The Student Experience Podcast

Staying in Chester over the summer? In this episode of Summer in the City , Lily and Luis explore everything the city has to offer during the warmer months. From local events and festivals to hidden gems, outdoor activities, and budget-friendly days out, together we share tips on how students can make the most of their summer in Chester. Whether you're studying, working, or simply enjoying a...

In this episode, Shaunagh and Lily are joined by Chester Students’ Union’s new officer team – Will Gaines (VP Student Life) and Luis Martel Correia (VP Education) to talk all about settling into university life this Welcome and beyond. We chat about everything from finding your community through sports, societies and CSU events, to managing the transition into academic study and looking after your...

 In this episode, Shaunagh and Lily are joined by Steph from the University of Chester's Admissions team and Gabriela, a current Bioveterinary Sciences student, to help you get prepared for starting your journey at the University of Chester this upcoming academic year. Whether you’re holding a Firm or Insurance offer (or just curious about what to expect), we talk through everything from what...

In this episode of the Student Experience Podcast, Shaunagh and Lily take a deep dive into Criminology at the University of Chester. They’re joined by Dr. Paul French (Lecturer in Criminology) and students Leanne Peters and Sam Barlow to explore what it’s really like to study Criminology at the University of Chester—from lectures and research to volunteering opportunities and student societies. To...

In this episode, Shaunagh and Lily are joined by Zeryab (Muslim Chaplain at University of Chester), Masoma (Student and Race Advocate) and Mariam (Student and President of Islamic Society also known as ISOC) to explore the significance of Ramadan and the experiences of Muslim students during this holy month. From fasting and prayer to the sense of community and support available on campus, the con...

In this episode, Shaunagh and Lily are joined by Amy and Vivek from the University of Chester’s Sustainability Team to discuss the importance of sustainability and how students can get involved in making a positive impact on campus and beyond. Amy and Vivek talk us through what sustainability means and why it is crucial for universities to take action. They share insights on how students can contr...

In this episode, Shaunagh and Lily are joined by Katie Moore from Student Services and Fiona from Students Organising for Sustainability UK (SOS-UK) to discuss alcohol use on campus and the steps being taken to build a healthier, more inclusive drinking culture. Katie and Fiona talk us through the Alcohol Impact program, which focuses on promoting responsible drinking and challenging stereotypes a...

In this festive episode of the Student Experience Podcast, Shaunagh and Lily are joined by Summer, Vice-President Student Life to explore how to make the most of the holiday season. Whether you're staying on campus for the holidays, you're far from home and possibly celebrating alone, or you're looking for ways to take care of your wellbeing during a busy festive period, we’ve got y...

Since recording this episode of the podcast, CSASS have made the very difficult decision to close. This is due to the ongoing challenges of securing and sustaining funding, an issue that affects so many small charity organisations. We would like to thank CSASS for their incredible work over the past 30 years. Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions about sexual violence, which may be di...

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 achievabl...

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 o...

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 tip...

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...

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,...

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 autis...

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...

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 di...

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...

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 f...

In this episode we chat with Carl Christie, Student Money Adviser in Student Services about some of his top money saving tips. Carl shares his expert insights on navigating the world of finance. This conversation contains practical advice that will help you manage your money more effectively while still enjoying your student experience to the fullest. Join us as we delve into  tips on; shopping, b...

In this episode we chat with Carl Christie, Student Money Adviser in Student Services about some of his top money saving tips. Carl shares his expert insights on navigating the world of finance. This conversation contains practical advice that will help you manage your money more effectively while still enjoying your student experience to the fullest. Join us as we delve into  tips on; healthcare,...

Trigger Warning: Suicide Discussion Please be advised that this episode contains a sensitive conversation about suicide, mental health, and related topics. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or emotional distress, and you need to talk about how you are feeling, please call Samaritans on 116 123, or email on jo@samaritans.org .  In this episode we chat with Jonny Girv...

In this episode we chat with Maria Skinner (Residential Life Manager) about moving away from home and how to make the most of your time living in University accommodation. Maria shares stories, insights, and valuable advice on adapting to a new living environment and how to make the transition into living independently as easy as possible. We discuss the practical aspects of settling into universi...

In this episode we chat with Thisanda Ayuka (Student and Race Advocate) about adapting to life in the UK as an International Student. Thisanda tells us more about what he found challenging about relocating to Chester and shares his favourite things about living and studying here. Thisanda shares his top hints and tips about how to settle in and make the transition to study in the UK as easy as pos...

In this episode we chat with Georgina Peel (Wellbeing Team Leader) about the importance of sleep. Georgina tells us more about 'sleep hygiene', what it means and why it's important. Georgina shares her top hints and tips about how to optimise your sleep routine and what signs to look out for that might indicate poor sleep hygiene. We loved recording this episode and found out so muc...