Help! I'm Going To Uni

What if you could solve a problem and build a business around it? Holly speaks with Cardiff Met PGCE Primary graduate Will about going from primary school teacher to education entrepreneur. After starting as a supply teacher, Will built his confidence and secured a permanent role. But he soon spotted a problem: too much marking and not enough time.Will explains how he used AI to tackle the problem and went on to build his own education AI business. He shares practical advice on spotting opportunities, getting experience and turning an idea into a business.In this episode…00:25 Holly Meets Will00:46 Supply Teacher To Startup Business01:55 AI Marking Business02:29 Traction And Goals03:26 In The Real World Now04:01 First Step Into Teaching05:34 Business Idea Advice06:17 Standing Out In Applications07:13 Placements And Confidence08:04 Using AI In Job Searches09:13 When I Grow Up11:13 Mentors And Motivation12:40 Lightbulb Moment And Grants13:56 Quickfire Questions17:21 Why PGCE and Cardiff19:48 Career Goals20:28 Skills Spotlight: Problem Solving22:11 Student Life in Cardiff23:33 Campus and Societies24:50 Part-Time Work25:33 Wrap

How far would you move for your dream job? Holly speaks with Cardiff Met Dental Technology graduate Ellie about starting her career as a Dental Technician in Liverpool. She shares how networking at an exhibition led to a LinkedIn connection and a job opportunity.Ellie explains what it's like working in a fast-paced dental lab, combining digital design with creative skills. She shares practical advice on gaining experience, building a social media portfolio, preparing for interviews and putting yourself out there. Plus, how moving to Liverpool changed her life.In this episode…00:29 Meet Ellie - Dental Technician00:48 Graduation & Job Hunt Fears02:19 Moving For Opportunities04:15 What Dental Techs Do06:18 Placement: Fast-Paced Reality07:48 LinkedIn Portfolio Strategy09:58 Moving To Liverpool11:28 Interview Process Tips13:45 Being Yourself At Work15:26 Quickfire Questions18:07 Mentors and Motivation20:29 When I Grow Up21:40 Finding Dental Tech Path25:19 Career Goals26:48 Skills Spotlight: Adaptability28:50 Commuting and Social Life30:01 Missing Student Days30:32 Wrap

What does it really take to get a job after university? Holly speaks with Cardiff Met MSc Project Management graduate Fardous about building a career in the UK after moving from Saudi Arabia. He shares how he made the switch from civil engineering to project management and what he learned from applying for around 80 jobs.Fardous talks about improving his interview skills, building his CV through volunteering and internships, and gaining professional certifications. He also shares how Cardiff Met's Careers Service helped him prepare for interviews and how he progressed from Project Support Officer to Project Manager at the University.In this episode…00:22 Introducing Fardous00:46 Why Switch to Project Management01:37 Post Graduation Anxiety02:31 Mastering STAR Interviews03:31 Landing Cardiff Met Role05:12 Eighty Job Applications06:35 Staying Motivated07:51 Standing Out: Applications & Interviews09:27 Quickfire Questions12:50 Remote vs Hybrid Interviews13:58 Money Saving Tips14:13 Parents as Inspiration15:03 Career Path16:14 When I Grow Up17:40 Choosing Cardiff Met19:23 Part-Time Work & Studying20:29 Career Goals21:08 Skill Spotlight - Problem Solving23:04 Student Life in Cardiff23:45 Building the Bengali Society & Community25:23 Favourite Cardiff Restaurant26:01 Wrap

What if your first choice doesn't work out? Holly speaks with Cardiff Met Biomedical Science graduate Jemima about finding her career after missing out on her original plan to become a dentist. She got onto Biomedical Science through Clearing and says it was one of the best decisions she made.Jemima now works as a Senior Biomedical Scientist at the Welsh Blood Service. She talks about working in the NHS, finding her feet after graduation, and the twists and turns that led to her current role. Expect practical advice on applications, interviews and building experience, delivered with Jemima's brilliant dry sense of humour.In this episode…00:33 Meet Jemima00:52 Dentistry to Biomed02:33 Welsh Blood Service Role04:33 Work Culture and Routine06:04 Graduation Worries07:02 Horrific Microbiology08:25 Landing the Dream Job09:39 Job Search and Applications11:39 Interview Tips That Work12:40 Quickfire Questions15:56 When I Grow Up18:01 Motivation and Mindset19:17 Finding Your Science Path20:32 Clearing and Choosing Cardiff22:05 Accreditation and Career Goals24:15 Skill Spotlight: Adaptability25:50 Cardiff Student Life and Learning27:38 Wrap

How to secure a graduate job before you graduate. Holly speaks with Cardiff Met Events Management graduate Eliza about changing course, building confidence and gaining experience at university. She shares how she received a job offer while at Glastonbury, and how she now works as a Social Media Events Coordinator and podcast host at Kilroy Travel.Eliza explains how creating content, leading student societies and using LinkedIn helped her stand out to employers. Expect practical advice on navigating a competitive job market, building your confidence, and finding a career that's right for you.

