Student Perspectives: Balancing Part-Time Work and Study

Posted on by tim.worth

It’s very common for students to have part-time work and study at the same time, but that can bring pressures and difficulties in managing your time. Here, the Bristol Futures Student Advocates share their ideas, tips and experiences of balancing part-time work and study.


How do I split my time and priorities between work and study?

Many students choose to take on part-time jobs to support them financially while at university. However, it is important to keep in mind how many contact hours you have a week/ how many hours of work you are expected to put in outside of those hours. For example, some weeks I’ll have quite a lot of contact hours, which means that I have less availability to work and so flexibility within a job is important to me. 

Additionally, time management becomes more important when taking on a part-time job that fits around your studying. Some people may prefer to work more weekends and complete most of their course-related tasks during the week, while others may prefer to work in a job during the week and use the weekend to catch-up on university work. Either way, it can help to visualise the next week ahead before it starts and make sure you know when your shifts are, when you have university and anything else you might have planned. 

Having a job as a student might also make having a good work-life balance challenging. Making sure you have time do things that you enjoy outside of a job and university is important for your mental-wellbeing, so don’t be afraid to politely decline a work shift if it means you won’t have the time to do things you enjoy too. 

Ana Maria FB, BVSc1 

Photo of Eliana, a contributor to this blog post
Eliana Garcia Bustos

Balancing part-time work with studies, especially in engineering, requires careful planning to ensure that academic progress isn’t negatively impacted. As an international student, adhering to the 20-hour work limit is essential to maintain visa compliance. It’s crucial to manage work hours in a way that doesn’t conflict with important study times, especially during major deadlines. 

In group projects, effective communication is key. I rely on platforms like Slack or Microsoft Teams to keep everyone updated. Ideally, I’d prefer a job near campus with flexible hours, so I can work around lab sessions and group meetings. Academics must always take precedence, as a strong academic record can open more career opportunities. It’s important to recognise personal limits and explore alternatives like scholarships or financial planning. Discussing plans with tutors or supervisors can also offer valuable insights and help avoid potential challenges.  

Ultimately, balancing work and study is possible with clear priorities, effective time management, and self-awareness. 

Eliana Garcia, Mechanical an Electrical engineering, year 3  

How do I manage my work shifts around my studies?

As a student, studying has always been my first priority but sometimes I would also like to do some part-time work to have some extra money. The key is to have some flexibility so that you have room to adjust. For example, I will have 2 days in a week for academic preparation, revision and coursework completion (if necessary). I always arrange my part-time shifts in between my lectures for other weekdays. Most university part-time jobs are flexible so you can arrange shifts that fit your schedule in most of the time. If not, you are always welcomed to email the manager to address that issue.  

Ho Wang Adrian Tung, BSc Biomedical Sciences Year 2

A picture of Louna Larose, a contributor to this blog post
Louna Larose

On paper, following a plan works really well, but sometimes, life gets in the way and all you can do to tackle it is flexibility. During busy assessment weeks and times where I feel overwhelmed, asking people for help is always the solution: speaking to my manager to take on less shifts a certain week, asking if anyone can help cover my shifts, or as simple as blurting out everything on my mind to a friend.  

Louna Larose, Psychology BSc Year 2  

I have two criteria when selecting a part-time work: whether the shifts are flexible and whether it is far from the university. Most of parttime jobs I do are flexible in time: If I have a time conflicts, I contact the team leader as soon as possible, and they can find someone to cover for me. But for some works, I am required to give, for instance, three days’ notice. Therefore, my suggestion is to discuss this with your team leader, know their requirements, and contact them ASAP if your plan changes. Also, I prefer to work near the university to save time. If a work requires me to travel for an hour, generally I will not consider it. 

Jiamiao Chen, PhD, Department of English 

What are the specific impacts of my course on managing a part-time job?

The most significant impact of a part-time job on my study is losing my revision and free time. However, this can be solved by organized time-management (having flexibility) as mentioned above. Part-time jobs might increase stress as you are bearing more responsibility. Always talk to someone whom you feel comfortable with if you find your stress is affecting your wellbeing. Regarding legal requirements, always check how many hours your visa allows you to work and make sure you commit to it.  

Ho Wang Adrian Tung, BSc Biomedical Sciences Year 2 

A photo of Maansi, a contributor to this blog post
Maansi Gupta

Balancing part-time work and studies isn’t always easy, especially as a final year student, but with some planning and flexibility, it’s definitely doable.

Since I’m in final year, studying is my top priority so I keep everything organised by scheduling my classes, shifts and study sessions on my phone calendar. Having it all in one place helps me stay on top of things and avoid double-booking myself. I always block out at least three full days each week for revision, coursework, and exam prep, while planning my shifts on other days around my other commitments.  

