Life in Plym

If Covid has put a strain on your financial situation then you may be able to get financial support as a University of Plymouth student. Whether you need a new laptop or help with some bills, the Covid Hardship Grant is there to support unexpected loss of income or new costs created by the pandemic. Listen to this episode to find out the details of who can apply, what you can apply for, and how simple the process is. 

Contact the Student Hub for more information: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services 

Thanks to Neil Gillet for the interview, Neil is the Student Services Manager at the University of Plymouth. 

2020 has been a tough year. Many of you will struggling with the impact of the pandemic, especially this winter break. 

You may be thinking that it’s impossible to find the good in this year, which is why we have gone out of our way on the search for the most inspiring good news stories from Plymouth and beyond. From successful students to daring doggos our aim today is to show you how to look for the best in times that seem like the worst. 

This year has brought us closer together even if we had to stay apart. 

We hope this good news gives you a small moment of joy!

Links:

The Yellow Hearts Campaign -https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/uk-52589050

German Shepard Playing Jenga -https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/dexterous-german-shepherd-stars-in-family-game-nights/

LGBT election candidates -https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2020/12/lgbtq-candidates-won-elected-office-year-ever/

UK Green Revolution -https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-ten-point-plan-for-a-green-industrial-revolution

In this second part we talk to the Environmental Society about what sustainability means to them, how you can get involved and how students can live a more sustainable lifestyle with specific tips for living in Plymouth. And because of all the negative environmental press in the media we also highlight some of the good news stories from the university and initiatives students have taken to become a more environmentally sustainable campus. Enjoy!

Society UPSU page: https://www.upsu.com/societies/envirosoc/

Today’s episode isn’t just for tree huggers and activists, sustainability is something that relates to every aspect of human life. From poverty to gender equality and from climate action to the job market. Whatever it is you care about we want to make sustainability relevant to you.  We want to help you not only imagine a better world, but help take the steps to achieve it!

Since this episode is a little longer than usual, feel free to take a break whenever you hear the jingle!

Sustainable development goals:https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sustainable-development-goals/

Commit to one change:https://www.count-us-in.org/

Today we have an honest interview with Andy Grace from the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion team at the University. We discuss just some of the ways the university has become more inclusive for all students, and the support that is available to them. 

We all want the university to be a safe, open and inclusive place where we can build meaningful  relationships, create long lasting memories as well as having the ability to thrive academically. 

To do this we must recognise and celebrate all of our differences and realise that it is these differences that make us unique.

Equality, diversity and inclusion: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/about-us/university-structure/service-areas/equality-diversity-and-inclusion

When did you know? podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2hvky3WbjXFrti4L5F3THl?si=4_Iri5fOS7-phjOCloqoHw

Todays episode we speak with Professor Bridie Kent about nursing, healthcare students, returning to practice during Covid-19, and so much more.

Press play to learn how Bridie begun working in healthcare, and how your life can take you anywhere if you say yes to opportunities. What an inspiration! 

If you are a healthcare student or staff, then we want to say a huge thank you! (and you'll hear us singing your praises in this episode).

University is a great place to try new things and to have fun, but the assumption that being a student means drinking just isn't true. In fact, even less students are drinking these days. Students work incredibly hard, often having part time jobs, doing volunteering, some of us have kids or caring responsibilities, and all of us have worked to get to where we are now.

Today we are celebrating all those students who don't drink, drink less or those who are considering it and showing you all the ways in which you can still fit in and have some of the best years of your life. Being sober doesn’t mean anti-social.

Links

Alcohol, drugs and addiction: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/student-services/shine/alcohol-drugs-and-addiction

Podcast inspiration, student blog: https://thetab.com/uk/lancaster/2019/10/24/i-go-to-sugar-sober-most-nights-and-i-have-more-fun-than-all-of-you-combined-11104

Success, a big word with lots of different meanings depending on who you ask. To ourselves it might mean getting our dream job, to some of our parents it might mean getting a first class degree, to our teams it might mean winning the next match, to our friends it might mean winning a pub quiz, to our counsellors it might mean just getting out of bed in the morning. 

