Queen's University Belfast - Advisor Exchange

In this episode of Advisor Exchange, we’re delighted to be joined by Professor Judy Williams, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education and Students at Queen’s University Belfast. Judy shares her vision for education and the student experience at Queen’s, reflecting on the strategic priorities shaping teaching, learning, and support across the institution. We explore the vital role that Advisors of Studie...

In this episode of Advisor Exchange, we’re joined by Connie Craig-Lucey and Shalewa Adebowale from the Appeals, Conduct and Complaints Team at Queen’s University Belfast. Together, we unpack the processes that underpin student appeals, academic conduct, and complaints areas that advisors are often asked about but may not always feel fully confident navigating. Connie and Shalewa provide clarity on...

In this episode of Advisor Exchange, we’re joined by Johanna McMullan, Director of Education in the School of Nursing and Midwifery at Queen’s University Belfast, to explore academic advising within professional healthcare programmes. Johanna shares her perspective on the unique challenges and opportunities of advising students in nursing and midwifery; from supporting learners on demanding clinic...

In this episode, we’re joined by Professor Phil Hanna to explore one of the most exciting and rapidly evolving topics in higher education, the future of Artificial Intelligence. Phil shares his insights on how AI is reshaping the academic landscape, from supporting teaching and learning to transforming the Advisor of Studies role. We discuss the opportunities AI offers to enhance student engagemen...

Advisor Exchange returns with a brand new series! In this opening episode, Declan and Olivia look ahead to what’s in store for Series 2, including exciting developments within the Advisors of Studies Community of Practice at Queen’s University Belfast. They discuss upcoming plans, new initiatives, and the many ways they hope to further support and connect Advisors across the university, building a...

In this episode, we sit down with Taher Hatahet, an Advisor of Studies and Personal Tutor who works almost exclusively with international students. Taher shares his journey into this unique role and the insights he's gained from supporting students as they navigate academic and cultural challenges in a new environment. We explore the critical role of advisors in fostering student success, the impo...

In this episode of Advisor Exchange, Olivia and Declan chat with Will Doggart, Disability Officer, and Rebecca Burns, Mental Health Advisor for Disability Services (now Accessible Learning Support) at Queen's University Belfast. Will and Rebecca share insights into the crucial services offered by the University to support students with disabilities and mental health challenges. They discuss their...

Declan and Oliva are joined by Dr Laura Collins, a Senior Lecturer (Education) in the Centre for Biomedical Sciences Education. Laura is a trained Biomedical Scientist and Programme Lead for BSc Biomedical Sciences at Queen's. She brings her experiences of working in many institutions across the UK to her work. As an Academic member of staff she is responsible for the teaching of her students, but...

In this episode, we speak to Dr Marc Edwards, jointly appointed as Lecturer (Education) in Centre for Dental Education and Research Fellow in the School of Psychology. Marc discusses the highs and lows of being an Advisor of Studies, Lead Personal Tutor and Wellbeing Lead. He talks about approaches to building resilience in students, but also anti-fragility and 'bounce-back-ability'. Giving studen...

In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Jenny Brown, Quality Assurance and Regulations Manager from Academic Affairs. Jenny talks to us about about two critical resources for our students: the 'Exceptional Circumstances Policy' and the Assessment Support Hub. We look in-depth into how the 'Exceptional Circumstances Policy' is designed to support students facing unforeseen challenges...

Important Note: This episode includes discussions on sensitive topics, including suicide. In this episode of Advisor Exchange, we have an enlightening conversation with Rob Doyle (Student Wellbeing Adviser, Team Lead). We explore the essential services that Rob and his team offers to support student wellbeing, including the various acronyms, abbreviations and mnemonics used in their work, and the...

In the second of the two-part episode, Dr Aisling Keane and Dr Esha Barlaskar continue to give insight into their experiences as Advisors of Studies at Queen’s University Belfast. The discussion focuses on finding the balance in teaching by doing, guiding by showing, and stepping back when you know you have to. In difficult circumstances, it can be hard to always get things right, so what resource...

In the first of a two-part episode, Dr Aisling Keane and Dr Esha Barlaskar offer their unique perspectives and lived experiences as Advisors of Studies at Queen’s University Belfast. Exploring their roles, they provide insights from both an experienced advisor and someone new to the position, offering diverse viewpoints on navigating the challenges and opportunities within this crucial role.