How to land a dream placement as an international student. Holly speaks with Cardiff Met Public Relations and Marketing Management student Muskaan about gaining experience while studying in the UK after moving from Dubai. She shares how she secured a year-long social media placement with Disney Plus. She also talks about working on major campaigns, meeting famous faces, and how becoming Cardiff Met Students' Union Activities and Communities President boosted her confidence and leadership skills.Muskaan explains how she stayed motivated through dozens of applications, tailored every CV, and made the most of Cardiff Met's Careers Service. Expect practical advice on gaining experience, standing out to employers, and building your confidence before graduation.In this episode…00:00 Episode Teaser00:31 Meet Muskaan00:49 Post Uni Career Plans01:25 Job Market Worries02:07 Disney Plus Internship04:23 Landing The Placement06:04 Standing Out In Interviews07:02 Finding Hidden Opportunities07:52 Getting Experience Fast08:49 Quickfire Questions11:37 Who Inspired You12:41 Choosing PR And Marketing13:40 When I Grow Up15:33 Why Marketing At Uni16:28 Picking Cardiff Met18:08 Working While Studying19:41 Winning Students’ Union Election21:25 Skills Spotlight22:47 Student Life In Cardiff25:45 Wrap

How to build a business before you graduate. Holly speaks with Cardiff Met strength and conditioning graduate Jake about growing a successful coaching business while studying for his master's. He explains how creating content on Instagram helped him attract clients and what it's really like being self-employed.Jake shares practical advice on building an online presence, staying consistent and managing your time. He also talks about how Cardiff Met's Careers Service helped him launch his business, and why helping people matters more than chasing likes and views.In this episode…00:00 Episode Teaser00:26 Meet Jake00:50 Graduation Plans01:38 Choosing Masters02:58 Money Worries03:55 Running The Business04:46 Niche Rugby Clients06:14 Content Strategy08:17 Grow Social Channels09:28 Time Management Struggles10:34 Careers Service Help12:44 Entrepreneur Advice13:30 Quickfire Questions17:37 Jake’s Inspiration18:32 Purpose Beyond Numbers20:20 Finding A Career Path26:30 Skills Spotlight29:01 Cardiff Student Life32:34 Favourite Cardiff Spots33:07 Wrap

How an unpaid placement became a dream job in professional cricket. Holly speaks with Cardiff Met MSc Sport Broadcast graduate Bhavya Doshi, now Digital Content Producer at Glamorgan County Cricket Club. He shares how a placement led to a full-time role, why social media is one of the best ways into the sports industry, and what it's really like creating content for a professional cricket club. And of course all things cricket in Cardiff.Bhavya explains how Cardiff Met helped him build industry-ready skills, why gaining experience can matter more than getting paid at the start of your career, and how networking on LinkedIn opened new opportunities. Expect practical advice for anyone hoping to build a career in sport, media or digital content. And a good amount of chat about Cricket in Cardiff.In this episode…00:00 Episode Teaser00:27 Meet Bhavya00:55 Landing The Glamorgan Cricket Placement02:03 From Placement To Full-Time Job03:06 What A Digital Producer Does04:54 Course Skills And Mentorship06:33 Standing Out And Unpaid Internships08:51 Howzat - Cricket Basics09:45 Cricket Culture At Cardiff Met12:11 Training Grounds And Match Days13:12 From Cardiff Met To The Pros14:55 Cardiff Cricket Scene16:08 The Experience At Sophia Gardens16:38 Quick Fire Questions19:47 When I Grow Up20:48 Mentor - Alan Wilkins23:12 Choosing Cardiff Met24:44 Life In The UK26:16 Career Goal - Make Cricket Cool27:03 Skills Spotlight28:45 Wrap

Building a freelance creative career and being your own boss. Holly speaks with Cardiff Met graphic design and illustration graduate Katie about turning her passion for design into a self-employed business. She explains how she built her portfolio through personal projects and found clients through social media, especially TikTok.Katie also talks about navigating the uncertainty of freelancing, staying open to new opportunities, and how Cardiff Met's Centre for Entrepreneurship helped her get started. Expect practical advice on building a portfolio, finding clients, setting boundaries and making self-employment work.In this episode…00:00 Episode Teaser00:35 Meet Katie01:02 Navigating Life After Uni02:17 Going Freelance04:16 Finding a Design Niche05:14 Landing First Clients06:20 Managing Uncertainty09:07 Promoting Yourself on Socials10:13 University Entrepreneurship Support11:27 Freelance Advice12:47 Quick Fire Questions17:27 Cardiff Coffee Shops18:26 When I Grow Up21:36 Choosing Cardiff Met23:36 Switching to Illustration25:34 Careers and Clients28:21 Skills Spotlight30:32 Student Life in Cardiff32:49 Wrap

