The Uni Guide Podcast

The Uni Guide Podcast - all episodes

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

3 weeks ago

43 minutes 23 seconds

The Uni Guide Podcast

University in 2026 – year 12’s biggest questions answered

Episode 45 - University in 2026 – year 12’s biggest questions answered

In this episode, we’re looking ahead to university from a Year 12 perspective, tackling the questions that are front of mind for students right now. From choosing courses to writing personal statements, this is a chance to hear honest views from current students who are one step ahead in the process.

We’re joined by new co-hosts Chloe and Tami, both starting Year 13 and thinking about studying Business (Chloe) and Computer Science (Tami). Together with current student Reece, they share their experiences, worries and advice on the journey to university.

We’ll cover:

How students decide which courses to consider
What it feels like to think about moving away from home
First-hand experiences of university events and open days
The reality of predicted grades and how they affect decisions
Personal statements – including thoughts on the new format
Student finance – what feels clear and what’s still confusing
The advice Reece would give to his younger self
What Chloe and Tami say they’ve learned most from this episode

If you’re in Year 12 and already thinking about university in 2026, this episode gives you the student perspective on the big questions you might have yourself.

Featuring:

Chloe Bonner, Year 13 student studying Politics, History and Business

Tami Okubote, Year 13 student studying Computer Science, Maths and Physics

Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources:

UniTasterDays.com

The Uni Guide Podcast - all episodes

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1 month ago

35 minutes 41 seconds

The Uni Guide Podcast

E44: Get Uni ready for 2026 – study skills and exam techniques

E44: Get Uni ready for 2026 – study skills and exam techniques

In this episode, we’re focusing on the skills and strategies that can make a real difference to your studies and your results. Whether you’re revising for exams, getting ready for university, or just looking to improve how you learn, this is your chance to hear proven advice from an expert who has supported over half a million students.

Study skills and exam techniques often go hand in hand, but they aren’t exactly the same thing. So, how do they link – and how can you master both?

We’re joined by Sander, the Founder of MADE Training, an organisation that has delivered workshops to schools and colleges across the UK, in conversation with student co-host Rosie. Together, they share the three big themes they think every student should know – plus a fun challenge you can try yourself.

We’ll cover:

The difference between study skills and exam techniques – and why it matters
How to build strong study habits and routines that actually stick
Ways to find the learning techniques that work best for you
Time management strategies and reward systems that keep you motivated
Memory techniques you can use to make revision more effective

If you’re aiming for exam success in 2026 – or want to get uni ready well before you arrive – this episode is packed with practical tips you can start using today.

Featuring:

Sander de Groot - Director, and Head of Training, Made Training

Rosie Glover - Law Student at Durham University

Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources:

Uni Taster Days

The Uni Guide Podcast - all episodes

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2 months ago

41 minutes 59 seconds

The Uni Guide Podcast

E43: Get ready for Results Day & Clearing 2025

In this episode, we’re helping students feel ready for one of the biggest days in their pre-university journey – Results Day – and prepared to navigate the Clearing process with confidence if they need to.

Clearing can be an excellent route into university, but many students don’t fully understand how it works or how to make the most of it under pressure. So, where should you start? And what should you do before, during and after Results Day to keep your options open?

We’re joined by experienced university staff who have supported thousands of students through Results Day and Clearing, alongside student panellists who share their own stories, honest reflections and top tips for staying calm when it counts.

We’ll cover:

What Clearing actually is, who it’s for, and when it happens
What to expect on Results Day and how to prepare in advance
How to search for courses and make calls through Clearing
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
What happens once you accept an offer through Clearing
Real experiences, lessons learned and reassuring advice from those who’ve been there

If you’re waiting for results this year, this episode will help you feel ready for Results Day – and Clearing – so you can take your next step with confidence.

Featuring:

Danny North, Schools and Colleges Liaison Officer, University of Staffordshire

Stephanie Hartley, UK Recruitment Officer, University of Southampton

and from the Student and Graduate Panel:

Dr Leah Brooks, Final Year Medical Student at the University of Sheffield (Leah has completed her final exams!)

Reece Buckley - Micro and Molecular Biology student at Manchester Metropolitan University

Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources:

Uni Taster Days

E42: Make the most of uni fairs - before, during and after

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

4 months ago

45 minutes 59 seconds

The Uni Guide Podcast

E42: Make the most of uni fairs – before, during and after

In this episode, we're guiding students through every stage of a university fair – helping them feel prepared before it starts, confident while it's happening, and clear on what to do next.

