Tag: Student experience

How can you invest in your Studies?

Author Student Communications | Posted on

Have you ever taken the time to think about the considerable investment you are making by choosing to study at university? We’re not just talking about the money (although we know that’s significant) – it’s also the time, energy and effort that you are putting into your degree.   

We want you to focus on really maximising that investment, and make some choices which will help you get the most out of your time here at UWE. 

What simple things can you do? 

  • Attendance. Your course is the main reason you are here, right? And you are spending a lot of money for this teaching, so it doesn’t make sense to regularly skip classes. We know there might sometimes be reasons why you can’t make it onto campus, but try to plan your week to give you the best possible chance of attending those lectures.  
  • Engagement. It’s not enough to just turn up to lectures or teaching sessions, you need to really BE there. Be an active participant on your course and you really will see the benefits. What does this look like? Ask questions. Get involved in discussions. Do extra reading. Reply to emails. All of this will drastically improve your learning and help you get more out of your studies. 

Next steps? 

Even the most engaged students can always find more ways to improve their studies and expand their learning while they are at uni. 

  • Study support – Independent study can feel hard sometimes, and it’s completely normal to feel stretched and challenged by your course. There’s so much support available to you – reading and writing skills, tips on referencing, how to prepare for assessments. Whatever you need, you will be able to find someone who can help. 
  • Academic personal tutor – Your tutor is there to support and guide you through your course. Make the most of this contact and talk to them about any struggles you are having or any areas where you want to improve. 
  • PAL – Peer-assisted learning is a great opportunity to get help from someone who has been in your shoes. It’s usually a student on the same course as you, but in the year above, and they can mentor you and help with any bits of your studies you feel unsure of. 
  • Student Experience Coaches – If you are feeling overwhelmed, or you want help getting better at managing your workload or being more productive, then why not contact a Student Experience Coach? Book your free appointment on Infohub. 

Hopefully all that info has given you something to think about. Remember, you only get out of something what you put in (it sounds like a cliche, but it’s so true).  

You’ve made a huge investment to be here – make the most of it! 

Invest in your self
invest in your future

How can you invest in your Future?

Author Student Communications | Posted on

Have you ever taken the time to think about the considerable investment you are making by choosing to study at university? We’re not just talking about the money (although we know that’s significant) – it’s also the time, energy and effort that you are putting into your degree.   

We want you to focus on really maximising that investment, and make some choices which will help you get the most out of your time here at UWE. 

Start planning and preparing for your future now, so you’re ready to hit the ground running after graduation. 

It’s worth remembering that life as a UWE Bristol student gives you access to a huge range of support services and opportunities and it’s worth making the most of these. You’ve already paid for it, so take advantage of it!   

  • Careers and Enterprise – Make the most of our free support service. Your time at uni will fly by, and you want to be in the best possible position when you graduate.  
  • Start your Personalised Career Plan – Fill in a short questionnaire so you can receive tailored careers info, resources and events to help you start planning for your future. 
  • Look at LinkedIn courses – these are free for UWE Bristol students and are a great way of building your skills and enhancing your CV. 
  • Work experience and placements – Get first-hand experience to help you work out what career path you want to follow. 
  • Why not travel abroad? – Global experiences are a great way to expand your horizons, meet new people and develop skills you didn’t even know about. 
  • Use social media – Follow @UWECareers on Instagram to find out the latest updates on events, employer drop-ins and workshops. 
  • Innovation and enterprise – Thinking about starting your own business? Get advice and support to develop your enterprise skills. 
  • Volunteering – Use your talents and skills to give something back. 
  • Thinking about your CV? – Start thinking about your future by taking on roles and responsibilities which will not only help you develop and grow, but also look great on your CV. Looking to becoming a student rep, a student ambassador or joining the student consultation panel. 

Hopefully all that info has given you something to think about. Remember, you only get out of something what you put in (it sounds like a cliche, but it’s so true).  

You’ve made a huge investment to be here – make the most of it! 

invest in your self
invest in your studies

How can you invest in your Self?

Author Student Communications | Posted on

Have you ever taken the time to think about the considerable investment you are making by choosing to study at university? We’re not just talking about the money (although we know that’s significant) – it’s also the time, energy and effort that you are putting into your degree.   