There’s no single route into a creative career. Cardiff Met graduate Duke Al shares his story. A spoken word poet, author and creative practitioner, Duke turned his passion for writing into a freelance career spanning live performances, commissions, workshops, talks and community projects.He shares how writing became an outlet for managing OCD from a young age, why he didn’t share his work publicly until his twenties, and how a volunteering trip to Zambia helped him discover his purpose. Duke also talks about his type 1 diabetes, freelancing, personal branding, social media and the realities of building a creative career on your own terms.In this episode…00:00 Episode Teaser00:36 Meet Duke Al01:05 Poetry Career02:33 Power of the Pen Workshops03:43 Clients and Commissions05:05 Hip Hop to Self-Therapy05:31 Living With OCD08:06 Sharing Poetry Publicly09:38 Quitting for Creativity12:16 Freelance Support Network14:49 Social Media Reality Check16:43 Motivation and Passion17:26 Zambia Turning Point20:40 Poem - What gets you of bed in the morning22:11 Quick Fire Questions24:38 Skill Spotlight27:20 Master’s in Creative Writing30:26 Wrap

The Degree Apprenticeship. What is it and how does it work? This week Holly is joined by Jibreel, a first-year Applied Software Engineering degree apprentice at Cardiff Met, to break down what a degree apprenticeship really involves. Jibreel shares his weekly routine with Legal & General and university. He talks about the balance between study and work, and the benefits of being paid and getting vital work experience at the same time as getting a degree.Jibreel explains what the application process is like (CV, online tests, video interview and assessment centre), and his top advice to cast the net and apply widely for practice.In this episode…00:00 Episode Teaser00:21 Holly introduces Jibreel00:40 Degree Apprenticeships Explained01:34 Weekly Schedule03:50 Application Process Breakdown06:42 Finding Apprenticeships Early07:59 Why Cardiff and Cardiff Met08:36 Quick Fire Questions11:33 When I Grow Up12:23 Who Inspired You13:21 Finding Career Direction16:12 Balancing Work and Uni18:01 Accommodation18:31 Skills Spotlight21:05 Student Life in Cardiff23:12 Wrap

How do you land a job after university when you keep getting rejected? Holly is joined by Cardiff Met MSc Food Science and Technology graduate Shruti. They talk about job hunting anxiety, ATS / AI CV filtering, and why keywords matter. Shruti reflects on moving from India to Cardiff, the unexpected culture shocks she overcame as well as finding student life very welcoming. She shares her experience in the food industry so far. Starting as a Quality Assurance Lead at Celtic Oriental and then unexpectedly gaining the opportunity to move into management.

Motivation and having the right people around you can make the difference when university feels tough. Holly speaks with Kyla, a BSc Psychology and MSc Health Psychology graduate who studied as a mature student and single mum. They talk about balancing parenting with university, managing imposter syndrome, and staying focused on clear goals. Kyla tells her story of launching her business Lighter Brighter Minds during her master’s, with support from Cardiff Met’s entrepreneurship team, bootcamps, and student networking.In this episode…00:00 Teaser00:16 Holly introduces Kyla00:35 Balancing Mum and Uni Life01:51 Turning Trauma into Purpose03:43 Building Lighter Brighter Minds06:26 From Imposter Syndrome to a First07:29 Transition into Entrepreneurship09:14 What is Lighter Brighter Minds11:13 Advice for Single Parents12:27 Quick Fire Questions16:13 Warm Chocolate16:33 When I Grow Up18:16 Who Inspires You19:04 Purpose and Parenting20:10 Returning to Study21:53 Seeing the Response22:44 Why Cardiff Met26:01 Skills Spotlight: Motivation28:30 Mature Student Life30:25 Wrap

Want to know what a placement year is really like? And how it can shape your career before you graduate? Holly is joined by Fin, a fourth-year Business Management (Marketing) student at Cardiff Metropolitan University. He did his placement at Enterprise Mobility and continues working for them, now as Campus Brand Manager. Fin talks about his role and how he discovered the placement through the Cardiff Met Careers Fair. He shares how the placement boosted both his confidence and communication skills, and how it helped him focus on his final year.In this episode…00:00 Teaser00:19 Welcome00:39 Inside the Placement Year01:20 Plans After Graduation01:49 Working For A Big Corporate02:33 What Enterprise Mobility Does03:18 Finding Placements and Careers Fairs03:47 Standing Out and Networking Tips05:12 Quick Fire Questions07:52 When I Grow Up08:56 Who Inspired You09:52 Finding Your Path10:47 Why Uni?11:43 Career Support And Cardiff Met12:31 Ultimate Career Goal13:08 Skills Spotlight: Communication14:58 Rugby And Student Life17:08 Growing Into Adulthood18:45 Placement Tips And Networking19:45 Wrap

How do you go from a first-week university commentary gig to travelling the world and commentating for World Rugby? Holly is joined by Cardiff Met Sport Broadcast Master's graduate Rob. He shares how saying yes to opportunities, like being a runner for Amazon Prime at the Autumn Nations, led to bigger roles through hard work, networking and doing a good job. Rob talks about finding his path on the course, building connections, and creating a personal brand portfolio that helped him land his dream work.Rob’s story is incredibly inspirational and not to be missed!In this episode…00:00 Episode Teaser00:40 Intro01:02 Post Uni Feelings01:35 Biggest Worries02:22 Rob’s Career So Far03:15 First Rugby Commentary04:28 Amazon Prime Runner Gig06:19 Rugby Sevens & Working In Spain08:54 From Stats To Commentary10:49 Networking Over CVs12:00 Work Hard, Love It13:48 Quick Fire Questions16:47 Making Friends At Uni17:57 Mentors and Inspiration20:18 When I Grow Up21:03 Tornado Chaser Story22:52 Choosing Sport Broadcast24:33 Applying and Getting In27:41Personal Branding28:11 Portfolio Instagram Tips30:04 Life at Great Days Golf33:32 Hands-on Learning34:57 Wrap Up