University fairs can be a brilliant opportunity to explore your options, ask questions, and gather the info you need to make informed choices about your future. But with so many stands, conversations and decisions, where should you begin?

We’re joined by an experienced guest who has supported thousands of students at fairs across the UK, in conversation with student panellist Reece who recently attended fairs as a student. They share practical tips, common pitfalls, and the advice they wish every student knew.

We’ll cover:

What a university fair actually is – and what you’ll be doing on the day
How to prepare in advance, including the smart questions to ask
Whether to shortlist who to speak to – or keep an open mind
How to avoid common mistakes and make the most of your conversations
What to do after the event – and how to follow up effectively

If you’re heading to a uni fair soon, this episode will help you get the most out of the experience – before, during and after.

Featuring:

Martin Batley - Sales Director, UK University Search

Reece Buckley - Micro and Molecular Biology student at Manchester Metropolitan University

Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources:

Uni Taster Days

E41: Mental health at uni – what to know before you go

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

5 months ago

37 minutes 13 seconds

The Uni Guide Podcast

E41: Mental health at uni – what to know before you go

In this episode, we’re exploring what really matters when it comes to well-being and support before and during university life – from dealing with the pressures of applying, to navigating student life once you’re there.

We’re joined by two incredible guests who bring insights from both personal and professional perspectives – sharing practical advice, personal reflections, and the tools that can make a real difference for students.

We’ll cover:

What to think about before applying to university – from managing exam stress to choosing the right course or location
The key support systems to look out for when you arrive – including tutors, wellbeing teams and university resources
How to stay connected and balance your academic, social and personal life in your first year
Honest reflections on the challenges students may face – and how to get support
The one piece of advice our guests would give their younger selves

If you’re thinking about applying to university – or already preparing for your first year – this episode offers thoughtful guidance, encouragement and reassurance to help you take the next step with confidence.

Featuring:

Dom Smithies – Head of Influencing & Communications at Student Minds

Leah Brooks – COO of Future Frontline, Lead Student Advisor at UniTasterDays and multi-award-winning WP medical student

Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources:

Uni Taster Days

E40: Your first year at uni - what to expect from student life

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

6 months ago

52 minutes 34 seconds

The Uni Guide Podcast

E40: Your first year at uni – what to expect from student life

Starting university: freshers, finance, studies and settling in

In this episode, we’re diving into what student life is really like in your first year of university – from the excitement of freshers’ week to the realities of budgeting, balancing studies, and settling into a whole new way of learning and living.

We’ve brought together current students to share their honest experiences and advice – covering the things they wish they’d known, the surprises (good and bad!), and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.

We’ll cover:

How university life differs from school or college – and what to expect in your first few weeks
What freshers' week is really about – and how to make the most of it
The opportunities that come with student life – from societies to independence
Advice for balancing academic work with social life and everything in between
Real talk: any regrets or challenges? And how they were overcome
The top tips our panel would give their younger selves before starting uni

If you’re preparing for university – or just curious about what the first year is really like – this episode is packed with practical insights, reflections and reassurance to help you start your journey with confidence.

Tune in now to hear what student life is actually like – from those who’ve lived it.

Featuring:

Foujia Abdus Begum, first year student at University College London

Reece Buckley, second year student at Manchester Metropolitan University

Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources:

Uni Taster Days

E39: Creative courses at university – passion to profession

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

7 months ago

41 minutes 33 seconds

The Uni Guide Podcast

E39: Creative courses at university – passion to profession

In this episode, we’re shining a spotlight on creative courses at university – from art and design to media, music, performing arts and beyond.

We’ve brought together a panel of experts and students to explore what creative courses really offer, and how they can lead to rewarding careers across a whole range of industries.

We’ll cover:

What creative courses actually are – and why they’re worth considering
Busting common myths – like whether creative graduates struggle to find jobs or earn a decent salary
The unique experiences creative students get at university – from hands-on projects to industry connections
The skills creative students develop, and how they open doors to flexible careers
The support available – from networking and work placements to advice on freelancing and running your own business
And, as always, we’ll ask our panel: knowing what they know now, what advice would they give their younger selves when deciding whether to apply for a creative course at university?

If you’re passionate about creativity and wondering where it could take you, this episode is packed with advice, insights and real-life experiences to help you decide if a creative course could be your perfect fit.

Tune in now to discover how a creative degree can turn passion into profession!

