The Better Uni Choices Podcast

Not sure what you should be doing over summer? Just want to relax, but have a niggling feeling there are a couple of things that you should probably get out of the way?This week we look at just two or three things that you can usefully do over summer to keep your journey to university on track.Secondly, a little reassurance that it is never too late to change your mind.And finally, why aiming for the perfect job might not be a smart move.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

Researching and applying to university in the UK takes time. Typically around 18 months in fact.This week we have a close look at how that 18 months will unfold, through a full UCAS timeline, starting now, and finishing next autumn as you start your course.Secondly, we have a quick look at what to do if you can’t make a specific university Open Day, but want to visit anyway.And finally, we learn about the games our minds play on us.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we ask the question: is “find your passion” really a good way to choose a course? Or is there a better way?Secondly, we have a look at the amazing inspiration that can be found at art and design degree shows up and down the country during June.And finally, we learn that you really don’t need to have it all figured out after all.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we look at a hugely significant new initiative by UCAS to help demystify entry grades for applicants: known as “Entry Grades Data (Beta)”.Secondly, you know when you have a question about the UCAS process that you just can’t see the answer to in the standard information? Turns out the answers might be easier to find than you think!And finally, we learn a bit about just doing your best.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we attempt to demystify some of the crazy jargon used in university degree descriptions.We hear about Jumpstart University, a fantastic resource to help you prepare for your studies at university.And we learn about the single biggest problem in communication.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we look at the importance of building universal transferable skills while at university, and why you really want to find your specific super-skills.We look at some great resources for estranged students.And we discover the truth about taking the impossible leap.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we look at something super-important for all of you who are heading into your last term at school: building a little slack into your life!We look at the very best explainer of that most complex of topics: how your student loan actually works.And we finish with action, the antidote to anxiety.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

Welcome to a slightly different edition of #betterunichoices.Over the last month or so I’ve been working hard on a whole suite of new materials, so instead of the usual format, this week I’d like to tell you all about my new online course, Podcast and written guide; all designed to help you to write your UCAS Personal Statement.I mention several links in the Podcast, these are:Go to the course: https://www.betterunichoices.com/how-to-write-your-personal-statementWatch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOk0wHkDaD7zcZDP0vl8AyJ6alN_XSZDUListen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6x2fMXtzWqwfs0H5WV4Lm9Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-write-your-ucas-personal-statement-a-better-uni-choices-podcast/id1738414357Download the guide: https://www.betterunichoices.com/s/How-to-write-your-UCAS-Personal-Statement-2nd-Ed.pdfYou can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we have a close look at university admissions tests, to make sure you know everything you need to know about the tests you might need to take if you are applying to university next year.We also check out some amazing video diaries from two students at the University of Edinburgh.And we find out the importance of both actions and feelings, and why one without the other can be a problem!You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we have a look at all the different options for accommodation as you head off to university, including guarantees and application deadlines.We try to break down some of the complications and misunderstandings around foundation courses.And we hear a very wise man’s definition of happiness.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