Holly chats with India, a third-year Product Design student at Cardiff Met, about how she found the courage to switch paths and follow her passion. India shares the benefits of living at home during university, including the ups and downs of making friends, and the importance of taking care of your mental health. She also discusses how switching universities helped her find her people, build her confidence, and discover the right course.In this episode…00:00 Teaser00:21 India's Academic Journey02:06 Living at Home and Mental Health05:00 Quickfire Questions12:43 Student Confessions – Super Noodles14:36 Learning to Cook16:04 University Decisions and Pressures17:37 Why Cardiff Met?20:31 Entrepreneurial Challenges24:30 Future Plans25:59 Outro

Holly chats with Kayla, a Master’s Sport Rehabilitation student at Cardiff Met, about what it’s really like moving abroad for university. From the nerves of leaving Canada to finding accommodation and joining the dance team, Kayla shares her experience of studying in the UK. She also talks about her background in kinesiology and future career aspirations in athletic therapy. Also, Holly really loves custard.In this episode…00:00 Teaser00:29 Kayla's Journey from Canada to Cardiff01:40 Nerves and Accommodation03:17 Making Friends and Social Life04:18 British Slang06:01 Academic Pursuits and Career Goals09:45 Quick Fire Questions12:08 Advice for Starting Uni13:05 Ask Holly – Custard16:10 Food Cravings17:02 Studying in the UK19:18 Living in Cardiff20:58 Outro

Finding independence and her love for Cardiff. Soph, a third-year Textile Design student at Cardiff Met, joins Holly to share her experience of moving from a small village to city life. Living in halls, food shopping, transport and joining the Christian Union. Soph reflects on how university has shaped her.In this episode…00:00 Teaser00:17 Meet Soph: A Third-Year Textile Design Student01:46 Adjusting to University Life03:17 Living in Halls04:10 Studying Textile Design07:18 Quick Fire Questions09:23 Student Confessions11:16 Making Friends in Halls11:46 Deciding to Go to University13:22 Choosing Cardiff Met14:54 Becoming a Student Ambassador16:53 Post-Graduation Plans20:20 Life in Cardiff21:29 Outro

What’s it really like studying in the UK? Fakhar travelled from Pakistan to study Data Science at Cardiff Met, and in this episode, he joins Holly to share his story. From first-day nerves to finding independence, he discusses settling into life in Cardiff, making friends through university events, and why stepping out of your comfort zone can change everything.In this episode…00:00 Episode Teaser00:20 Meet Fakhar: An International Student's Journey00:41 Adjusting to Life in the UK01:33 Settling In and Making Friends04:53 Accommodation and Independence06:32 Quick Fire Questions09:34 Student Confessions11:13 Challenges of Moving Away from Home12:01 Studying Data Science13:57 Exploring Cardiff16:48 Making Friends as an International Student17:52 Diversity in Cardiff19:04 Outro from Holly

From living in halls to whiplash on nights out and managing study stress, Amy talks honestly about the highs and lows of student life. She’s a third-year Graphic Design & Communication student at Cardiff Met and joins Holly to tell her story. Amy shares her favourite Cardiff hangouts and how opportunities at university have shaped her career plans.In this episode…00:00 Episode Teaser00:14 Introducing Amy00:31 Pre-University Nerves and Saying Goodbye02:17 Making Friends and Settling In04:03 Living in Halls05:17 Course Dynamics and Friends06:39 Pre-Drinks08:18 Ask Holly12:16 Quickfire Questions18:38 University Life and Advice23:11 Career Plans25:33 Favourite Things to Do in Cardiff27:14 Outro from Holly

Swapping the Golden Gate Bridge for Cardiff Castle. Royal, a first-year Software Engineering student at Cardiff Met, shares his journey from California to Wales. Clicking with course mates, finding the skateboarding community and surviving halls. Royal talks about the highs, the challenges, and his ambition to launch a tech firm helping neurodiverse students.In this episode…00:00 Episode teaser00:20 Introducing Royal01:34 Adjusting to University Life04:01 Living in Halls05:10 Ask Holly: Mattress Dominoes07:40 Quick Fire Questions11:05 Student Confessions13:05 First Year and Making Friends13:31 Choosing Software Engineering14:54 Robot Dog15:39 Finding Part-time Work17:40 Graduation Goals18:13 Skateboarding in Cardiff19:32 Outro from Holly

