This July, I will be graduating with a bachelor’s degree, which feels surreal and unbelievable how fast three years went by. One thing that is for sure, I am leaving UWE with lots of memories and new experiences from all the opportunities I had as a student, a Student Career Coach and an IT Support Assistant.
My recommendation to students is to make use of all the resources available to you. Never say no to new opportunities, this is your chance to expose yourself to new experiences, make mistakes and find what you love to do and what you are best at! You never know where one “yes” might lead, so take the leap and avoid the regret.
Honestly? I don’t have everything figured out yet. I’m actively job hunting, keeping my options open, and trying not to panic about it, which is easier said than done! But working in the Careers Lounge showed me first-hand that most students graduate with the same exact feelings, and that eventually everyone finds their own path.
Besides my personal projects I have been working on for this summer, I am excited to be taking a break to rest, enjoy the summer and prepare for a new stage in life. I am writing this blog with high hopes that by the time you see this I will have secured a graduate role or possibly be pursuing a master’s degree.
Isa, Economics
It’s hard to believe how quickly the last three years studying Economics have passed. As I close this chapter, I am excited about what comes next and proud to be starting a graduate role in audit at a financial services firm in Bristol this September, where I will also be studying towards the ACA qualification to become a Chartered Accountant.
For now, my plan is simple: enjoy the summer, take a well earned break, and recharge after an academically intense final year.
Looking back, I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunities UWE has given me throughout my degree. Securing my graduate role was made possible through the UWE STRIVE internship programme, which I applied for during my first year. The experience not only helped me develop professional skills and confidence but also introduced me to a career path I had never previously considered, giving me valuable industry insight and a clearer understanding of the opportunities available after graduation.
I would also like to highlight my time working as a Student Careers Coach, a hugely rewarding part of my university journey over the last two years. It helped me strengthen my communication skills, connect with students from a wide range of backgrounds and disciplines, and gain a first-hand insight into all the support, programmes, and events available to students.
But my UWE journey is not quite over yet. This summer, I will be travelling to Kefalonia, Greece, with the Go Global team to take part in a conservation project helping to protect sea turtles, an experience I am incredibly excited about and a fantastic way to round off my time as a UWE student.
If I could offer one piece of advice to current students, it would be to stay open minded and make the most of every opportunity that comes your way. You never know where a single application, conversation, or experience might lead. Some of the most defining moments of my university journey came from saying yes to something new, even when it felt outside my comfort zone.
Amina, English Literature
I went into my third year of university feeling quite unsure about what I was going to do next. Although I knew I wanted to work in publishing, I was also considering continuing my education and pursuing a master’s degree. I quickly realised I did not want to go straight into another degree after graduation. I decided to hold off on applying for graduate jobs until I had finished all my assignments. Now that I have completed my degree, I feel much more confident and clear-headed about my plans for the future.
This summer, I will continue my volunteer position as an Inclusivity Officer with the Society of Young Publishers South West branch, while also working a temporary summer job here in Bristol. I am working on securing an entry-level role in publishing and continuing to build my creative portfolio.
My role as a Student Career Coach has been fundamental in transforming the way I approach applications and think about my career. It has allowed me to develop skills in coaching, adaptability, and relationship-building, while giving me more confidence in my own career decisions. Upon reflection, the role has had a significant impact on how I approach this next chapter after graduation.
We hear a lot from students and graduates about how tricky it is to know when and how to utilise AI in your career development.
This guide will help you recognise where AI can add value and save time and where it’s best to stick with traditional methods!
Use AI to:
Get started
Facing a blank page at the start of making an application, CV or cover letter can be daunting, so using AI to give you a basic structure and template is a good time saver and gets you off the mark.
Edit and review
Most employers use software to score applications/ CVs etc and they will pick up on spelling, grammar and typos which could result in an unsuccessful application. Using AI to check for spelling, punctuation and grammar errors is really helpful, it can also help you stick to word limits and add more impactful language.
Assess suitability for a role
AI can be great to quickly generate options – feed in information about your skills, qualifications, likes, dislikes, interests and values and see if it can provide some ideas on roles that would suit you. Remember it’s just working off algorithms and doesn’t know you personally, so don’t assume it’s got it right, but it’s a good way of generating ideas, then you can continue to hone it if it’s coming up with ideas that aren’t a good fit.
Help prepare for interview
From giving you a schedule of preparation, possible questions and tips on techniques, there are loads of ways AI can help you prepare for interviews.
Perfect the STAR method
If you haven’t heard of this method (also known as the STAR technique) then get on Google right now, as it’s a game changer for both applications and interviews. It’s basically a formula for giving good examples that score well in recruitment processes, but it can be tricky to master – write out a STAR example and ask AI to assess it, or if you’re new to STAR, ask it to help you understand how to utilise this very helpful technique!
Research companies
Company research is key in several areas of careers – from working out which companies you might want to work for, to including company information in cover letters and talking about your fit at interview. Some websites make it easier than others to look into a company, but AI can usually give you a good summary in seconds that will help you assess and demonstrate your fit with them.