When deadlines pile up or my course gets more demanding, I’ve found it really helpful to communicate with my manager. I love the flexibility that part-time university jobs offer because they make it so much easier to fit work around my academic commitments, which is so important during a busy year like this. 

Of course, balancing work and study can sometimes feel overwhelming, but having a clear schedule and being able to adjust when needed really helps. Taking breaks and talking to friends when I’m stressed also keeps me feeling grounded. 

Maansi Gupta, Economics Year 3  

As an international student how do I manage legal requirements, work and study?

A picture of Jiamiao Chen, a contributor to this blog post
Jiamiao Chen

As an international student working on a student visa and restricted to work no more than 20 hours per week, the most important thing to bear in mind is that I should keep my working hours strictly within this limit. Considering how expensive living in Bristol is, I am often tempted to work for 20 hours each week. However, studying should always be prioritised over working, and whenever there are time conflicts between my work and my seminars or lectures, I always choose to attend academic lectures. There will be plenty of time for us to work after graduation, and what you learn now can prepare you to find more suitable work in the future. So, the most significant thing is to resist the temptation to spend too much time on your part-time work! 

Jiamiao Chen, PhD, Department of English 

Being an international student has many challenges, firstly, coming to a new country, new place, and getting to know new people. It is scary how you can adjust to university life with a blink of an eye. I enjoyed my academic life, assessments, and modules. I loved how interactive and social University of Bristol is, especially when it comes to its diverse schemes for student jobs. Being a student advocate has opened so many doors for me. I loved working with students, interacting with different tutors and mentors, it was a nice change from all the academic studying.  

Sarah Al-Shahabi, MSci Cancer Biology and Immunology 

As an international student, my legal requirements are to work no more than 20 hours per week during term time, ensuring that enough time is focussed on my studies at the same time. Balancing work and studies can be tricky but it is a learning curve and just takes some practice. And overall, makes my university life just that much more fruitful and fulfilling. 

Louna Larose, Psychology BSc Year 2 

How does a part-time job impact my wellbeing?

Balancing work, life, and academics is something everyone strives for, and with proper organisation, it can be quite achievable. Managing my time was actually one of my favourite parts. Something as simple as an Outlook planning session each week made a huge difference in keeping my schedule organised. I loved having the flexibility to set my own working hours, report to my managers, and connect with students from different courses and backgrounds. It made balancing everything so much easier and more enjoyable. The people I met through study skills at the university were some of the kindest, most inspiring individuals, and I feel lucky to have been part of that. 

Sarah Al-Shahabi, MSci Cancer Biology and Immunology 

A big part of university is the experiences you gain alongside your studies. For me, that’s balancing academics with social life, sports and a part-time job. I plan my day by time-blocking hours dedicated to each activity and prioritising. This challenges me to work more efficiently and effectively in the time period I give myself. At the same time, having a range of activities helps motivate me to work harder during my study blocks.  

Louna Larose, Psychology BSc Year 2 

If you want to learn more about balancing work with studies check out the other blog posts in our series.

Balancing Part-Time Work and Study: You are not alone!

Posted on by tim.worth

In this part of our series on balancing part-time work and study, final year French and Italian student Dylan Webster-Deakin discusses the stigma and mental health pressures around working part-time and offers some practical tips on how to deal with those and the work itself. A photo of Dylan Webster-Deakin, a contributor to this blog post

As someone who had to balance a part-time job and full-time studies at the University of Bristol for the majority of their time here, and someone who is also a keen writer, I jumped at the opportunity to share my experiences and offer some advice. Balancing work, studies, leisure and a social life is tricky, and is often regarded by many as a ‘taboo’ due to its perceived connotations and the stigma surrounding it. In this blog I will offer as much advice as I can on topics such as time management, mental health and study techniques for students who work part-time.

To give a very brief overview of my personal experiences working part-time while in education – I’ve been working part time since I turned 16, with my first job coming in the form of a sales assistant at the local greengrocer’s. I stacked shelves, served customers, and performed endless mental arithmetic. Then at the start of University I started working as a lifeguard at a leisure centre in Stoke Gifford, which came with it’s own challenges, particularly with regards to commuting (45 minutes by bike!). Since my year abroad I’ve been doing some agency work and also worked in a pub over the summer. Now, onto the advice!