From third place at the World Cheerleading Championships in Florida to Clearing and Cardiff Met. Stephanie’s journey to university is anything but typical. Now a third-year Brand and Marketing Management student, she joins Holly to chat about navigating Clearing, smashing her goals, and how to make the most of uni life (whether you planned it or not).In this episode…00:00 Episode Teaser00:17 Meet Stephanie00:31 Applying Through Clearing01:57 Starting Uni in Your 20s04:02 Accommodation and Making Friends04:52 Quick Fire Questions07:27 Air Fryer Rizz10:07 Student Confessions13:18 Deciding on University14:33 World Cheerleading Championships17:18 Balancing Cheer and Study19:14 Work Placement and Career Goals23:05 Ideal Day in Cardiff25:36 Outro from Holly

Worried about making friends or choosing the right course? Liv’s been there. Now in her third year of Health and Social Care at Cardiff Met, she joins Holly to chat about her journey. From first-day nerves and living in halls, to finding her people and co-founding the Feminist Society. They dive into the power of student communities and why saying “yes” to things can change everything at university.In this episode…00:00 Episode Teaser00:12 Meet Liv: A Third-Year Health and Social Care Student00:27 Pre-Uni Nerves and First Impressions01:05 Settling into Halls and Making Friends03:03 Studying Health and Social Care04:23 Adapting and Thriving in University06:18 Ask Holly: Nose Ring09:37 Quick Fire Questions12:48 Your Perfect Date13:14 University Journey and Career Choices19:25 Starting the Feminist Society22:27 Reflections on University Life23:03 Outro from Holly

Nervous about starting uni? So was Ash. Now she’s smashing it as a Product Design student at Cardiff Met. From joining the ski society and lifelong friends, to balancing work and deadlines. She chats with Holly about uni life, her inspiring design project for cancer patients, and what she wishes she’d known before starting. Don’t miss one of the wildest student confessions we’ve heard yet.In this episode…00:00 Episode Teaser00:16 Introduction from Holly00:30 Starting Uni02:21 Living in Cardiff04:06 Choosing Product Design06:23 Student Confessions10:32 Quick Fire Questions13:12 Why Go to Uni?13:57 Finding Yourself at Uni15:32 Studying Product Design16:31 Part-Time Work and Placements18:08 Plans After Graduation18:35 Skiing Society and Making Friends19:59 Cardiff Nightlife21:06 Outro from Holly

Aarya, an international student from Mumbai, joins Holly to talk about her journey to Cardiff Met. Studying her MSc in Project Management, she shares what it was like adjusting to student life in the UK, from finding your community to student accommodation and why giving yourself time to settle matters.In this episode…00:12 Introduction from Holly00:28 Why the UK and Cardiff Met?01:09 First Impressions and Challenges01:46 Settling In and Finding Community03:12 Building Confidence and Getting Involved04:58 Accommodation05:53 South Asian Community at Cardiff Met07:54 Quick Fire Questions10:59 Student Confessions: Embarrassing Lecture Moment13:21 Choosing Project Management18:29 Life in Cardiff vs. Mumbai19:59 Favourite Activities and Food in Cardiff21:20 Outro from Holly

Alex’s love of sport has taken him across the world. From studying in America to finding his home at Cardiff Met. In this episode, he chats with Holly about what it’s really like to study MSc Sport Broadcast, compete on the university tennis team, and build a future in sports media.If you’re into tennis, thinking about studying sport, or just want to hear some brilliant student stories, this one is for you.In this episode…00:14 Introduction from Holly00:45 Tennis, America and Cardiff Met02:41 Starting University and Finding Yourself05:50 Student Confessions: Handcuffs08:40 Quick Fire Questions11:14 Why University?12:45 Cyncoed Campus = Sport Everywhere13:30 Performance Sport at Cardiff Met15:10 Work Placements and Career16:11 Part-time Work17:51 Cardiff Met Tennis Team19:10 Life in Cardiff vs. Brighton19:55 Favourite Places in Cardiff21:43 Outro

Maddie started uni on a sports course and competing with the Cardiff Met gymnastics team, but one year in, she made the bold move to switch to law. Now a third-year LLB Law student, she joins Holly to share her journey, from moving into halls and starting university, to some of her favourite places in Cardiff.In this episode ……00:07 Introduction from Holly00:23 Starting uni and living in halls01:25 Sport Coaching to Law, Maddie’s switch02:45 Moot. What does ‘moot’ mean?!04:51 Do you know what LLB stands for?05:55 Quick Fire Questions09:14 Student Confessions12:21 Why Maddie went to uni13:04 Why Cardiff Met?14:49 Work placement module 15:59 Taking ‘the bar’17:45 Working as a gymnastics coach19:44 Gymnastics team socials21:20 Go to spots in Cardiff23:43 Outro

Say yes to everything - within reason! Celyn reflects on her growth and independence at uni whilst making friends and blowing her budget. The Fashion Marketing student is the Met Marketers Society President and says it’s a great way to meet new people. Coming from a small Welsh village, Celyn talks about culture shock and building confidence in Cardiff.In this episode…00:20 – Introduction from Holly00:33 – What Celyn was most excited about01:02 – Welcome Week01:30 – Studying Fashion Marketing02:18 – Arriving at accommodation and making friends03:58 – Going on to campus for the first time04:48 – Moving to Cardiff05:44 – Quick fire questions07:39 – Societies (President of The MET Marketers)08:31 – Quick fire questions continued11:22 – Celyn’s background11:56 – Why university and why Cardiff MET?13:10 – Plans after graduation13:35 – Favourite thing about being a student14:05 – Favourite places on campus and in Cardiff14:57 – Societies15:41 – Funny uni story17:55 – Part-time work18:14 – Money saving tips20:07 – Outro

