Open University Student Nominated for GradIreland ‘Difference Maker’ Award

Austeja Andrunaviciute, a 20-year-old Open University student hailing from Co. Wicklow, has been nominated for a GradIreland 'Difference Maker' award, for the establishment of the 'Edustudies Centre'.

The 'Edustudies Centre' provides support and guidance for students enrolled in international educational programs worldwide. Specialising in providing top-tier educational resources and assistance, the centre caters to a diverse range of curricula, including the International Baccalaureate Programme, Leaving Certificate, A Levels, Junior Cycle, and (I)GCSE, among others.

Austeja’s journey towards becoming a difference maker began with her passion for education and her recognition of the challenges faced by students pursuing international programs. Determined to make a positive impact, she envisioned a platform where students could access high-quality educational support tailored to their specific needs.

“When I created a 3D printing mini company in Transition Year in Ireland, I really enjoyed creating marketing materials and designing my B2C brand. The experience of getting to create my own company in Transition Year was what inspired me to pursue a degree in Business at university. During my studies at the OU, I started an educational support organisation called ‘Edustudies Centre.’”

The initiative has already had a significant impact on international students Austeja explains; “There have been students tutored primarily for International Baccalaureate (IB) in Lithuania so far - Mathematics, History and Business Management - and this has helped to improve their grades from initially scoring about 50% to between 85-100% now. This is a momentous impact, as there are teacher shortages in Lithuania for IB - due to the language barrier of having to teach in English - so this help was invaluable to Lithuanian students who needed feedback on their essays and educational support from this project's native English speaking IB tutors.

Edustudies Centre has also received positive feedback on TrustPilot and we currently have a 4-star rating.”

Through personalised guidance, comprehensive study materials, and expert mentorship, the Edustudies Centre has emerged as a valuable resource for students seeking to excel in their educational endeavours.

Austeja credits her OU tutors and OU teaching materials for her success. “My tutors are very supportive. They are friendly and easy to approach. They respond promptly to any concerns or questions I have. I love the OU’s teaching materials. They are of high quality. The books are written by the OU and are nicely condensed into targeted, manageable readings.”

The nomination for the GradIreland 'Difference Maker' award not only acknowledges Austeja’s dedication but also underscores the significant impact of her initiative on the educational landscape. As a young entrepreneur and advocate for education, she serves as an inspiration to aspiring changemakers and exemplifies the transformative power of passion and perseverance.

Speaking from experience of managing her project alongside her OU study, Austeja said; “The OU is ideal for someone who works or wants to work alongside their studies or has many personal commitments to juggle. For example, if you need to work part time to be able to support yourself, then the OU is a wonderful option, as you can earn while also studying for your qualification. Contact the Student Support Team and your tutors, they are here to support you throughout your studies, so chat to them if you feel overwhelmed. Remember that setbacks and challenges are what make us grow as people, they teach us to find solutions and overcoming these challenges are what build our character and make us who we are today.”

As the GradIreland 'Difference Maker' award ceremony approaches, Austeja's nomination serves as a reminder of the importance of innovation and initiative in driving positive change. Regardless of the outcome, her legacy as a trailblazer in education is already firmly established, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless students striving for excellence.