matters
The Wales Club isn’t just a social extra; it’s a reminder that studying with The Open University doesn’t mean studying alone. For many students – especially those balancing caring responsibilities, work, or returning to education later in life – these spaces can be transformative.
They’re where confidence grows quietly.
Where questions feel safer.
Where someone finally thinks, “Oh – it’s not just me.”
This event builds on that ethos. It’s informative, yes – but it’s also encouraging. Because employability isn’t just about CVs and job titles; it’s about recognising your own value and learning how to talk about it without feeling like an imposter.
Expect insight – and a bit of humour.
There will be practical takeaways. There will be helpful information. There may even be moments of genuine clarity.
There will also be warmth, honesty, and the shared understanding that nobody has it all figured out – despite what LinkedIn might suggest.
If you come along and leave with one new idea, one useful contact, or even just a renewed sense that you’re on the right path, then we’ll consider it a success.
And if you come along in your pyjamas, clutching a cup of tea, wondering whether to stay the whole hour, you’ll be in excellent company.
Everyone’s welcome
Whether you’re actively considering your next steps or just curious about what support is available, this event is open, inclusive, and designed with students at its centre.
So if you’re looking for an event that blends community, confidence and career insight, without the pressure, join us on Wednesday, 14 January, 6pm–7pm, for the Open SU Wales Club event with Employability Wales.
Sometimes the most critical step forward is simply turning up. And we’d love to see you there.
For details on this event and many others, please visit the Events page on the Open SU website.
Another awesome article Scarlet! Keep up the good work!