The Office for Students is the regulator for higher education in England. They oversee more than 400 universities and colleges to ensure students from all backgrounds and lived experiences receive a high-quality education and that your interests are protected every step of the way.

As part of their visit, they met with four incredible Arden students who shared their personal journeys, challenges, and hopes for the future. These conversations are a vital part of how the Office for Students listens to and learns from students whether through the National Student Survey, focus groups, consultations on regulation changes, or visits like this one.

The students who took part were:

• Jay Agbaje, elected Student President and former Tower Hill Project Management student

• Victoria Etim, elected Vice President Education and current MSc Public Health student (Distance Learning)

• Jenna Webster, programme representative for BA Criminology & Forensic Science, third-year student (Distance Learning)

• Maria O’Sullivan, Students’ Association Advisory Board member and first-year BA LLB Law student (Distance Learning)

Together, they explored why they chose Arden, what motivates them to study, and how their university experience has adapted to fit their lives. A powerful theme emerged: Arden has helped students rediscover their confidence empowering them to pursue passions, shape future careers, and embrace their authentic selves.

We asked each student to reflect on the session and share what they took away from it:

Jenna:

“I found the day interesting and was nice to hear others' perceptions of their love for Arden and not just my own. We were all given our time to speak about our journeys and it was lovely to hear. The Students’ Association really does listen to feedback, and this is evident in the constant change in protocols. No problem is too big and feeling listened to is a great way to make people feel involved in decision making.”

Jay:

“The meeting with the OFS (Office for Students) was a great opportunity to help them see our students beyond just the numbers. I’m grateful to our students who shared their time and personal experiences so openly, it gave real insight into what it means to be an Arden student. We talked about the unique challenges many of our students face: being mature learners with family or work commitments, studying in a second language, or returning to education after many years. We also shed more light on some of the things students typically raise concerns about, from communication to ensuring that the support and resources available continue to grow in line with our expanding student population and many more, because for many of our students, education isn’t just about getting a degree; it’s a second chance at building a better future for themselves and their families. It’s important that the OFS, as the university regulator, understands this, because our students’ needs and experiences are different from those at traditional universities.”

Maria:

“Meeting with the OFS was a fantastic opportunity to understand how they are improving opportunities for students across the UK, and to show how Arden students are redefining what success in higher education looks like. Every day, Arden students challenge outdated stigmas, balancing study with work, family, disabilities, and personal commitments, often returning to education after years away or following unstable life circumstances. Sharing these experiences highlighted the resilience and determination within our vibrant student community, and the importance of recognising that our journeys, although non-traditional, are equally ambitious and deserving of support and opportunity.”

Victoria:

"Attending the meeting with the Office for Students members was such a rewarding experience. It gave me a deeper understanding of how students' voices can help shape positive changes in higher education. I am truly grateful for the second chance to pursue my master's degree, and the supportive space where distance learners can grow. It has been a journey of growth, resilience, and a renewed purpose. I encourage all students to voice their concerns, the student leadership team truly listens and acts, and your input genuinely helps shape the student experience at Arden University."

This visit was a powerful reminder of the strength and diversity of our student community—and the importance of making sure your voices are heard at every level. If you’d like to learn more about the work the Office for Students does, you can visit their website here.