We want you to focus on really maximising that investment, and make some choices which will help you get the most out of your time here at UWE. 

Growing as a person is a key part of coming to university. It’s an amazing opportunity to meet new people, find new passions and interests, and expand your horizons to find out who you really are and what you want from life. 

Make sure you are embracing all these free activities, events and opportunities. 

  • Centre for Sport – The free MOVE programme gives you access to more than 100 weekly exercise classes and sessions, so make the most of this fantastic facility.   
  • Centre for Music – Looking to learn some new skills? Want to make some new friends? Check out the huge range of opportunities available on campus – membership is completely free! 
  • Join a society – It’s so easy to find people with the same passions and interests as you. Take a look at the long list of societies available, and if you can’t find the perfect one for you, you can just start your own! 
  • UWE Events Diary – If you’re ever at a loose end, or simply looking to get out and meet new people, make sure you find out what’s going on at your campus. Whatever your interests, you’re sure to find something that suits you. 
  • Explore Bristol – You’re living in a vibrant, creative, edgy city. Don’t let that pass you by, get out there and explore everything it has to offer. 
  • Go global – Are you interested in travelling the world? University is a great time to look at what overseas opportunities are available to you. 
  • Download the Wisdom app – If you’re feeling anxious, stressed, or just need some inspiration to manage your wellbeing, the Wisdom app allows you to access resources and support 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 

Hopefully all that info has given you something to think about. Remember, you only get out of something what you put in (it sounds like a cliche, but it’s so true).  

You’ve made a huge investment to be here – make the most of it! 

Read more: How can you invest in your Self?
invest in your studies
Invest in your future

What does Netflix’s Adolescence tell us about male loneliness and mental health issues? 

Author Student Communications | Posted on

If you’ve watched the hit Netflix show Adolescence you’ll know the very real consequences of getting drawn into extreme misogynistic content online. 

These influencers and chatroom communities prey on people’s vulnerabilities, offering answers and solutions to complex issues that are so common amongst young people today.  

Loneliness. Low self-esteem. Anger issues. Depression. These sorts of feelings are completely normal and there is a wide range of support available to help you manage these without turning to potentially harmful content on social media. 

Loneliness and building your confidence 

Meeting people, making friends, forming relationships – all this can feel tricky, especially when you’re at university. The social skills needed to build a community around you aren’t always something that comes naturally to everyone. In fact, it can feel impossible at times. 

Getting out and about is key to making those connections, even if this means pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. If you experience social anxiety, or don’t feel confident in social situations there are some small steps you can take to overcome this and feel more confident.  

We’ve pulled together some top tips on how you can embrace the small talk when meeting new people. If you’re feeling lonely at the moment then don’t struggle without help. We have lots of information and support to help you. 

Too much time on social media 

If you’re starting to feel depressed, angry or frustrated about your life then it’s natural to seek out support online. 

So much of our life is now spent online, and social media and chatrooms can feel like an easy way to find like-minded people if you’re struggling with your in-person friendships and relationships. 

The risk is that some of these online communities can lead you to more extreme content, and before you know it your algorithm is feeding you videos that play on your anxieties and insecurities. 

If it’s starting to become a problem for you then take a step away. Speak to people in real life, reset your recommendations and actively protect yourself from content which is designed to make you feel worse in the long run. 

Mental health support 

We know that some men find it hard to reach out for mental health support, and that stereotypes and expectations can be really harmful.  

There are a number of support options available both through UWE and across the community, which cater specifically to men and their mental health. We’ve pulled together the best of these resources including local groups which offer a space for men to talk openly and support each other.  

You can also access the UWE Wellbeing Service for more structured mental health support if you’re suffering with anxiety, depression, feelings of low self-esteem and many other issues.  

There’s support for students with specific learning differences, such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADHD and autism, through the Access and Learning Strategies team.  

We also understand the additional pressures or challenges you might experience at university, if you have little or no family support, or if you are caring for ill or disabled family members. If this is you, UWE Cares can support you in a number of ways, from providing information and guidance, to specialist careers support and finance through our bursary and accommodation support. 

Whatever it is you are struggling with, there are support options available to you, both here at UWE and within our Bristol community. 

