Student Digital Assistants Podcast

Published Tuesday, 1^st June, 2021 in University news

The Learning Enhancement and Development (LEaD) team along with the Student Digital Assistants started a podcast in March 2021 to share experiences, tips, and advice on their experience with studying online, finding jobs and plans after finishing their studies.

Led by Student Digital Assistants, Samantha (Sam), Olivia, Noor and Amanda, the podcast features four episodes this term covering a wide range of topics. You can access each episode below along with our recap or access the whole playlist here.

Episode 1: Our Uni experience during the pandemic

This episode started with an introduction to all four Assistants. Sam is a third-year International student in International Business, Olivia is a master’s home student in Broadcast Journalism, Amanda is a third-year international student in Law and Noor is a third-year international student in Computer Science.

They spoke about their university experience during the pandemic and the various struggles they initially faced. Some of them could not fly back home, others quickly packed their bags and left. One of the common difficulties they faced was managing their workload without the structure university life offers. They all slowly realised that their original schedule of working day and night on their studies was not a feasible routine and that it is important to take breaks and focus on other aspects of life, such as friends and family.

Episode 2: Camera’s off or on Student debate

The Students’ Union joined the Student Digital Assistants for a debate on whether cameras should be on or off during lectures, workshops and tutorials.

The overall consensus was that while it is optional for students to have their cameras on, they found that having cameras on tends to make you more attentive and engaged. Additionally, having everyone keep their cameras on allows for greater student participation and reduces the loneliness associated with isolation.

They also discussed reasons students may not want to keep their cameras on. Individuals may not want to be recorded or be subject to a photoshopped video being spread around without their consent. Students may have anxiety and may not feel safe enough to turn their cameras on. Additionally, there may be parents with small children in the background, the different time zones and routines make it impossible to keep the camera on, students of faith may not want to wear the headscarf in their own home or other privacy concerns.

Episode 3: Dealing with deadlines

Noor, Samantha, Olivia, and Amanda talked about how they dealt with their deadlines; the final push before the end of the year. Some of them found that it was better to take a break for a few days before starting on their coursework. Others found that it was better for them to just do the work and take a break after submitting.

They highlighted the importance of time management and not getting disheartened by a bad grade; there is always going to be a chance for improvement.

Episode 4: Future plans and work

In the fourth and final episode of this term’s podcasts, the four talked about where they’re headed to next, the importance of work experience, and CV tips.

Some of them have decided to pursue a master’s degree, highlighting how they would like the extra time as a student to improve their CV and search for jobs. The rest are looking to start working after graduation.

The largest focus of this episode was on the importance of work experience, whether you’re a first or a third-year student. Something as simple as waitressing or volunteering can help you develop transferrable skills that will boost your chances of finding a job. They found it surprising when they were told to put their work experience first and their education second on their CVs, as employers tend to care more about your skills than whether or not you got a first on your essay.

As for CV tips, they highlighted the importance of speaking to people in the industry you would like to work in. Creating those connections gives you an insight into what that particular employer tends to look for. Additionally, you can book an appointment with City’s Careers Service to talk about next steps or to review your CV and application form.

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