With so many definitions of success, why do we expect ourselves to fulfill each and every one of them without failure. Today we talk about the different ways in which we can be successful but also how to accept those times when you don’t always meet the high expectations we put on ourselves.

Support for students:https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/about-us/university-structure/service-areas/equality-diversity-and-inclusion/student-support

Study support:https://liveplymouthac.sharepoint.com/sites/x76/SitePages/Settling-In-To-Your-Studies.aspx

With lockdown 2.0 happening, its normal to feel a bit worried about becoming isolated from other people. 

But don't worry, you survived the first time and you'll be okay again, just listen to this episode for some helpful tips!

We chat about what you can do during lockdown to make sure you feel good and don't feel isolated. 

This episode is chatty and informal, perfect for those moments when you need to hear a friendly voice!

If you are concerned about lockdown life and being a student, remember that the student hub are here to help you: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services

In today’s episode we talk to our special guest, loneliness. Loneliness moved in with us during our time at uni, no matter how much we tried to avoid them. Loneliness was always there lurking in the background on nights out with friends, and always ended up in our bed without fail. Today we are here to talk you through our experiences and the ways we finally dealt with our elephant in the room.

Links:

UPSU News article about loneliness:https://www.upsu.com/news/article/upsu/Recognising-loneliness-and-what-you-can-do-to-find-your-community/

NHS mental health support:https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/mental-health-helplines/

For the second part of our mature student series, we speak to Louise about studying Psychology, her ambitions for the future, and her experience of university life. Tune in to find out how you make the most of university!

Link

Mature Students Support:https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/returning-to-study/support-for-mature-students

For this episode you are going to need to be of legal drinking age in the USA because today we talk directly to all students over the age of 21. Whether you’re an undergrad or postgrad you’re all welcome here. We talk about the challenges of coming to university a little bit later in life or when you have a few more responsibilities. 

Today we interview Martins, a former postgraduate officer at the Students' Union and current postgraduate student!

From our own experience and from two student interviews we want to squash any worries you may have and really get you excited about the chapter in your life called university. 

Links

Mature Students Support: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/returning-to-study/support-for-mature-students

Are you worried about your graduate job prospects since there has been a global pandemic? If you answered yes to this then chances are you’re a student in need of some careers help.

For this episode we interview Mark and Sam from the university careers service who give you all the inside knowledge you need to know about careers during and after COVID. If you want more support don’t forget to check the links below to get individual support, even you graduates can get this!

Links:

Careers page www.plymouth.ac.uk/careers

Where could your degree subject take you? www.plymouth.ac.uk/career-subjects

A dedicated page for final year students www.plymouth.ac.uk/careers-finalists

The link to myCareer https://mycareer.plymouth.ac.uk

Everything you need to know about the Student Hub and student wellbeing this semester. We interview Alice Ludgate, the head of student services, to find out exactly what the hub is and how it can help students like you.

Take 20 minutes of your day to make sure you know how to #mindyourhead this semester. 

Links:

The Student Hub:https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services

Wellbeing services: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/student-services/counselling

Take it from us, the struggle of feeding yourself on a student budget is real. Some days you’ll cook yourself the best roast dinner and others you’ll be scrambling through your cupboards for a tin of beans. So let us give you our insider knowledge on how to make your money go a little further. Being smart with your money is going to be super important, and our top tips include planning ahead with your meals, making use of your freezer, and eating with your housemates.

Links:

Halal and Kosher shops and restaurants: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/uploads/production/document/path/17/17844/Halal_and_Kosher_Food_in_Plymouth.pdf

International food booklet: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/uploads/production/document/path/9/9638/RFJ27101_Authentic_Interntl_Food_Crop.pdf

For this episode we speak to Fawziyyah Ahmed, VP Wellbeing and diversity at the University of Plymouth Students Union (UPSU), about what she’s working on this year. This includes the work she has been doing with the student services team since July 2020. 

She gives us some really great tips and advice for looking after our wellbeing and talks about how she is still achieving her campaigns, despite the pandemic and despite finishing her Master’s degree. We do love an inspiring woman on this show!

