The Student Experience Podcast

In this episode, Shaunagh and Lily welcome Your Money Adviser, Carl Christie to talk everything Talk Money Week. Carl shares his insights into managing money during university, discussing common financial challenges students face and offering guidance on budgeting, saving, and balancing part-time work with studies.

We explore practical tips for students, from tracking expenses to setting achievable savings goals, and Carl provides advice on how to make smart financial choices to reduce stress. He also highlights the support available through university resources, offering valuable insight for students navigating financial independence.

For more information on Talk Money Week, check out our additional resources below:
 

• Talk Money Events 
• Talk Money Week - Money and Pensions Service
• Your Money Team at the University of Chester

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In this episode, Shaunagh and Jonny welcome local adventurer Alex Staniforth to mark World Mental Health Day by exploring the positive impact of the outdoors and adventure on mental health. Alex shares his personal journey, discussing the challenges he has faced and how spending time in nature has played a crucial role in his mental well-being.

We talk about practical ways students can integrate outdoor activities into their daily lives to manage stress, from exploring local parks to taking trips further afield. Alex also highlights the support available through charities like Mind Over Mountains and offers valuable insights on overcoming setbacks.

For more information on World Mental Health Day which this year, takes place on Thursday 10th October 2024 check out our additional resources below:

• Mind Over Mountains
• World Mental Health Day
• University of Chester Events for World Mental Health Day on Shoutout

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In this episode, we are joined by your brand new Chester Students' Union Officer Team, Lily (President), Adedayo (VP Education) and Summer (VP Student Life) to discuss welcoming students to our the new academic year. The officers share top tips and advice on how new students can navigate the exciting and sometimes overwhelming journey of starting university. Together, we discuss essential tips for settling in, making connections, and balancing academic life with personal wellbeing during those crucial first few weeks.

Our officers share practical advice on everything from getting involved in campus life to managing homesickness and staying organised with academic work. We also highlight the various events and activities available during Welcome Week, with a special focus on how international students can adjust to life in a new country.

This episode will help you gain valuable insights from those who’ve been in your shoes, and discover how to make the most of your university experience from day one!

Links to Resources

• Welcome to UoC
• Student Support Information
• Chester Students' Union Website
• Welcome Week Timetable (University of Chester) 
• Welcome Week Timetable (CSU) 

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In this final episode of the 2023-24 academic year, Shaunagh and Jonny recap the podcast's journey and share exciting plans for the future. This episode is unique as it doesn’t feature a special guest but instead looks back on the highlights and top tips from the past year. 

Shaunagh and Jonny talk more about

• Behind-the-scenes insights, including the challenges and funny moments of hosting a podcast.
• A recap of the top tips shared by guests, covering topics such as self-care, money-saving, embracing student diversity, and educating yourself about topics you're not familiar with.
• In addition, they answer some listener questions and reflect on what they’ve learned and enjoyed most about hosting the podcast this year.

Tune in for a nostalgic look back and a glimpse into what's coming next! Shaunagh and Jonny will be back in September for Season 6 of the Student Support Podcast! 

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In this episode, we welcome Sandra Hughes (Student Experience Projects Manager) to celebrate Refugee Week and discuss the vital support for sanctuary-seeking students.

Sandra explains the terminology around displaced persons and shares the importance of using inclusive, non-judgmental language. We delve into the challenges faced by sanctuary-seeking students and how universities can be of support, including practical strategies like our Sanctuary Scholarship.

We discover what it means to become a University of Sanctuary, the role of a Student Action for Refugee group in advocating for displaced persons, and the significance of Refugee Week. Sandra shares inspiring stories and initiatives and offers actionable steps for supporting sanctuary seekers and engaging in Refugee Week activities.

Tune in for valuable insights learn how you can make a difference!