Moving away from home, joining the vibrant Cardiff Met art community and discovering herself, Fine Art student Lauren shares her story. With a background in competitive figure skating and a passion for abstract art, she offers advice on being confident, kind, and your best self. Lauren talks about the buzz of the degree show and organising the after party.In this episode…00:20 – Introduction from Holly00:36 – What Lauren was most excited about01:08 – First week of uni and making friends02:35 – Why Fine Art?04:19 – Arriving at accommodation06:13 – First time on campus07:20 – Quick fire questions11:40 – Lauren’s background and why uni12:46 – Why Cardiff Met?13:33 – Lauren’s inspirations14:34 – Studying for a Masters16:06 – Grad show17:55 – Best thing about being a student18:37 - Favourite places to go in Cardiff19:17 – Societies19:43 – Money and budgeting20:37 – Favourite memory from third year21:44 – Outro

Bob wythnos mae Elliot yn trafod gemau rygbi Dynion a Menywod Met Caerdydd. Ffilmio, y cyfryngau cymdeithasol a diweddariadau byw. Newidiodd ei gwrs er mwyn dilyn ei freuddwyd o fod yn ddarlledwr chwaraeon. Yn byw gartref ac yn astudio Cyfryngau Chwaraeon, mae Elliot yn rhannu ei brofiadau yn y brifysgol a gyda'r Gymraeg yn y brifysgol. Yn y bennod hon… 00:00 – Rhagflas 00:12 – Cyflwyniad gan Celyn 00:28 – Am beth roedd Elliot yn teimlo’n fwyaf cyffrous? 01:13 – Wythnos Groeso 01:54 – Astudio Cyfryngau Chwaraeon 03:24 – Newid cyrsiau ac astudio tra’n byw gartref 04:33 – Cwestiynau Cyflym 08:55 – Cefndir Elliot 10:14 – Pam Prifysgol? 11:35 – Arweinydd Cyfryngau Rygbi Met Caerdydd 13:14 – Gobeithion ar ôl graddio 13:48 – Y Gymraeg ym Met Caerdydd 15:26 – Straeon gorau'r brifysgol 17:09 – Diweddglo

Sport Media student Ioan shares how rugby has shaped his uni experience. He talks about resitting second year helped build his resilience and confidence. Ioan recalls his star-struck moment of meeting course leader and podcaster Steff Garrero from The Socially Distant Sports Bar, and how it inspired him to dream big about his career plans. Shownotes In this episode …… 00:15 – Introduction from Holly 00:29 – What Ioan was most excited about 01:19 – Moving into halls 01:45 – Inspiration for studying Sports Media 02:33 – First impressions of accommodation 03:16 – Starstruck on campus 04:45 – Settling into uni life 05:16 – Quick fire questions 09:24 – Ioan’s background 10:14 – Why university and why Cardiff MET? 11:09 – Plans after graduating 11:31 – Best thing about being a student 12:06 – Favourite places on campus and in Cardiff 13:06 – Playing sport at uni 14:25 – What is the Cardiff clash? 15:21 – Cardiff nightlife 16:27 – Challenges during uni 18:03 – Outro

Balancing high-energy cheerleading and the precision of Cyber Security. Self-confessed ‘nerd’ Phoebe chats FBI shows, ethical hacking, and making lifelong friends through Cheer and Dance. She shares how university life is all about balance, fun and finding your passion. In this episode... 00:00 – Teaser 00:13 – Introduction from Holly 00:28 – What Phoebe was most excited about 01:05 – First week of uni 01:56 – Computer Security course and career prospects 04:04 – Arriving in accommodation 04:48 – Going on to campus for the first time 05:25 – Quick fire questions 08:14 – Cheer and Dance 08:57 – Why university? 10:17 – Why Cardif MET? 11:29 – Best thing about being a student 12:50 – Places on campus and in Cardiff 13:41 – Cheerleading socials and training 18:19 – Outro

Anysha’s energy is infectious! Listen to her story of living at home, changing universities, and her top foodie tips. From growing up in a big family-oriented household to embracing university and Islamic Society, Anysha shares her journey of studying Primary Education. In this episode …… 00:00 – Teaser 00:14 – Introduction from Holly 00:30 – What Anysha was most excited about 00:56 – Welcome Week 01:50 – Studying Primary Education 03:25 – Living at home whilst studying 04:21 – Campus for the first time 06:21 – Quick fire questions 09:47 – Top tip for making friends 13:37 – Anysha’s background 14:38 – Why university and why Cardiff MET? 16:08 – Future plans 16:09 – Best thing about being a student 17:26 – Societies 18:48 – Possessed toilet 20:48 – Favourite places on campus and in Cardiff 22:35 – Outro