Don’t use AI
To do it all
As a graduate (and human being) your experiences, skills and attributes will be so much richer, more interesting and compelling than what AI will come up with. Applications/ cover letters etc created entirely by AI are unlikely to get you an interview or job, as it will be too generic, plus it’s easy for employers to spot where AI has been used.
To cheat technical assessments
Employers are already implementing software to detect use of AI in assessments, so you may get caught, but even if you don’t, getting a job that you can’t do is not a good outcome! Practice assessments and give them a real go yourself to reflect your true skill level.
To get answers in an interview
AI is great for interview prep, but using it in real-time to answer interview questions is not a good idea. At best, you won’t be engaging well with the interviewers if you’re looking at a screen and, as it’s pretty obvious if someone is doing this, you could well be eliminated from the process.
With the assumption it’s right
Although exceptionally clever and helpful, AI is in its infancy and isn’t right all the time!
It basically just summarises a collection of data/ information from across the internet and not everything on the internet is accurate or creditable. Cross-reference information with reputable sources of information such as Career Toolkit and Prospects.
Without thinking about your data
AI platforms hold your data for a period of time and once information is out there, it’s hard to control or get back. Try not to include personal data within CVs/ application checks for this reason, or at least read the platform’s privacy and data handling statements to ensure you’re happy with them before including this information.
The start of the academic year can be a busy time as you get settled into student life at UWE Bristol.
This handy guide features some of the most commonly-asked questions to support new and returning students. And remember, if you still need an answer to your question, submit an enquiry on My Student Life.
After you enrol in MYUWE, you’ll be able to access your timetable. Once enrolled and providing timetables have been published, they will show in MYUWE 3 working days later. Your Starting Block timetable will appear automatically.
New students: If you’ve uploaded a photo to MYUWE, your card will be ready 2 working days later from the campus you study at, unless otherwise advised.
I’m confused by the room numbers – how do I find the right room?
If it says on your timetable you’re going to room 2S706, then you’re looking for 2 – Level 2; S – S Block (all blocks have a block letter outside the entrance); 706 – room number. If you have any problems finding your way around, use this campus map.
If I have a question about something where can I go?
You can find an answer or submit an enquiry on My Student Life. Staff at our InfoPoint will also be happy to help you. You can find it in D Block – 1D11.
Life at City Campus 🎨
Where do I catch a bus to town?
We recommend catching buses from Blackmoors Lane rather than anywhere else as they are much more frequent there.
How do I get between Bower Ashton, Arnolfini and Spike Island?
There’s no UWE parking at Arnolfini or Spike Island, so you might want to consider public transport, cycling or walking. Check out this handy cycling map for guidance. If you need help getting around Bower Ashton you can use this map or our interactive map.
Can I park at Bower Ashton?
There’s very limited parking at Bower. If you’re going to park here, you need a permit. If the car park is full, you can try Ashton Court just up the hill (although that’s not free). There’s no UWE Bristol car parking at Arnolfini or Spike Island – you’ll need to use public car parks.
If I have a question about something where can I go?
You can find an answer or submit an enquiry on My Student Life. Staff at our InfoPoint will also be happy to help you. The Bower Ashton one is B Block, opposite the Art Shop. There’s also one on the fourth floor of the Arnolfini.
How can I print?
You can print ordinary things like A4 black and white via Pharos. You’ll be given £15 on your account at the start of the year.
If you want to print something more specialist, visit the Digital Print Bureau in 0C008.
Where can I use specialist software?
There are loads of opportunities for you to access specialist software, depending on what you need it for. This includes the library, and specialist computer suites in D Block, G Block and B block at Bower Ashton, as well as software at the Arnolfini and Spike Island.
Where can I buy art supplies?
Go wild in the Art Shop! You get an £80 materials allowance each year and you can use it at the Art Shop or the Digital Design Studio.
I’ve lost something – where might it be?
Everything makes its way to the Security office in F Block, check here first! Or email uwecard@uwe.ac.uk to find out if something is there.
Life at Glenside 🏥
I’m so confused by the room numbers – how do I find the right room?
If it says on your timetable you’re going to room 1F06, then you’re looking for 1 – Level 1; F – F Block (all blocks have a block letter outside the entrance); 06 – room number. If you have any problems finding your way around, use this map.
How do I order my placement name badge?
New student: If you’ve completed your online registration, a placement name badge will be ordered for you and it’ll be issued at one of your teaching sessions before you start your simulation skills sessions.
Returning student: If you need a replacement placement name badge, email the team and they’ll order one for you and email you when your badge is ready to collect.
How do I order my placement uniform?
If you’ve completed your online registration in MYUWE, you’ll be emailed details of how to order your placement uniform during induction week. If you’ve registered and haven’t received the email, contact the Information Point.
Are there showers and changing rooms at Glenside?
Yes! These can be found in 1E06 and 1E09. You can ask Glenside Reception staff for a code to access the rooms – you’ll need to show your student ID card.
Are there student lockers at Glenside?
Lockers for short term use are available in the changing rooms in 1E06 and 1E09. To hire a locker for long term use, please email travel.plan@uwe.ac.uk to request one.