Links:

More about Fawziyyah: https://www.upsu.com/news/article/upsu/Meet-Fawziyyah-VP-Wellbeing-amp-Diversity-2020-2021/

Part 2 of this episode is a short and sweet addition to let you know about all the extra places you can get support during your time at university. From talking to your personal tutor to the Students Union advice team, we are here to help you help yourself get the most out of your degree. We also give you examples of who to go to with what problem so you can navigate all the services like  a pro.

Student hub:

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services

UPSU advice:

https://www.upsu.com/advice/

If you’re not sure where to turn when something goes a little pear shaped on your course we have all the answers you need to know. We want your uni experience to run as smoothly as possible but sometimes things don't go to plan. For the first part of this episode we have a great conversation with Tracy and Steph from the Student’s Union who tell us all about their jobs making sure the student voice is heard loud and clear at the university. This is all about student reps including course reps, school reps, part time officers and sabbatical officers. Tune in to find out more.

Links:

UPSU Student Voice: https://www.upsu.com/studentvoice/

Student representatives:

https://www.upsu.com/studentvoice/representatives/

With a special guest interview with our friend Jonny, who has lived in Plymouth for 13 years and gives you lots of information on how to get to the best outdoor spots using only public transport, walking or bikes - make sure you listen whenever you need some weekend inspiration! 

Let us take you on a journey to a land not too far far away, an enchanted land called Dartmoor just waiting to be found.  A place with something for everyone, history, ponies and legends. Rambling up tours, cycling down hills, staying active in the great outdoors.

Tune in for the adventures of Millie and Tilda as we give you the insiders knowledge of the best natural spots in Plymouth, don’t forget your walking boots!

Even if you aren’t an outdoorsy person we have some special tips just for you that could help you get your daily dose of sunshine and exercise.

Links:

Visit Dartmoor website: www.visitdartmoor.co.uk

Plymouth bus information: https://www.plymouthbus.co.uk/

Video conferencing software is something that so many of us have had to get comfortable with in the last few months. 

In this episode we talk to VP Education, Emi Dowse, all about her tips for beating digital fatigue. We also talk to Emi about her campaigns as VP and the sorts of changes she thinks students need to expect from studying in September 2020. It’s a weird time to be a student that’s for sure but we’re here to help you navigate the do’s and don’ts of studying in a digital world.

Key links:

Student services: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/student-services

More about Emi: https://www.upsu.com/news/article/upsu/Meet-Emi-your-VP-Education-2020-2021/

We talk to two students, Emily and Rhiannon, all about their experiences of student life as neurodiverse adults. The term neurodiverse refers to a variation in the human brain in relation to social, learning, attention and mood aspects as well as other mental factors, which can relate to both ADHD and autism. 

This open and honest interview will open your eyes to the support that is available to you as well as how you can connect with others in a similar situation. Both talk candidly about what their university experience was like during the COVID-19 lockdown as well as the tips and tricks they have learnt over the years. This episode is not to be missed so sit back, grab a cuppa and press play.

Again this episode is a little longer than usual so every time you hear our little jingle feel free to take a break and come back later, we’ll be here as soon as you’re ready.

Key links:

Student services: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/student-services

Autistic Spectrum Condition information: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/student-services/disability-and-dyslexia/autistic-spectrum-condition-information

ADHD information:
https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/student-services/disability-and-dyslexia/general-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-information

Millie and Tilda have a much needed talk about anxiety, mental health and much more. Come along on our short journey about mental health and discover just a few of the self-help resources provided by the university. 

Metal health is something that deserves to be discussed, so let’s get talking.

This is a longer episode, so every time you hear our jingle music, feel free to pause and come back at a later time!

Key links:

Student hub: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services

Disability Services: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/student-services/disability-and-dyslexia

Self help resources, SHINE: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/student-services/shine

In this episode we talk about all personal tutors, who they are, what they do and why they are important. A personal tutor at university can be quite different to one you may have had before. They really are there to help you achieve and can sometimes be the difference between a student dropping out and deciding to carry on studying. 

Listen to hear Millie and Tilda’s experiences and an interview from ourspecial guest Tim O’Hare, a lecturer and personal tutorfrom the university.