Born in Kathmandu and raised in the US, Vibhor is well-travelled! Now, he calls Cardiff his ninth city. The international student knew Aviation Management was the right career path for him, and he felt “a calling from Cardiff Met.” V and Holly talk student discounts, Welsh cakes, and his sky-high passion for aviation. In this episode …… 00:00 – Teaser 00:17 – Introduction from Holly 00:32 – What Vibhor was most excited about 00:51 – Welcome week 01:36 – Studying Aviation Management 02:50 – Moving to Cardiff and accommodation 03:41 – Arriving on campus 04:24 – Quick fire questions 10:38 – Vibhor’s background 11:55 – Why university? 12:27 – Why Cardiff Met? 12:58 – Future plans 13:25 – Favourite thing about being a student 13:51 – Campus and Cardiff 14:45 – Making friends 15:39 – What is Aviation Management 17:01 – Outro

Every week Elliot covers Cardiff Met’s Men’s and Women’s rugby games. Filming, social media and live updates. He changed courses to follow his dream of being a sport broadcaster. Living at home and studying Sport Media, Welsh speaking Elliot shares his experience. In this episode …… 00:00 – Trailer 00:15 – Introduction from Holly 00:28 – What Elliot was most excited about 00:57 – Welcome Week 01:32 – Studying Sport Media 02:12 – Changing courses and living at home 04:21 – Going on to campus for the first time 05:22 – Quick fire questions 08:42 – Elliot’s background 10:21 – Why university? 12:13 – Media Lead for Cardiff Met Rugby 13:36 – Summer golf media internship 14:27 – Being a student 15:07 – Places on campus and in Cardiff 18:01 – Outro

Leoni just started university one month ago. From Welcome Week to accommodation, group chats and her first lecture, the Illustration student shares her experience. In this episode …… 00:11 – Introduction from Holly 00:26 – First year Leoni and her first month 00:50 – Welcome week 01:20 – Going into your first lecture 01:54 - Course experience so far 02:16 – What drew Leoni to study Illustration 03:12 – Accommodation 04:36 – First time on campus 06:09 – Moving away from home 07:42 – Quick fire questions 11:41 – Background 12:32 – Why university? 13:38 – Why Cardif MET? 14:30 – Future plans 15:14 – Best thing about being a student 15:36 - Favourite places on campus and in Cardiff 16:31 – Societies 17:10 – Part-time working 17:32 – Leoni’s illustration style 19:54 – Outro

From world travel to life as a twin, this week, our host Holly meets International Tourism Management student Sophie. She shares her experience of arriving on campus, Cardiff Met Hockey, and studying after a gap year. Show notes In this episode …… 00:12 – Introduction from Holly 00:28 – What Sophie was most excited about 01:03 – Stand out moment in first week of uni 01:35 – Choosing Tourism Management 02:51 – Arriving at accommodation 04:22 – Hockey 04:43 – First time on campus 06:12 – Quick fire questions 11:34 – Being a twin 13:41 – Starting uni after a gap year 16:17 – Plans after graduation 17:45 – The best thing about being a student 18:04 – Favourite places to go in Cardiff 19:01 – Favourite society social 21:07 – Part-time working 22:21 – Outro

During Freshers' Week, Fashion Design student Liv embraced her "extroverted era," knocking on doors to make new friends. Before starting uni, her biggest worry was finding her social circle, but she threw herself into it and found her best friend (Holly). When stress hits, Liv turns to baking and cleaning, much to the delight of her flatmates! Her advice? Be your authentic self and be confident.In this episode ……..00:00 – Introduction from Holly00:39 – Feeling anxious, making friends and leaving home04:36 – Nerves before stating her degree05:14 – Relationships at home and making new friends07:18 – Settling into uni halls07:59 – Quick fire questions11:39 – Liv’s background and going to uni13:22 – Why she chose Cardiff Met13:55 – Meeting Holly for the first time15:45 – Future plans17:02 – Best places to go in Cardiff18:05 – Tips on studying, work-life balance and being kind to yourself20:04 – Lecturers 21:50 – Being a student ambassador23:07 - Outro

Professional Policing student Ben was nervous about moving to Cardiff from Llanelli, but he made loads of friends straight away. He loves the city so much that he’s planning on staying after he graduates. Ben teaches Holly some Welsh including the longest place name in Europe, Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch. In this episode …… 00:00 – Introduction from Holly 00:29 – Nerves before starting uni 02:35 – Adapting to a new lifestyle, budgeting and supermarkets 03:59 – Making friends 06:15 – Learning new skills and being a student ambassador 08:50 – Quick fire questions 12:57 – Why Ben wanted to go to uni and choosing policing 16:01 – Why Ben chose Cardiff Met 18:15 – Favourite places to go in Cardff 19:28 – Ben teaches Holly some Welsh 21:44 - Outro