I’ve just started my course at Glenside – I applied for the NHS LSF Training Grant, when will I receive my first payment?
You’ll receive it in November, if:
you started your course in September
you’ve completed your student online registration.
We’ll confirm your attendance to the NHSBSA in early November to release the funds to you. It can take up to 10 working days for payment to be processed once we’ve confirmed your attendance.
I have a timetabled teaching session in room 0SC014 at Glenside – where is it?
0SC014 is located at the back of the Glenside Student Centre (old Student Union) building. It is the big brown wooden building located near car park 10.
How do I contact the Accommodation Office at Glenside?
Glenside Accommodation Service office is located near the Hub in 1H29. Reach them here.
How can I contact Occupational Health Service at Glenside?
If I have a question about something, where can I go?
You can find an answer or submit an enquiry on My Student Life. Staff at our InfoPoint will also be happy to help you. You can find it in Glenside Library in D Block.
Your Course 🎓
I already feel like my course isn’t right for me? Can I switch?
Please don’t rush into a decision, it sometimes takes a while to settle in to university life. First, chat to your programme leader or your academic personal tutor and explain to them what you’re struggling with. They can offer support and guidance. If you’d like more in-depth advice about your options, you can get in touch with a Student Support Adviser.
The Students’ Union runs a student rep system, and ideally look for one student rep for every 25 students on your year of study on your course. They are usually chosen at the start of the academic year, so speak to your programme leader about this if you haven’t already received information about it.
I’m struggling with my course? I feel like I’m behind with the work and need some support.
Use the resources of the UWE Bristol Student Money Service. They have plenty of online information as well as an enquiry form to support and advise you. There are additional resources on Money and Finance, including an enquiry form for tuition fee issues.
My rent is really high and I can’t afford it/I’m struggling with money. What can I do?
Firstly we advise students to apply for all the funding they are eligible for from Student Finance and then apply for the Student Support Fund. Many students also choose to take on part-time work alongside their studies, and sign up to Blackbullion for free money education.
I haven’t managed to find anywhere to live. Who can help me?
Don’t panic – there’s lots of help out there to make sure you find somewhere to live. The Students’ Union can support you, so check out their advice pages.
I’m struggling with my housemates and I really want to move.
I need some help for my mental health. Where can I get the support I need?
If you’re struggling with your mental health and wellbeing then please don’t hesitate in reaching out for support. Download the Wisdom app, which offers live chat and video calls with counsellors. Also check out our Wellbeing Service webpage which includes a range of self-help resources and guidance.
I’m concerned about my drug or alcohol use at the moment, and really feel like I could do with some help.
UWE Bristol does not condone or condemn the use of drugs including alcohol; we are focused on providing students with the knowledge to be safe and feel supported. We operate a policy of harm reduction that prioritises the welfare and wellbeing of our students and wider community. We have a free Drugs and Alcohol Service if you would like support from a professional.
I’m looking for support following sexual assault?
We have an Anti-Sexual Violence Service here at UWE Bristol which provides a non-judgemental, inclusive and confidential safe space for you to seek support if you have experienced sexual trauma of any kind, even if you don’t want to report something.
Disability Support 🫱🏼🫲🏾
I have a disability and feel nervous about how this will be managed during my time at university.
Please don’t be nervous, there is a whole range of support available to you. If you haven’t already done so, make sure you have disclosed your disability to the Disability Service. This Disability Support Guide covers everything you need to know.
I am neurodivergent, and would like to know what support is available to me.
I want to start thinking about my future career, as well as looking for part-time work or internships while I study. Who can help with this?
There are so many opportunities available here for you at UWE Bristol:
You can find part-time and term-time roles that work around your studies by visiting the JobShop.
InfoHub is your first stop for careers advice, job listings, and help finding internships.
I want to start thinking about my career in the creative industries – how can I do this?
Learn how to talk about your creative skills and experience in a way employers understand. We offer regular sessions to explore freelancing, running your own business, building your CV, covering letters, and confidence. UWE Careers & Enterprise Padlet
Use our Showcase website to develop your online presence and portfolio.
This award specifically celebrates teams of students and staff who join forces to deliver campaigns or initiatives that make a genuine, positive impact on student life.
The judges were looking for true partnership—projects where student insights and staff expertise combine to create something powerful. The Student Drug & Alcohol Steering Group did exactly that…for the second year in a row!
Why we won: The Ketamine Campaign
While the group works hard year-round to keep our community safe and informed, it was the recent Ketamine Campaign that truly stole the spotlight.
The initiative was highlighted by the judging panel for making a tangible, life-changing difference to student lives. By focusing on harm reduction, education and safety the campaign met students exactly where they were and provided them with what they needed.
A true student-staff partnership
What makes this win so special is how the work gets done. The Student Steering Group brings together a diverse mix of student representatives and university staff.
Want to get involved?
This award belongs to everyone who engaged with the campaign, shared the resources and looked out for their mates. The Steering Group is always looking for fresh perspectives to help shape future initiatives.