Student Experience Coaches on LGBT+ History Month

Author Student Communications | Posted on

More and more students identify as LGBTQ+. Each year, 40,000 LGBT+ students1 apply to UK higher education. Many take the opportunity of being at university to come out and explore their identities more broadly than they have felt able to do before.

This year’s theme for LGBTQ+ History Month is Activism and Social Change, and we can take this opportunity to remember all the incredible activists who have worked tirelessly to ensure that LGBTQ+ people enjoy the rights that they do today, without losing sight of all the work there is left to do.

Exploring a new identity and community can be an exciting time and it can also be a time of confusion and uncertainty. How do you connect with a new community to develop your sense of belonging?

Coaching can be a great opportunity to unpack your experience in a safe and confidential space, knowing that your identity will be respected and affirmed.

It can take a long time to find what feels like it fits, and that’s how we can help you to explore this further. Find out more about what coaching is, how we can help you and how to book a coaching session Student Experience Coaches – Study support | UWE Bristol.

  1. Next steps: UCAS report on LGBT+ students ↩︎

My career top tip

Author Student Communications | Posted on

by Chantel, Student Careers Coach

In my final year at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School studying Production Arts [Stage and Screen], I wanted to transition into a library career.

Many roles required a librarianship qualification, so I explored options and discovered UWE’s MSc in Information Management, which offered the necessary accreditation.

While researching jobs, I found UWE’s Graduate Library Traineeship. This two-year role provided full-time work, part-time study leaves, and sponsorship for the MSc fees. It was the perfect opportunity to gain hands-on experience, build networks, and develop professionally.

The application process

My theatre school experiences positioned me well for the role. A former manager’s advice, “If you’re ever invited to an interview, know that you’ve got the job; it’s just up to you not to talk yourself out of it,” inspired me to craft a strong application. Using the STAR method to structure my responses, I spent hours completing the application and submitted it just minutes before the deadline. It’s incredible to think how differently life could have turned out if I had missed it!

Interviews and preparation for the role and the MSc

The recruitment process included a longlist interview with a customer service scenario and a 10-minute presentation on librarianship. After being shortlisted, I attended a final 45-minute panel interview. I confidently showcased my STAR responses, and my preparation paid off as I was thrilled to be one of two candidates selected from over 120 applicants. The job offer included automatic enrolment in the MSc program, so I didn’t need to apply separately. Even if I hadn’t secured the role, I was committed to pursuing the MSc and would have sought an employer to accommodate my studies.

Reflections on my journey

Although my MSc is taking longer than planned – five years instead of the usual two – it has been incredibly rewarding. The flexibility of UWE’s structure, allowing me to study module by module and resit in the summer whenever needed, has been invaluable. Last year, I faced a setback when I didn’t pass two modules. Initially I was disheartened but I sought support through UWE’s Student Experience Coach service which helped me improve my time management, regain confidence and maintain my mental wellbeing. I’d encourage any student juggling commitments to explore this fantastic resource.

This journey has also opened doors to other opportunities on campus, including my roles as a Student Career Coach, Senior Student Life Assistant and Student Project Developer. Balancing work and study has been challenging but fulfilling, deepening my appreciation for lifelong learning. Each challenge has taught me resilience, self-compassion and the importance of seeking help when needed – lessons just as valuable as the academic knowledge I’ve gained.

Advice for future postgraduate students

Postgraduate study isn’t just about academics – it’s about building a foundation for your future career. Research your options, consider sponsorships or discounts, and use tools like the STAR method for applications.

Take advantage of UWE’s resources, from career coaching to academic workshops. Embrace setbacks as learning opportunities and make time to network and develop skills during your studies.

Conclusion

My journey to postgraduate study has been shaped by determination, happenstance, and great opportunities. Whether you’re exploring postgraduate options or have a clear plan, remember there are many paths to success. Take the time to explore – you never know what doors it might open.

Tips for managing your studies over the holidays

Author Student Communications | Posted on

If you’re heading home from the holidays, then you might need to build a new routine to allow you to take the time to rest and recharge, while still keeping on top of any studying you need to do.

Finding that balance can be really tricky, especially if you are someone who finds it difficult to self-motivate and make the most of scheduled study time so you can properly switch off and relax once the work is done.