After last week’s introduction to fees, loans and grants, this week we look at how to budget and how to manage your money while at university.We consider one very good reason why you should never, ever leave applications of any type to the last minute.And we learn about hats, haircuts and tattoos, and what they can teach you about decision making.The link to the survey by ‘Save the Student” is:Student Money Survey 2023 resultsAnd you will find the blog about managing your money here:The London Budget: An international student’s taleYou can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we make an abrupt 180 degree turn, from last week’s ancient Roman philosophy, to one of the most critical and practical challenges for all students: understanding student finance.We find out about UCAS Discovery Exhibitions, which start this week.And we learn why education should not be seen merely as a hoop for you to jump through.The links to the various student finance websites that I refer to in the podcast are:Student Finance EnglandStudent Awards Agency for ScotlandStudent Finance Northern IrelandStudent Finance WalesUKCISA International Student Advice and GuidanceYou can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we follow up one of last month's Podcasts; the one about about career happiness. And this time, we take a look at two more critical aspects of happiness: resilience and stoicism.We also look at the impact of taking an EPQ on admissions.And we hear about what happens if you develop a passion for learning.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we look at why some universities are so ridiculously hard to get into. Spoiler; it’s not about how hard the course is.We remind ourselves that UCAS Extra opens very soon!And we are introduced to some stoic thinking by a Roman Emperor.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we take a look at UCAS Extra and Clearing, both of which could be really important options for you if things don’t go quite as you expect.We also take a first look at university funding for UK students.And we hear about prestige and how it can warp your beliefs.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we look at how to make your final UCAS choices, narrowing from five, to two universities.We look at two excellent resources to help you prepare for your big move to university.And we look at a simple model for making life-size decisions: just be happy, smart and useful!You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we look at parental pressure and what this has to do with your career happiness.We also look at what to do if a university treats you badly during the admissions process.And we hear a gem of an idea from actor Hugh Laurie.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we look at something a bit off-beat: university branding.Now I’m very aware that in 25 years of working in universities I’ve never had a single student show the remotest interest in university branding.But that’s what makes this newsletter a bit different, right? Because if you want to find a university that matches your values, and fits your personality, there is 100% something to learn from the way universities brand themselves.We also learn a super-important fact about the UCAS deadline.And we hear an interesting philosophical take on what education is really for.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we look closely at university rankings and league tables. What are they? What do people in the sector think about them? And are they of any help to you?We also look at an amazing website that can help you work out how to make a real difference in your career.And the penny drops on an unbelievably simple, but massively important idea about choosing a career and a course.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we have a look at who is actually driving your university choices, and ask four questions which will help keep you honest.We have a look at why ‘pressure selling’ by universities is not OK.And we hear from Banksy on taking initiative.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we learn all about what it means to have a growth mindset, and how it really is critical as you learn and develop.We hear about Uniscoops, a rather wonderful initiative from a couple of Oxford students.And we hear some pretty challenging advice from Mark Manson, author of “The Subtle Art of not giving a F*ck”.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week, we look at three techniques that can help you study smarter, but not harder, for your mock exams.We look at a super useful website for those unsure of their tuition fee status.And we find out why it is not normally a good idea to be the smartest person in the room.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we look at UCAS Applicant Visit Days; how they differ from Open Days, and how to make the very best of your visit.We also have a look at what to do if there seems to be an error in your admissions offer.And we find out that sometimes making our own mistakes isn’t the only way to learn.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we look at hard data and official statistics behind the idea that university will get you a good job.We discover a new, hidden superpower to help you get better grades: sleep.And we hear about the paradox of resilience.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we ask whether going to university will get you a good job. And if that’s not guaranteed, what exactly will university give you?We look at whether you are really more likely to get a place by applying twice to your favourite university.And we look at the importance of surrounding yourself with the right kind of people.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we take a dive into why you are planning to go to university. What are the good reasons, the bad reasons, and what might just be the best reason of all!We also check out a fantastic resource from The Russell Group.And we learn about what all the top achievers have in common.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we look at how to get the best possible feedback on your UCAS Personal Statement.We look at how universities might make very different admissions offers from those stated on their website.And we get some inspiration from the incredible Malala Yousafzai.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we look at the increasing problem of students not completing their degrees, and how you can avoid becoming one of them, with some self-care awareness, some financial planning, and some basic good decision-making.We also look at some important UCAS application basics, and hear about the importance of being uncomfortable.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we talk about The Russell Group. It may be every Head Teacher’s dream to have as many of their students as possible go to Russell Group universities, but are they really the ‘top’ universities in the UK? What is the substance behind the reputation?We also have a quick look at Zero Gravity, a start-up powering students from ordinary backgrounds into top universities.And we finish with a universally positive thought from Jake Humphrey, TV presenter and all round top bloke.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we take a full, in-depth look at university interviews. Quite simply, the more you know, the better prepared you can be!We look at why it’s almost always a good idea to apply early.And we hear about a special ability you can get from education.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week our main story steps away directly from the university application process. For better or for worse, most people view university as a route to a better job. And jobs need skills. So what could be more important than understanding exactly what skills employers are looking for so you can make sure you develop them at university?We then look at a small hack in the UCAS application form that might just help if things go wrong.And finally a simple quote about what it really means to be educated.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we have a look at preparing a portfolio for Art and Design - and all those other related creative courses.We check the UCAS deadlines, and discuss whether you need to meet them.And we finish with a thought from Mark Twain all about reading.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we take a closer look at how universities make admissions decisions, and find out “Just who are Admissions tutors anyway?”.We discuss whether there are any benefits from leaving some UCAS choices blank until later in the year.And we find out exactly what you learn from falling over.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week, we ask the question: How ambitious should you be with your UCAS choices? How do you turn all of that research you’ve done into a sensible list of five courses for your UCAS form?We look at how Data Protection affects your right to see your UCAS reference.And we hear some smart advice from a successful entrepreneur on getting what you want from life.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week, we talk university Open Days.I use my 20 years of experience organising open days to help you see beyond the obvious, to make sure you see, do and ask all about the really important stuff!We also discover a simple truth about universities and email, and we hear from one of the finest politicians ever to walk the planet.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we look at two different options for those of you who don’t have access to expert advice and support in your school: we look at choosing an Independent Education Counsellor and we look at applying through a student recruitment agent.And we learn the importance of making mistakes… quickly!You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we look at how to get the very best from working with your school or college’s university counsellor.We have a quick look at the UCAS tariff.And finally, we discover a true superpower!

