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...
Jul 05, 2025•46 min•Ep. 43
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...
Jun 09, 2025•37 min•Ep. 42
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 cov...
May 08, 2025•53 min•Ep. 41
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 ...
Apr 10, 2025•42 min•Ep. 40
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 whe...
Mar 10, 2025•47 min•Season 1Ep. 39
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 apprentices...
Feb 05, 2025•48 min•Season 1Ep. 38
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 subj...
Jan 07, 2025•50 min•Season 1Ep. 37
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 ...
Dec 04, 2024•35 min•Season 1Ep. 36
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 doe...
Nov 06, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 1Ep. 35
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 y...
Oct 02, 2024•42 min•Season 1Ep. 34
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 ...
Sep 03, 2024•39 min•Season 1Ep. 33
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 begin...
Jul 15, 2024•44 min•Season 1Ep. 32
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 ...
Jun 26, 2024•32 min•Season 1Ep. 31
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 ...
Jun 05, 2024•46 min•Season 1Ep. 30
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 Fo...
May 07, 2024•38 min•Season 1Ep. 29
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 st...
Apr 10, 2024•43 min•Season 1Ep. 28
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 fr...
Mar 08, 2024•55 min•Season 1Ep. 27
We delve into the significance of careers support for a young person thinking about their future. From discussing whether university serves as a useful career pathway to understanding how career trajectories shift between school and university, we explore the key considerations for 16 and 17 year-olds embarking on their career journeys. Tune in for engaging discussions and valuable insights. Featuring: Chris Webb - Higher Education Careers Professional / Freelance Careers Writer / Podcaster / Co...
Feb 05, 2024•50 min•Season 1Ep. 26
The Uni Guide Podcast is proud to bring you an episode that explores the lived experiences of students and graduates coming out as LGBT+ at university.Join us as we meet our fantastic trio who share with us their personal journey of coming out within an open and honest discussion on issues such as: identity, queerness, living away from home, socialising, discussing their identity to friends and family and how society and education needs to change going forward to support fellow LGBT+ students. T...
Jan 09, 2024•54 min•Season 1Ep. 25
In this podcast episode, we delve into studying abroad as part of a university degree. With Emma Berwick , a Business with French student at the University of Birmingham (and a member of The Uni Guide student panel). We'll explore what to expect from a year abroad, touching on why Emma opted for this academic path, including insights into combined courses. We also discuss the ins and outs of spending time studying in a new country – from navigating exchange events to understanding the role of th...
Dec 18, 2023•30 min•Season 1Ep. 24
We’re going global! Tune in for top tips and advice about studying outside the UK from David Hawkins at The University Guys , one of the leading experts in this space, as well as the fantastic Leah and Anton from The Uni Guide student panel. We’ll cover the benefits of studying outside the UK, how to select universities and courses. Then, of course, money talks! So, we’ll cover the ins and outs of funding an international university experience. How does it compare to good ol' student finance in ...
Nov 29, 2023•37 min•Season 1Ep. 23
FREE MONEY! Two words, when put together, that will capture most people's attention. But what about free money and funding for students considering university courses? In this podcast episode, we explore and share that there are such opportunities for students in the shape of bursaries and scholarships. But what are they, and more importantly, how can you get your hands on them? To find out, Jon and Tim recruit the help of Anton Springett (a university student who has accessed them) alongside a ...
Nov 07, 2023•41 min•Season 1Ep. 22
October is Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) awareness month. However, ADHD is a lifelong neurological disorder that poses continual challenges to attention, working memory, energy levels, cognition and behaviour to a reported 3.5-4% of the UK population all year around- including all students considering university! To acknowledge this, Jon and Tim (diagnosed with ADHD as an adult) welcome podcast royalty and fellow member of the ADHD community, Professor James Brown (Co-founder o...
Oct 17, 2023•46 min•Season 1Ep. 21
In this action packed episode (ahead of the University of Cambridge and University of Oxford deadline), we welcome and speak to three new students on the UniTasterDays Uni Guide Podcast student panel - Ishan , Nicola and Victoria . They have all recently graduated from either the University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford - and are here to share their lived experiences on several important topics, including: Why they applied? How to apply to Cambridge and Oxford? What the interviews an...
Oct 10, 2023•45 min•Season 1Ep. 20
Join hosts Jon and Tim in an enlightening conversation as we delve into the fascinating realm of conservatoire education for courses including music, dance, drama, musical theatre, film and production. Joined by a special guest, James Rew , the Access and Participation Manager at Leeds Conservatoire, this episode is a treasure trove of insights. Discover the heart of conservatoire education, including: A guide to conservatoires and their unique offerings. Embark on a journey through the diverse ...
Sep 27, 2023•34 min•Season 1Ep. 19
Join us for an insightful deep dive into the world of university life. Our guest expert, Jeff Chilton , Student Recruitment Officer at Aberystwyth University, takes the expert seat, alongside hosts Tim and Jon, providing a wealth of wisdom and insights. We're also joined by two members of the UniTasterDays student pane l. Anton, who offers reflections on his journey at the University of Kent, and Emma, sharing her experiences from the University of Birmingham. We explore a myriad of topics, incl...
Sep 06, 2023•43 min•Season 1Ep. 18
In this episode, Jon and Tim invite special guest Chris Rogers , Student Recruitment and Outreach Manager at the University of Chichester, into the expert seat. We take a comprehensive look at the university application journey. Embarking on the journey to university opens up a world of opportunities, but the path can sometimes seem daunting. In this episode, we delve deep into the intricacies of university applications, equipping both students and their support systems with valuable insights an...
Aug 22, 2023•31 min•Season 1Ep. 17
In this episode, Jon and Tim invite two special guests from two different universities into the expert seat for a session that provides explosive career advice for students! Hannah Allison , Careers Widening Participation Manager at Lancaster University, and Matthew Howard , Deputy Head of Student Careers at the University of Leeds, are leaders in the university careers space. We discuss why careers support at university is important, what support is offered, the additional assistance provided f...
Aug 09, 2023•41 min•Season 1Ep. 16
In this episode, Jon and Tim invite their most athletic* guest so far: Chris Mullen , Education Liaison Manager at Edge Hill University into the expert seat (*our evidence is that Chris's Dad was a professional footballer, and Chris studied a sports degree!!). Join us as we discuss the importance of making option choices and their role in university entry. We delve into various option choices, including the role of GCSEs, A-Levels, BTECs, and T-Levels when it comes to university entry. We even t...
Jul 27, 2023•31 min•Season 1Ep. 15
Universities understand the importance of reaching out to schools and colleges beyond their immediate vicinity. In this podcast episode, we explore the rise and rise of regional university representation with special guest Dylan Cozens, Regional Director, UK and Europe at Coventry University. Dylan is also a School Governor so brings this experience to the podcast as well. We talk about university events widely, such as open days and then focus on regional university representation. Not sure wha...
Jul 13, 2023•39 min•Season 1Ep. 14