Our Student Experience Coaches have been working with lots of student during this first semester, helping them unlock the skills they need to overcome any obstacles and manage their wellbeing.

Here they share some tools, tips and techniques that you might be able to use over the holidays to ensure you return in January feeling ready for the new term.

  • Action plan – creating an action plan can help you feel more control of your time and avoid overwhelm. If you break down tasks and create smaller deadlines, it could help make things feel more manageable.
  • Lists – writing things down can provide structure. Some people enjoy the “feel good” factor of ticking off tasks and reflecting on what they’ve achieved.
  • Rewards – building rewards into your timetable/planner can give you something to look forward too and provide a break from studying and university life.
  • Journaling – expressing your thoughts and feelings in one space is a helpful way to explore ideas.
  • Exercise – doing something that requires movement, even something simple like going out for a walk and being out in nature, can be a great way to manage your wellbeing.
  • Rest – planning in time to rest and recharge is important to enable you to return to studies fully focused and energetic.
  • Self-care – remember to prioritise your self-care. Identify activities that you find genuinely nourishing and relaxing.
  • Support – find the right support to help you at university, with your student life and studies. This could be specialist support, or just turning to your lecturer or your friends and family.
  • Be kind to yourself – Finally, remember to be nice to yourself. Acknowledge everything you’ve got going on and the progress you are making to manage your workload and wellbeing while at university.

The service will be closed from 24th December – 2nd January and drop-ins will not be available from 23rd December – 3rd January.

But if you would like to set some goals to manage your wellbeing and stress whilst at university, please get in touch with our Student Experience Coaches after the winter break to book an appointment. They can help you break down challenging tasks and create an action plan so you can stay on track.

My career top tip

Author Student Communications | Posted on

by Triss, Student Careers Coach

My role as a Student Career Coach marks my first work experience as an international student in the UK—a position I would not have secured without a clear understanding of my strengths and how they aligned with the role.

For this month’s Careers and Enterprise tip, I want to share how reflecting on your strengths can be a game-changer for your career journey!

Many people find it easier to recognise weaknesses than determining strengths. While improving on weaknesses is valuable, recognizing your strengths is equally essential. It helps define your career direction, pinpoint roles that suit you, and advocate your values to potential employers.

Personally, I found the career assessments in the Career Toolkit incredibly helpful in identifying what I excel at. Through those assessments, I discovered that effective communication, teamworking and adaptability were key strengths of mine. These skills were shaped by experiences like delivering class presentations, taking on leadership roles and studying abroad in the UK—a journey that has constantly pushed me out of my comfort zone.

Understanding these strengths helped me develop greater self-awareness and allowed me to highlight them confidently in my application for the Student Career Coach role. This clarity not only boosted my confidence but also demonstrated my suitability for the position to my employers.

Recognizing your strengths has practical benefits to your career journey and a clear understanding of what you’re good at, can do the following:

  • Enhance your CV and cover letter: showcase specific skills with evidence from your experiences.
  • Prepare you for interviews: see your strengths to craft impactful answers to common questions.
  • Strengthen networking conversations: present yourself with confidence and highlight your values to potential collaborators or employers.

Knowing your strengths isn’t just about self-awareness—it’s about turning them into opportunities.

If you’re unsure where to start, tools like the Career Planner, Personality Insight, Strengths, etc. in the Career Toolkit are excellent for self-assessment.

Take time to reflect, gather feedback, and consider how your unique strengths can open doors in your career journey.

Welcome to Wobble Week

Author Student Communications | Posted on

We know the start of university, or a new academic year, whilst exciting, can also feel a little overwhelming.  

If you’re feeling a little flat after the rush of Welcome and Freshers, and feeling a little uncertain about things, we’re here to let you know that this is completely normal. And it’s not just newbies who feel this way – everyone can feel a bit “What the hell am I doing?”, even if they’re familiar with uni life, campus… the lot!  

First year students – you might be missing home comforts or finding it difficult to adjust to a different kind of learning environment. Second years – you might be thinking “Woah, this year feels waaaay more serious than last year!” And for our international students, you may be feeling the impact of living in a new country. 