The first thing to realise is: you are not alone. Over 50% of students in the UK have part-time jobs, so it’s not an uncommon situation to be in. A lot of people are embarrassed by the fact that they have to work to finance their studies, but in reality, it’s more uncommon to not be employed while at University than the other way around. The University itself employs students in a variety of ambassadorial roles precisely because they recognise how normal and common it has become. While the University itself recommends no more than 15 hours work per week during term time for Undergraduates (20 for PG), it is not uncommon to work more, especially with rising living costs. Why is this the first thing to realise? Because mental health matters. If you feel isolated, stressed or low, then that will impact your productivity – at work and at Uni.

You can find links to various support services for students from the University of Bristol here. These include support for mental health and wellbeing, financial advice, and general student queries.

Don’t let work ruin your social life. As mentioned, staying happy and healthy are vital when it comes to keeping on top of your studies. Make sure to meet up with your friends, go to social events – continue to do the things that make you happy. It may require a bit more planning than it did pre-job (which we will tackle shortly), but it’ll be worth it.

But how do you manage it? It’s hard enough balancing uni work, a social life, exercise etc. adding a part time job into the equation can be a daunting thought! Time management is key. Trying to make sure that you’re at Uni, be it in a lecture or in a study space, from 9-5 every day will make this so much easier. Most employers will take into account your availability during the selection process for the job, so would not (and should not) be hiring students if they’re unwilling to be flexible in terms of weekly hours and shift start/end times. Try to be vocal and let your manager(s) know when, where, and for how long you can work each week. You’ll accrue payed holiday and are entitled to unpaid holiday, so if you need a week off because you have lots of deadlines then take one. It’s likely that if they’ve employed you, then they may well employ other students so talk to each other and work together – offer to cover a shift for them if something comes up at late notice, then ask for them to return the favour.

Try to prioritise the most important and urgent pieces of work. A technique that really helped me was making a tier list of importance for my Uni work – and allocating my time accordingly. You will have opportunities to catch up, or do extra work, throughout the academic year (reading weeks, Christmas / easter holidays) so don’t worry if you feel like you’re struggling in the moment. Prioritise the most pressing pieces of work, and make a note of what you were unable to do, or need to revise, and go back to it when you have time.

Study skills has a number of excellent resources on time management techniques, including a blog post series and a self-paced online resource.

To summarise:

  • You are not alone: talk to your peers, they will likely be in the same boat!
  • Let neither Study nor Work rule your life. Find a balance, communicate with your manager and colleagues.
  • Continue to make time for the things you enjoy.
  • Plan your week and learn to prioritise (top tip! use the Outlook calendar/task tabs in your Uni email)
  • Time management is key

Dylan Webster-Deakin, French and Italian, Year 4 

Balancing Part-Time Work and Study: Flexible jobs help you stay sociable and focused on study

Posted on by tim.worth

In this part of our series on balancing part-time work and study, final year economics student Maansi Gupta shares how she uses her phone calendar to help her stay in control of balancing work, social life and staying focussed on study.

A photo of Maansi, a contributor to this blog post

Throughout my three years at university I have worked several part-time jobs, but balancing these jobs alongside academics, sport, extra-curriculars and a social life isn’t easy. While I try to find a middle ground, there are times when it feels overwhelming, so the only way I manage everything is being very organised with my scheduling. 

My phone calendar is my lifeline – every lecture, shift, sports session and social plan is logged to ensure I don’t double-book myself or forget something important. That being said, even the best organisation doesn’t make more hours appear in the day.

There are weeks when deadlines pile up, so it is a constant balancing act. However, I always make a conscious effort to set aside time to socialise with friends. University isn’t just about studying and working, it’s also about enjoying the experience, and I don’t want to look back and regret missing out on making memories with friends. Even if it’s just a quick coffee catch-up or a study session together, those moments help keep me sane. At the same time, guilt creeps in. If I spend too much time socialising, I feel like I should be working or studying. If I spend all my time working or studying, I feel like I’m missing out on the university experience. The mental tug-of-war between responsibilities and actually enjoying university life can get exhausting. 

Being in final year, my academic work is definitely a main focus. There are weeks when I need to cut back on work to focus on assignments, but thankfully, my university jobs as a Student Assisted Guidance in Economics (SAGE) Leader, Bristol Futures advocate and a School of Economics Student Ambassador, allow for that flexibility. I’m able to adjust my shifts alongside my studies in a way that feels manageable. Whether it’s working a few hours between classes or picking up extra shifts during quieter academic periods, these roles have always fit seamlessly into my schedule. 

University-based jobs are normally very flexible, conveniently located, and run by people who understand student life. So if you’re thinking about getting a part-time job, my biggest piece of advice is to find one that fits around your studies, not the other way round. Also, finding the right balance is an ongoing process (one which I’m still figuring out!). There will always be weeks when one aspect takes precedence over another. What’s important is learning how to adapt, set boundaries, and make time for both responsibilities and enjoyment! 