Featuring:

Gavin Spoors, Regional Student Recruitment Officer at Norwich University of the Arts

Karl Markey-Lee, Final Year Acting student at Guildhall School of Music & Drama

Lily Rice, Access and Participation Manager, Guildhall School of Music & Drama

Sky-Anna, Design for Publishing student at Norwich University of the Arts

Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources:

Uni Taster Days

E38: Degree & Higher Apprenticeships - Earn and learn

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

8 months ago

47 minutes 13 seconds

The Uni Guide Podcast

Episode 38: Degree & Higher Apprenticeships - Earn and learn

Are you weighing up whether to go to university or start an apprenticeship? In this episode, we bring together a panel of experts and students to explore both pathways, helping you make an informed decision about your future.

We’ll cover:

The different types of apprenticeships and how they compare to university degrees.
Why apprenticeships can be a game-changer for young people starting their careers.
Common myths about apprenticeships – including job security, student life, and career flexibility.
Whether university offers experiences that apprenticeships can’t quite match.
Real-life insights from students and professionals who’ve taken both routes.

And, as always, we’ll ask our panel: knowing what they know now, what advice would they give their younger selves when deciding between university and an apprenticeship?

If you're unsure about your next steps, this episode is packed with insights, practical advice, and real experiences to help you decide. Tune in now to find the right path for you!

Featuring:

Amy Allen, Project Manager, Apprenticeships Growth Project
Azara Blackwood, Apprenticeship Growth Progression Officer, Apprenticeships Growth Project
Rosie Glover, Law Student at Durham University and a member of the Uni Guide student panel

Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources:

Uni Taster Days

E37: Is university right for you in 2025?

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

9 months ago

48 minutes 20 seconds

The Uni Guide Podcast

Episode 37: Is university right for you in 2025?

Are you wondering if university is the right path for you? In this episode, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making that big decision in 2025. From the key benefits of university life to common misconceptions, our expert guests and student panel dive into the real stories behind higher education.

We’ll explore:

Why people go to university through the lens of four unique characters: the profession-seeker, the problem solver, the subject explorer, and the skills builder.
Misconceptions about degrees and careers – and why your subject doesn’t define your future.
How to explore super-curricular activities if you’re unsure about committing to university.
Whether university is a smart financial investment and how to make the decision that’s right for you.
Practical tips to help you choose the right course, pick the best university, and get the most out of open days and taster sessions.

And, of course, we’ll ask our student guests: knowing what they know now, what advice would they give their younger selves before starting university?

If you’re trying to figure out your next steps, this episode is packed with insights, practical advice, and real stories to help you decide if university is right for you. Tune in now and take your first step towards making an informed decision about your future!

Featuring:

Jonathan Tinnacher, Founder, Better Uni Choices

and from our student and graduate panel:

Anton Springett, Computer Science Graduate, University of Kent.

Reece Buckley, Micro and Molecular Biology at Manchester Metropolitan University

Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources:

Uni Taster Days

E36: Making your university personal statement stand out

Find out more about Better Uni Choices

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

10 months ago

50 minutes 4 seconds

The Uni Guide Podcast

Episode 36: Making your university personal statement stand out

In this episode of The Uni Guide Podcast, we’re tackling everything you need to know about writing a standout personal statement for your 2025 university application. Whether you’re just getting started or refining your final draft, our expert insights will help you navigate this crucial part of the admissions process.

We’ll cover:

What is a personal statement? A quick breakdown of its purpose and why it matters.
The Student Room’s free review service – is it worth using?
Top tips for starting from scratch – practical advice for those still staring at a blank page.
Refining your draft – advanced pointers for those who’ve already begun but want to ensure their statement stands out.
Do universities actually read personal statements?
Avoiding common mistakes – learn the pitfalls many students fall into and how to steer clear of them.
Advice to our younger selves – reflecting on what we wish we’d known before starting university.

If you’re applying for university in 2025, this episode is packed with insights to make your personal statement shine. Don’t miss it!

Featuring:

Jasminne Gwalter. Community Manager, The Student Room Group

and from our student and graduate panel:

Ishan Dwivedi, Software Engineer and University of Cambridge Graduate

Reece Buckley, Micro and Molecular Biology at Manchester Metropolitan University

Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources:

Uni Taster Days

E35: Get university ready - turn your potential into performance

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

11 months ago

34 minutes 49 seconds

The Uni Guide Podcast

Turning potential into performance – your motivation boost for the new academic year

In this episode, we're here to give you the motivation you need to kick off the new academic year with energy and focus. We'll help you see the opportunities ahead and unlock your full potential. We’ll explore:

What does it mean to turn potential into performance, and why is it essential?
How can university make the most of your ability?
How do you identify your strengths and use them to your advantage?
What does success look like, and how do you achieve it?
What's the #1 motivation tip to keep you driven throughout the year?