This week I give you the run down on my top 10 learnings from attending a University of Cambridge Open Day earlier in the summer.In addition, we look at the importance of knowing your predicted grades, and we learn the essentials of doing great work!You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week I give you the run down on my top 10 learnings from attending a University of Oxford Open Day earlier in the summer. We learn that grades are not everything. Not by a long shot.We also find out what one of the main barriers to learning is.And it’s not what you might expect.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we hear from Warren Buffett, who has a piece of advice that sounds like it would be impossible to follow. Except it isn’t, and I’m living proof. We learn what to do if you are applying to university and have special needs. And we hear about the difference that just one hour a day can make.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we attempt to embrace the chaos of trying to make your choice of university. We examine why having a fall-back option is crucial. And we learn about the two types of people in the world.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

In this episode we explore a little bit of Japanese philosophy together with a brilliant way of working out if your planned career could give you the sense of purpose you are looking for. For those of you who haven’t found that perfect career yet, we find out about a super-simple (and uncannily accurate) careers quiz. And we learn what’s more important than university.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we ask question whether league tables and student reviews can really tell you what is the best university for you. We discover an amazing resource for those of you who are into sport. And we hear some very simple inspiration from a young entrepreneur who just interviewed the Prime Minister.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we discover a simple, but brilliant idea from James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, which might just help you get started on your UCAS Personal Statement. We learn when to apply for a deferred entry if we are thinking about taking a gap year. And we find out how to rise above the ordinary.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

In this episode we look at how you can make best use of ChatGPT if you are using it to help with your UCAS Personal Statement. We hear about about The University Guys, who can help you discover everything you need to know about study overseas. And we learn the single most important lesson in communication from Simon Sinek, all round marketing guru.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

This week we have a look at super-curricular activities; what they are, and why they are so helpful and important. We also learn about Clearing, and how to find the confidence sweet spot.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

In this podcast we take careers advice from Dave Grohl, discuss your five UCAS choices, and hear some wisdom about how to love life.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

In this episode we complete the Top 20 Personal Statement top tips countdown, we discover a super-easy way to get all of your questions answered by real, live, current students, and we finish with some sage advice from a man who made chocolate.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

In this week’s podcast we look at Virtual Open Days and compare them to in-person events. I’ll give a little nod to my friends at unitasterdays.com for their excellent site. And we’ll finish with a wonderful thought from 19th Century Russian Philosopher and Writer Friedrich Nietzsche.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com

In this, the very first podcast from betterunichoices, we cover the first ten of our Top 20 Personal Statement tips, signpost a fantastic resource for finding out about what it’s like to study different subjects at university, and provide a little bit of inspiration from Wendy Alexander, former Scottish Labour Leader.You can also read loads of my articles, download free materials, and sign up to my weekly newsletter at:www.betterunichoices.com