Maansi Gupta, Economics Year 3 

Balancing Part-Time Work and Study: Restrictions and benefits as an international student

Posted on by tim.worth

In this part of our series on balancing part-time work and study, English Literature PhD student Jiamiao Chen discusses the limitations but also the skills development opportunities that working part-time can bring.

As an international student working on a student visa and restricted to work no more than 20 hours per week, the mostimportant thing to bear in mind is that I should keep my working hours strictly within this limit. Considering how expensive living in Bristol is, I am often tempted to work for 20 hours each week. However, there will be plenty of time to work after graduation, hence the most significant thing is to resist the temptation to spend too much time on the part-time work! 

Therefore, I am very selective about what types of part-time work I do. I usually choose part-time work which aligns with my current research interests and will contribute to my personal development. For instance, I work as a study skills student advocate and deliver workshops to help students improve their study skills. I was an introvert before, and I know that after graduating from the University, I want to teach English Literature. Communicating with people and having some teaching experiences are the core skills I need to become a qualified lecturer in the near future, and my work experience provides me with an opportunity to practice and develop these skills. This work experience also improves my teamwork skills, and although I am not yet a team leader, I can observe from my team leaders very good leadership skills, which I can learn and apply to my future work. Most importantly, I get some extra income! This greatly eases my financial burden and boosts my self-confidence, as I know that I can use what I learn to help other people, and I am confident to find a job I am interested in with my current work experience. 

I achieve a nice balance between studying and working, and my part-time work also helps to improve my wellbeing and makes me feel a deeper sense of belonging to the community of the University. 

Jiamiao Chen, PhD English Literature  

Book Club Reflections: Rereading, Translation, and the Power of Stories

Posted on by gl.spisso

This month’s book club meeting took us on a journey through time, language, and personal growth—proving once again that books are more than just words on a page. Here are some highlights from our chat!

Want to join us? Book here for our next meeting on the 5th of March!

Re-reading: A Different Book Every Time?

Ever picked up a book you read years ago and felt like you were reading something completely new? Turns out, re-reading isn’t just revisiting a story—it’s seeing it through a new lens. One of us went back to The Pursuit of Love by Nancy Mitford after nearly a decade and found details they had completely missed the first time. Others noticed this in academic books too—especially with subjects like mathematics, where experience changes how we process information. It’s like books grow with us. Or maybe we grow with them?

Lost (and Found) in Translation

Translation is tricky business. One reader had a bilingual reading experience—switching between Spanish and English versions of the same book—and realized just how much gets altered in translation. Another pointed out how Trainspotting and A Clockwork Orange had to invent entirely new slang in translations to capture the same rebellious energy. And then there was the realization that subtitles in movies can strip away humor and nuance—like when a Catalan film’s clever wordplay was turned into something… well, kind of bland in English. The takeaway? If you can, reading in the original language might be worth the effort!

Shakespeare: Marriage, Morality, and Mystery

We had a deep dive into Measure for Measure, one of Shakespeare’s lesser-known plays, which left us with more questions than answers. Is marriage a legal contract, or does mutual agreement make it valid? What happens when a seemingly virtuous leader abuses power? And why does Isabella stay silent at the end when the Duke proposes? Silence as consent? Or resistance? We also discovered a great hack—watching performances instead of just reading the text. Shakespeare is meant to be seen, not just read!

The Weight of Loneliness in Literature

One of the most moving discussions was about The Heart is a Lonely Hunter—a book filled with characters seeking connection but failing to truly understand each other. The main character, Singer, is mute, yet everyone around him treats him as their personal confidant, assuming he understands them completely. But does he? And who really understands him? The novel paints a heartbreaking picture of isolation, and while it’s not exactly a light read, it made us think deeply about how we perceive relationships and communication.

You read all the way until here? You might be RSBC material! Join us for our next meeting on the 5th of March! Or if you are looking for a book to pick up, check out the list of book that were discussed last session.

 

Now Recruiting: Study Skills Student Advocates 2025/26

Posted on by tim.worth

*Please note that the deadline for applications for the Student Advocate roles for the 2025/26 academic year has now passed.*

Be part of a dynamic team promoting and delivering Study Skills support in the 2025/26 academic year. 

As a Study Skills Student Advocate you’ll be an ambassador for Study Skills, promoting the service to members of the University and public alike. You’ll also support fellow students by running Study Skills drop-ins and workshops, staffing pop-up stands, attending events and having input into online learning resources and more. You’ll develop skills in organisation, teaching, support, public speaking and team working, all of which will be valuable for your future career development. 