Additional Resources 

• Join the Student Action for Refugees Podcast
• University of Sanctuary
• University of Chester - Sanctuary Scholarship Information 
• The Helena Kennedy Foundation (HKF)
• Refugee Education UK
• Student Action for Refugees
• Chester Borough of Sanctuary
• Asylum seekers, refugees and forced migrants Cheshire East
• Race and Equality Centre (CHAWREC)
• Schwab and Westheimer
• Displaced Student Opportunities UK
• City of Sanctuary - Chester
• The Big Read for Refugee Week - Sanctuary Reading List 
• The Swimmers Film 

Follow University of Chester Student Shout Out on:

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In this episode, we sit down with Jo (Disability Support Officer - ASC Specialist) to delve into the topic of autism acceptance. We explore the challenges faced by individuals on the autistic spectrum, the importance of fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding, and practical strategies for creating inclusive environments.

Drawing from her experiences in supporting individuals with autism, Jo shares insights into the broader societal implications of autism. She debunks some common misconceptions surrounding the condition as well as sharing strategies for promoting inclusivity at University and beyond. 

Whether you want to better understand autism and enhance inclusivity or know about what support is available, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice. Tune in to learn how you can contribute to building a more accepting and supportive society for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Links to Resources: 

• National Autistic Society 
• University of Chester Disability and Inclusion 

Books Discussed

• Strong Female Character - Fern Brady 
• Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime - Mark Haddon 
• Speed of Dark - Elizabeth Moon 

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Join us in this insightful episode as we chat with AJ, a student with a multitude of differences, including disability, gender identity and sexual orientation. AJ shares their personal journey navigating university, offering valuable insights and tips for fellow students. From finding community to advocating for inclusivity, AJ's story is one of resilience and authenticity. Listen to gain an understanding of intersectionality and discover resources to support diverse identities on campus.

Additional Resources

- University Mental Health Day Events
- Believe It Coaching
- Wheelchair Basketball
- University of Chester LGBTQ+ Support (Internal Only)
- University of Chester Disability and Inclusion
- Cheshire Students' Union Societies

Follow University of Chester Student Shout Out on:

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In this episode, we chat to Carl (Student Money Adviser at the University of Chester) and Tom (Partnerships Developments Coordinator at Step Change Charity). We delve into the topic of debt and debt management. We get valuable insights on the challenges associated with debt, strategies for effective debt management, and the broader implications of debt on individuals and society.

As part of the discussion, Tom shares his expertise in navigating the complexities of debt, offering valuable perspectives on financial literacy and how we can reframe discussions about money and debt. Carl, drawing from his experiences in Student Services, provides insights into the emotional and psychological aspects of dealing with debt and the importance of seeking support.

Whether you're someone struggling with debt-related issues or simply interested in understanding the nuances of debt management, this episode provides valuable information and practical advice. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of debt and discover strategies for achieving financial well-being.

Links to Resources 

• StepChange Website
• Save the Student Budget Calculator
• Citizens Advice 
• Student Services 'Your Money' Pages (University of Chester Only) 

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In this episode, we chat to Emily (Disability Team Leader) and Kara (Deputy Director - Student Experience) about the impact of Long Term Medical Conditions (LTMC) on university students. We discuss the importance of bespoke reasonable adjustments, and the role of inclusive teaching and learning. 

Emily sheds light on what LTMC entails and its significance in the academic setting and its alignment with the Equality Act and Kara shares her personal experience living with a LTMC during university. We discuss the profound effects living with a condition can have on learning and teaching in higher education and discover the ways support can make a significant difference..

As well as providing valuable tips for individuals living with chronic conditions on maintaining well-being throughout their studies, this episode is also insightful for those who want to learn more about what a LTMC is, and how they might be able to support those around them living with these conditions.

Find out more about Disability and Inclusion at the University of Chester, here. 

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In this episode, we chat to Adam Crane (Access and Participation Manager) all about Social Capital. We explore what Social Capital actually means and discover why it's crucial in your student journey. Social Capital can support you to enhance your confidence and skills, develop networks and relationships, learn about other cultures and issues in society and help progress you to a successful future.

Adam talks us through practical strategies to actively build and leverage your own Social Capital during your academic journey and beyond. Including, attending the inaugural Unlock your Future Conference, happening right here at the University of Chester on Wednesday 17th January 2024. We also hear inspiring real-life examples and insights on overcoming challenges and how social capital has supported current University of Chester students. 

Book A Place at the Unlock Your Future Conference
The Social Capital Collection 

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