Growing up with autism, Cory felt higher education was out of reach. But, with a change of school and with support from his friends, family and the University, he’s soon to graduate with a degree in Computer Games Development. Cory joins Holly to chat about his inspirational journey and the challenges he’s overcome. In this episode… 00:00 – Introduction from Holly 00:29 – Having autism and going to uni 02:08 – Cory’s educational journey 04:22 – First impressions of Cardiff Met 06:27 – Quick fire questions 11:26 – Living at home during uni 13:00 – Personal challenges and support 14:14 – Cardiff Met is a big family 15:52 – Plans after graduation 17:11 – Favourite places to go in Cardiff 18:19 – Outro

Just before graduating, computing student Bradley shares his Cardiff Met journey with Holly. From running for Students’ Union President to founding the Climbing Society and roller skating in Cardiff's beautiful parks, Bradley’s story is full of valuable insights and tips for making the most of university. They also discuss the role of the SU, the importance of societies, and key differences between college and university life. In this episode …… 00:00 – Introduction from Holly 00:41 – Not the first time going to uni 01:16 – Going to uni as an older student 02:09 – Starting the Rock Climbing Society 03:01 – Freshers and first year 03:26 – Moving to Cardiff and starting his computing degree 04:27 – Budgeting, and going from working to being a student 06:21 – Quick fire questions 10:05 – SU President and societies 12:10 – Societies explained 13:03 – Students’ Union explained 14:09 – Returning to uni and Cardiff Met 15:33 – University lecturers v college teachers 17:45 – Favourite places to go in Cardiff 21:03 - Outro

International student Amanda wasn’t fazed by moving to a new city and instantly fell in love with Cardiff. Applying through Clearing left her heart pounding, but she admits she was being “a bit dramatic”. Amanda and Holly talk about moving into halls, chat up lines and the importance of accredited courses. In this episode …… 00:00 – Introduction from Holly 00:36 – Moving to the UK and how Amanda felt before starting uni 01:53 – Boarding school experience 03:04 –How living in different countries made moving to uni easy 03:50 – Why she chose to move to Cardiff 04:22 – Applying, Clearing and Cardiff Met 05:31 – Making friends, cooking and moving into halls 09:15 - Quick fire questions 13:43 – Outdoor activities and songwriting 15:30 – Why Amanda decided to go to uni 17:36 – Study tips 20:14 – Going out and Cardiff nightlife 21:31 – Cardiff Met uni halls 23:11 – Outro

“Terrified, alone, really overwhelming.” Emmie was the first in her family to go to uni, but she found ‘her people’ at Cardiff Met. The conspiracy theorist loves a bit of organised fun and starts her week off with ‘wine night Mondays’, where all the crazy shenanigans happen! Produced by Carnival Content In this episode …… 00:00 – Introduction from Holly 00:30 – How Emmie was feeling before starting university 00:54 – Moving away from home for the first time 02:13 – Preconceived ideas she had before starting uni 03:59 – Considering dropping out, but then Emmie met ‘her people’ 05:34 – Differences between uni and her college experience 06:17 – Emmie and Holly ‘finding themselves’ at university 08:45 – Quick fire questions 14:50 – The Moon landing was fake 15:35 – Why Emmie wanted to go to uni 16:22 – Why she chose Cardiff Met 17:03 – Future plans 17:55 – Being student ambassadors 19:32 – Favourite places to go in Cardiff 20:26 – Study tips 21:57 – Budgeting tips 23:49 – Outro

"Everyone wants to make friends in Cardiff”, which helped ease Nirav’s anxiety when moving from Kenya for uni. The computer science student’s hilarious obsession with eggs keeps his budget ‘chef’s kiss’. Nirav found his passion for kickboxing here, as well as ‘extra’ roles in the likes of Doctor Who! Warning, infectious laughing from Holly throughout! Produced by Carnival Content. In this episode …… 00:00 – Introduction from Holly 00:29 – Moving to the UK from Kenya and how Nirav felt before starting uni 02:18 – Making friends at uni 03:45 - Nirav’s obsession with eggs, plus budgeting and food 07:40 – Quick fire questions 12:49 – Nirav talks about his background and Kenya 13:32 – Why he wanted to go to uni. 14:16 – Why he chose Cardiff Met and the sports facilities on campus 15:27 – Future plans 17:07 – Microsoft internship 18:32 – Favourite places to go in Cardiff 19:38 – Part-time work and balancing it with uni, as well as creative casting and being an extra in Doctor Who 22:10 Outro

Completing her dissertation left Biomedical Science student Claudia feeling like an ‘academic butter knife’. But that didn’t stop her from partying ‘just a little bit’, bingeing Grey’s Anatomy and hosting games nights. The cookery lover unwillingly survived Freshers’ Week on packet meals and takeaway pizza, and she couldn’t believe what her flatmates managed to burn. Produced by Carnival Content. In this episode …… 00:18 – Introduction from our host Holly 00:33 – How Claudia was feeling before going to uni and leaving home. 01:13 – The nerves before moving into student accommodation and starting the course. 02:00 – Moving to Cardiff 05:13 – Living in uni halls accommodations, cooking and flatmates. 06:58 – Quickfire questions. 10:34 – Claudia’s background and why she prefers living in a city. 12:49 – Why she chose Cardiff Met. 16:19 – Cardiff life and where to hang out. 19:02 – Claudia’s plan after graduation. 21:35 - Outro from Holly