We refer to this time as ‘Wobble Week’ – a time when all students can feel a little unbalanced. Wobble Week runs from 4 November, and during this week there are lots of events and activities to help you feel more connected to our community. 

To help you feel less, well, wobbly, we can help you with everything from a chat about your mental health, signposting to support services, study support, and much more! 

However you’re feeling – it’s OK. We are here to support you. 

How to get Involved

Participate in Events: Join the various workshops and social events planned throughout Wobble Week. These activities are designed to equip you with skills and strategies to manage your time at University, or simply meet new people. 

Access Support Services: Explore the different support services available to you. From mental health and academic resources to student organisations, there are many ways to get the support you need. 

Connect with Others: Engage with fellow students, share your experiences, and support each other through the ups and downs of university life. Building a network of supportive peers can make a significant difference in your overall well-being.

Alcohol and blackouts: what’s happening in those lost hours?

Author Student Communications | Posted on

by Becky Risley

Ever woken up after a night out and can’t remember parts of the night? Or maybe you’ve had nights where whole chunks of time are missing? Sometimes we make light of these experiences or pass them off as joke, but they can be really worrying. 

So how much are students actually drinking and is it really a problem?

According to NUS SOS UK national data, 84% agreed that drinking too much too quickly can cut short a great night with 79% say they don’t like socialising with people who get very drunk and ruin the night for others.

Despite this however, 51% of those that were asked said that getting drunk means they will have a good night out and 38% say it can be difficult not to drink too much on a night out.

But what is an alcohol related blackout? And why

Alcohol-related blackouts are when you can’t remember things that happened while you were drunk. This happens because drinking too much alcohol can temporarily mess up the process of moving memories from short-term to long-term storage in your brain, specifically in the hippocampus.

There are two types of blackouts, based on how much memory is lost:

Fragmentary Blackout: This is the most common type. You might have patchy memories of events, with some parts missing. This is also called a grayout or brownout.

En Bloc Blackout: This is more severe. You can’t remember anything often for hours. The memories never form, so you can’t get them back.

When do blackouts happen?

Blackouts often result from binge drinking, which is can roughly be counted as 4 drinks for women and 5 for men within 2 hours. Science suggests blackouts usually start when your blood alcohol content hits about 0.16 percent, nearly twice the legal driving limit. At this level, your judgment and decision-making are seriously impaired, making blackouts really dangerous.

They’re more likely when alcohol enters your bloodstream quickly, like drinking on an empty stomach or consuming a lot fast. Women reach higher blood alcohol content levels faster than men, making them more prone to blackouts.

Blackouts can also occur at lower levels if you mix alcohol with other substances especially benzodiazepines.

My friend drank the same amount as me and remembers everything, why is that?

Our genetics play a big role on the likelihood of blacking out, some people are just more prone to it happening than others and everyone threshold for blackouts will be different.

Are there any long-term effects from having blackouts?

Other than the anxiety of not knowing what went on in those lost hours, research suggests that those who experience blackouts have a greater likelihood of having a dependency on alcohol late on in life. So, if you are finding you are regularly blacking out seeking support is recommended.

How can I avoid blacking out when drinking?

  1. Start Low Go Slow: drink slowly, avoid consuming large amounts of alcohol in a short period. This helps keep your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) from rising too quickly. Choosing lower alcohol drinks, such as lager tops, single spirits with lots of mixer or wine spritzers can help us pace ourselves.
  2. Eating is never cheating: having food in your stomach slows the absorption of alcohol, which can help prevent blackouts – simple as that! Eating before, during and after alcohol is always a good idea!
  3. Drink water: stay hydrated and reduce the overall amount of alcohol you consume by switching out every other drink for a glass of water.
  4. Just Say Know…your limits: everyone’s tolerance is different so it can be helpful to set yourself a limit of drinks/units before you go out for the night. Using app’s like the drink coach can help us keep track of how many drinks we have consumed.
  5. Leave the mixing to the DJ: combining alcohol with other substances, can increase the risk of blackouts.
  6. Buddy up: going out with friends who will support you to drink in a controlled way can make a big difference, make a plan and support each other to stick to it.

If you have more questions, need support or want to make a change to your alcohol use, just get in touch with me!

You can find out more about me and the UWE drug and alcohol service on our drugs and alcohol webpage.