Free Resources And Benefits Available To Ou Students

Introduction

The Open University (OU) offers numerous free resources, benefits, and opportunities to its students beyond standard academic support. These offerings include free courses, software access, career support, financial assistance, and various student activities. While the provided source material does not specifically detail "OU students association freebies," it does outline several valuable benefits and resources available to OU students that can enhance their educational experience and provide financial relief.

Academic Resources

OU students have access to several academic resources that complement their studies. Among these is the free "Being an OU Student" course, which provides orientation and support for new students. This course helps students navigate the OU system and make the most of their educational journey.

Additionally, the university offers access to the SCONUL Access scheme, which allows students to borrow materials from other academic libraries. This resource is particularly valuable for students who need specialized materials not available through OU's own library system.

The source material also mentions the OU Alumni Association, which provides exclusive discounts, events, and volunteering opportunities. While not explicitly described as free, these benefits represent added value for students who eventually transition to alumni status.

Software and Digital Access

OU students receive free access to Microsoft Office 365, a significant benefit that includes essential productivity tools such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more. This software access helps students complete their coursework without the need to purchase expensive office software independently.

The source material also references free entertainment options available to students, including access to College Music, a successful YouTube channel that is "totally free for everyone to enjoy." While not unique to OU students, this represents an additional free resource that students can access.

Career Support Services

OU provides comprehensive career support services through its career experts. The source material mentions that students can access "free careers support with OU experts." This service likely includes career counseling, resume assistance, job search guidance, and potentially connections to employment opportunities.

The University of Oklahoma Career Center, mentioned in one of the sources, offers a "one-stop shop" for career preparation. While this appears to be specific to the University of Oklahoma rather than The Open University, it suggests similar career support structures may be available at both institutions. The center provides career fairs, personalized advising, and other services designed to help students secure employment after graduation.

Financial Assistance

OU students have access to various forms of financial support, although the source material does not provide specific details about the nature or amount of these offerings. The material simply states that there is a "whole host of financial support available to OU students."

This financial support may include scholarships, grants, or other assistance programs designed to help students manage the costs associated with their education. While the specifics are not detailed in the provided sources, the acknowledgment of financial support indicates that OU recognizes the financial challenges students may face and has resources in place to help.

Student Events and Activities

The source material mentions "Student Hub Live," which is described as "a series of live, online, interactive and inclusive events open to everyone at The Open University." These events are designed to support OU students in their studies and facilitate academic community.

One notable feature introduced is "The World Wide Webber," where students can ask Scott about any period in history, and he will explain it in just three minutes. This represents an innovative educational resource that supplements formal coursework with concise historical information.

Additionally, the source material references an event where attendees had the chance to win a "$500 scholarship and other freebies." While not specific to student association activities, this indicates that OU occasionally offers special events and incentives for students.

Mental Health and Wellness Support

OU provides mental health services to support student well-being. The source material mentions "OUr Mental Health Services" employees who promote awareness about mental health. Students can seek help, ask questions, or provide feedback through various channels, including Instagram, Twitter, email, and Facebook.

The University Counseling Center offers "comprehensive mental health services" with counselors available virtually from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. This service provides counseling, crisis intervention, consultation, and outreach services to support the psychological well-being of the university community.

Writing Support

The OU Writing Center offers pedagogical services to support the writing development of OU students and the wider community. Rather than providing proofreading or editing services, the center aims to help writers "learn something they can use in the future" through thoughtful, intentional, and useful feedback.

Conclusion

While the provided source material does not offer comprehensive information specifically about "OU students association freebies," it does outline several valuable resources and benefits available to OU students. These include free academic resources, software access, career support services, financial assistance, student events, mental health support, and writing assistance. Students are encouraged to explore these offerings through official university channels and contact the university directly for more specific information about available benefits.

Sources

1. Student Hub Live - Episode 6: Discounts, Freebies, and the World Wide Webber
2. OU Poker Walk Offers Employees Incentives to Get and Stay Fit
3. Gaylord Extra - September 2022
4. Doghouse Bingo Freebie