Tune in for actionable insights and a dose of inspiration to continue your academic journey on the right foot.

Featuring:

Kamal Ellis-Hyman, Company Founder and Director, Aim A Little Higher

and from our student and graduate panel:

Leah Brooks, medical student at the University of Sheffield

Ishan Dwivedi, Software Engineer and University of Cambridge Graduate

Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources:

Uni Taster Days

E34: Making the most of your university open day

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1 year ago

1 hour 1 minute 39 seconds

The Uni Guide Podcast

In this episode, we dive into all aspects of university open days to help you get the most out of your experience. We'll cover:

What is an Open Day?

What exactly happens at a university open day?
Do all universities offer them?
When and where do they take place?
How do they differ from other university events?

Why attend and how to prepare:

Why should attending an open day be a priority for you?
Should you go solo, or bring friends, family, or attend with your school?
How many open days should you aim to visit?
Are there online options if time or travel costs are a concern?
What steps should you take in advance to get the most out of the experience?

Booking your spot:

Is booking necessary, and if so, how do you do it?
Are there any fees involved?

What to expect:

Do you need to stay for the entire day or attend specific sessions?
Is advance booking for sessions required?
Are there any dress codes or guest limits?
What are the best ways to get there?

Maximizing your open day:

How can you make the most of your time on campus?
What should you prioritise if you're short on time?
What key questions should you ask university staff and students?
Are there any common mistakes to avoid?
And finally, what should you do after the open day to keep the momentum going?

Whether you're preparing for your first open day or looking to fine-tune your strategy, this episode is packed with practical advice to make your visit a success.

Featuring:

Simon Fairbanks, Head of Community Engagement at UniTasterDays. Simon has previously worked at four universities.

and from our student panel:

Rosie Glover, second year student at Durham University

Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources:

Uni Taster Days

E33: Mastering your 2025 university application

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1 year ago

41 minutes 46 seconds

The Uni Guide Podcast

In this special episode we are getting you ready for your 2025 university application - because you an submit your university application from now - September 3 2024!

Key Topics We'll Cover:

What subjects are popular? Which ones are not?
When do students start working on their personal statements?
What are the most popular university searches on Unifrog?
What did our expert guests wish they knew about university?
What are the biggest concerns students have in relation to university?
What is the most important factor for students when choosing universities?
When do students start researching universities?

Featuring:

Megan Soley, University Partnerships Co-ordinator at Unifrog

and from our student panel:

Leah Brooks, Medicine student at the University of Sheffield

Foujia Abdus Begum, Year 13 student - and Foujia is starting university this September!

Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources:

Uni Taster Days

E32: University Clearing - ready, set, call

Or, find out more about Unifrog.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1 year ago

39 minutes 18 seconds

The Uni Guide Podcast

In this special episode dedicated to university results day and clearing, we bring you invaluable insights and guidance with FIVE special guests!

We’ll walk listeners through three mock clearing phone calls, demonstrating exactly what you can expect during these crucial conversations with universities.

Key Topics We'll Cover:

What is Clearing?: Understand the purpose and process of clearing in the university admissions system.
When does Clearing start?: Get the timeline for when clearing begins and how long it typically lasts.
Top tips for students preparing for Clearing: Gain expert advice on how to best prepare for the clearing process.
Essential questions to ask during clearing calls: Learn the most important questions to ask universities when you’re on a clearing call.

Featuring:

Emma Hall, Senior Admissions Manager at Edge Hill University

Oliver Rosetti, Outreach Manager at the University of Leicester

Rachel Stanley, Student Recruitment Officer (Schools & Colleges) at St Mary’s University

and from our student panel:

Leah Brooks, Medicine student at the University of Sheffield

Rosie Glover, Law student at Durham University

Join us for this comprehensive guide to navigating clearing, ensuring you are well-prepared to make the most of your university admissions opportunities!

Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources:

Uni Taster Days

E31: Student finance part 2 - the facts

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1 year ago

44 minutes 29 seconds

The Uni Guide Podcast

In this episode, part 2 of our student finance two-episode special, we discuss:

What are the key student finance facts students need to know? Including a guide to tuition fees and maintenance loans
How do repayments work? Including what is the repayment period?
What has changed recently with student finance?
A real example of a repayment based on earnings
What is the lifelong learning entitlement?
How else can students make money? Including university job opportunities.
Free money at university and what are the strangest scholarships?
What are the best student incentives – including bank accounts

Join us as we uncover the essentials of funding university, making sure you're well-prepared to handle the financial aspects of your education. Whether you're a current student or planning to start your academic journey, this episode is packed with valuable insights and advice.

Featuring:

Tom Allingham, Communications Director at Save the Student

Jerry Ndi, first-year International Finance and Economics student at Queen Mary University in London.

You can find out more about the guests HERE

Also, check out Episode 30, where we get a student perspective of student loans, featuring Anton, a final year Computer Science student at the University of Kent, Foujia, a Year 13 Sixth Form student hoping to start university in September and Rosie, a first year Law student at Durham University

Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources:

Uni Taster Days

Save The Student - The student money website for everything student finance

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1 year ago

32 minutes 6 seconds

The Uni Guide Podcast

E30: Student finance part 1 - funding your future

In this episode, we explore the complex world of student finance to help students navigate their way through funding university. We discuss:

Student Loans: How do students really feel about taking on loans? Including the emotional and psychological impact of student debt.
Spending Habits: Discover what current students are spending their money on and how it affects their financial stability.
Year Abroad: Considering studying abroad? Learn about the financial implications and how a year overseas can impact student loans.
Student Finance Facts: Repayment thresholds, how long students will be paying loans back for, and more (we explore this further in Episode 32).
Two-Year Degrees: We examine the financial considerations of pursuing a two-year degree and how it compares to traditional programs.
Finance Application: Get a step-by-step guide to the student finance application process, and don't miss out on crucial funding.
Student Life and Budgeting: Practical tips on budgeting and managing finances to make student life more affordable and enjoyable.
Scholarships and Bursaries: The impact of free money to support university studies.

Also, check out Episode 31, where we delve into student finance facts, including repayment periods, repayment thresholds, and more.

Featuring:

Anton Springett, a final year Computer Science student at the University of Kent

Foujia Abdus Begum, a Year 13 Sixth Form student hoping to start university in September

Rosie Glover, a first year Law student at Durham University

You can find out more about the guests HERE

Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources:

Uni Taster Days

E29: Choosing university accommodation: home comforts vs. living away

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1 year ago

46 minutes 2 seconds

The Uni Guide Podcast

Explore the exciting world of university accommodation! Join us as we discuss where students live at university and the advantages and disadvantages of each option. We'll have a brilliant discussion with Foujia, who is starting university very soon, Anton, in his final year, and Ishan, who has recently graduated.

We'll be covering accommodation concerns, what to expect in university accommodation, top tips for choosing accommodation, and much more.

Featuring:

Foujia Abdus Begum, Year 13 Sixth Form student hoping to start university in September

Anton Springett, a final year Computer Science student at the University of Kent

Ishan Dwivedi, University of Cambridge 2023 graduate

You can find out more about the guests HERE

Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources:

Uni Taster Days

E28: Studying Law at university and beyond

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1 year ago

38 minutes 15 seconds

The Uni Guide Podcast

We're discussing studying Law at university with:

Rosie Glover - a member of the Uni Guide Student Panel, current Law student at Durham University, and the first in her family to go to university; and
Paige Tugby, who has been through the university journey, is now a Trainee Solicitor and Police Station Representative. Paige also appeared on TV, sharing her experience on How to Crack the Class Ceiling.

We discuss:

Why students may wish to consider Law
The support our guests received before starting university
If university has lived up to expectations
What advice Paige and Rosie would give to their younger selves when considering university and studying Law.

Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources:

E27: Making the most of university - opportunities outside the course

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1 year ago

42 minutes 55 seconds

The Uni Guide Podcast

Explore the exciting world of university and career preparation in this episode! Join us as we uncover how universities equip students for their professional journeys, including insights on potentially even starting your own business, before, during or after university.

You'll discover expert tips to maximise the university experience and even take advantage of international opportunities that may await. Plus, we delve into the art of networking and forging meaningful connections while making friends in the vibrant university environment. Tune in for a comprehensive guide to navigating the university landscape, shaping future success and crucially, making the most of university!

Featuring:

James Eder - Work Life Coach, Speaker & Entrepreneur, Co-Founder Student Beans @jameseder

Joe Coates - Educational Coach at Arete Tutoring, Consultant at Archus and University of Birmingham Graduate

Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources:

Uni Taster Days