Key links:

Personal tutoring at the University of Plymouth: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/about-us/teaching-and-learning/guidance-and-resources/personal-tutoring

Virtual personal tutor blog: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/new-students/blended-learning/virtual-personal-tutor-blog

The second episode on being social in a socially distanced world is all about the new ways to socialise and still enjoy your time at uni. Whether you are thinking about making friends whilst being socially distanced or you want to connect with housemates before you arrive we have all the hints and tricks you will need to survive freshers! Just press play. 

Key links:

Using social media to settle into student life: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/accommodation/residence-life/using-social-media-to-settle-into-student-life

Students' Union website: https://www.upsu.com/

To all you social butterflies and wallflowers out there, here is your guide to socialising on and around campus. In this episode we cover sports and societies, events and making friends at uni in the weird new covid world.  With our special guest, Verity Lemm, also known as VP activities in the Student’s Union we talk through what you can expect from the SU and campus life.

Key link:

UPSU events page: https://www.upsu.com/ents/eventlist/

UPSU sports and societies: https://www.upsu.com/clubs-and-societies/browse/

Your guide to what to bring to university in 2020, we talk about everything from laptops to home comforts to PPE. As well as how to access financial support from the uni if you need it. We know that this year will be very different for students, so if you want to prepare for  blended learning experience, sit back, relax and listen.

p.s. Don’t forget you can buy things once you get here!

Key links:

What equipment should I bring? https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/accommodation/applicants/what-should-i-bring

Bursaries and funding: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/study/fees/scholarships-bursaries-and-funding/bursaries

Student Services: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/student-services

For this episode we talk about the current  safety guidelines in place in Plymouth, as well as some of our favourite places to visit including shopping centres, bars, beaches and more.  There is still plenty to do in the city, despite social distancing, so press play and find our what makes Plymouth such a great place to live in. 

Make sure to check out the Plymouth city council webpage for up to date guidance.

Key links:

Plymouth City Council Coronavirus Page: https://www.plymouth.gov.uk/coronaviruscovid19information

Plymouth University, visit us page: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/about-us/visit

This is the third part of a three part series for our international students, make sure to check out the first two episodes!

For our international students to get a full picture of what student life will be like we have spoken to some internationals, a recent graduate and a student going into their second year. Listen to this episode to hear about their personal experiences of student life in Plymouth. They also give their top tips on how to get to know the city and get to know other students. So if you are new to the UK, Plymouth or just want to find out more, press play.

Key links:

University of Plymouth Student’s Union: www.upsu.com

This episode is the second in a three part series, make sure you listened to number one!

For this second part we get into the social side of student life. We talk to the President of the Student’s Union (SU), Chukwudi Ezenyi, about his experience as an international student and about what the SU has to offer including sports, societies, volunteering and much more!

Then we dive into what you can get up to when you arrive in Plymouth before any freshers events may have started, and where you might be able to get some great local and international food.

We hope you enjoy!

Key links:

University of Plymouth Student’s Union:www.upsu.com

UPSU events page:https://www.upsu.com/ents/

Visit Plymouth:www.visitplymouth.co.uk/whats-on

Welcome to our new and returning international students, for this episode we talk to our International Student Advice team and get your key questions about starting or returning to campus for the new term. The team are hosting their own live question and answer sessions so make sure you keep an eye on their webpage linked below.

Not only that but we discuss some of the services provided by staff to help you get writing support, english language support and connect with other international students arriving in Plymouth.

Key links:

International student welcome: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/international-students/international-student-advice/international-welcome-week

Events (Q and A and global buddies):

https://www.upsu.com/ents/

In our very first episode, we (Millie and Tilda) discuss how we can work from home and still stay happy. As we say goodbye to regular face-to-face teaching and adjust to a new world of blended learning, we are here to help students think about the ways you can make this change a little bit easier. We can't wait to (virtually) meet you, dear listeners, so press play and lets start this journey together!

Our top three steps include getting into a routine, setting up your study space and enjoying your free time. Listen to this podcast to find out more.

Key links:

IT services available from home: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/about-us/university-structure/service-areas/it-services

Emails: libraryandITenquiries@plymouth.ac.uk

Are you a Uni of Plymouth student? 

Nice to meet you! 

We hope you stick around to find out more...