We’re looking for applications from any student at the University of Bristol to join our Advocate team for the 2025/26 academic year, whether you’re undergraduate or postgraduate, home or international, as long as you’ll be a registered student in 2025/26. We’ll train you in all the skills you need and work with you throughout the year to ensure you develop and gain the best experience possible from working with us. We are also seeking students with skills in coding to assist at our weekly Coding Clubs. 

Core duties of the Advocate Role:  

  • Act as an ambassador within your faculty to promote the Study Skills service. 
  • Deliver one-to-one peer support sessions to students for Study Skills. These may take the form of drop-in sessions at the Study Skills Hub in Senate House, or peer support in regular study groups.  
  • Facilitate workshops on Study Skills. Workshops may run face-to-face or online. 
  • Advocates with skills in coding may assist with our weekly Coding Clubs.
  • Attend and assist in organizing promotional activities (such as pop up stands and lecture ‘shout-outs’).
  • Assist in gathering feedback from students and academics in your faculty to help develop and shape Study Skills.  
  • Meet regularly with your Study Skills faculty tutor. 
  • Work collaboratively with Study Skills staff to help further develop the Study Skills service.
  • Additional activities will be required as the role continues to develop.  

Benefits of the role:  

  • This is a paid role (see wage details below). 
  • You will be provided with comprehensive training that will equip you with the knowledge and skills to carry out this role. Ongoing training will be provided throughout the duration of your contract as the role develops.  
  • Work experience to enhance your CV i.e. marketing, group-work delivery, time management, leading and influencing. 
  • An opportunity to shape the development of an ambitious, innovative university-wide project. 
  • The source of a reference for future employment / LinkedIn recommendations. 
  • This role can provide evidence that will contribute to the Bristol PLUS Award / Bristol PLUS Outstanding Award. (All team members are encouraged to participate in this award).  

Wage:  

Advocates are paid the Real Living Wage, which will be £12.60 per hour in September 2025. This role attracts a holiday increment of 12.07% per hour (so total paid per hour is £14.12). Workshop delivery (expected to start in the autumn after training) is paid at £16.76 per hour (plus 12.07% holiday pay). Wages are paid monthly in arrears via the Temporary Staffing Service (TSS).   

Hours / Contract: 

  • Working hours will be discussed at interview, but will range from 0 – 6 hours per week (you will not be expected to work during University holidays or assessment periods)  
  • Training will begin in September 2025 and continue throughout the year. Contracts will begin in September 2025.
  • Please note that to be eligible for this role you must be a registered student at the University of Bristol in the 2025/26 academic year.

How to apply: 

Please apply with a CV and covering letter outlining your suitability for the role. You can find our advice on writing a cover letter here.

Submit your application to Dr Tim Worth (Study Skills Coordinator) at tim.worth@bristol.ac.uk by 11.59pm on Friday 07 March 2025. 

Further information: 

If you require clarification of the above information or have further questions about the role, please contact study-skills@bristol.ac.uk 

Closing date: 11:59pm Friday 07 March 2025 

Provisional interview dates: Monday 24 March – Friday 04 April 2025.

RSBC Book List – February 2025

Posted on by gl.spisso

A list of all the books talked about in our last sesh!

The Pursuit of Love
The Pursuit of Love – A novel by Nancy Mitford that explores the romantic adventures of the Radlett family in 20th-century England. 		Love in a Cold Climate
Love in a Cold Climate – Another of Nancy Mitford’s novels, this book continues the story of the Radletts, focusing on the enigmatic Polly Hampton.
Measure for Measure
Measure for Measure – A play by William Shakespeare that delves into themes of justice, morality, and mercy in Vienna. 		The Heart is a Lonely Hunter
The Heart is a Lonely Hunter – Carson McCullers’ debut novel portrays the profound isolation and longing of various inhabitants in a small Southern town.
A Biography of John von Neumann
A Biography of John von Neumann – This biography delves into the life of John von Neumann, a pioneering mathematician and physicist known for his contributions to quantum mechanics and computer science. 		Earth Eater
Earth Eater – Written by Dolores Reyes, this novel tells the story of a woman with the supernatural ability to find missing persons by consuming earth.
The Great Gatsby (Japanese)
The Great Gatsby (Japanese Edition) – F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic, translated into Japanese, capturing the decadence and tragedy of the Jazz Age. 		Trainspotting
Trainspotting – Irvine Welsh’s gritty portrayal of a group of friends navigating life and addiction in Edinburgh.
A Clockwork Orange
A Clockwork Orange – Anthony Burgess’ dystopian novel explores themes of free will and the nature of evil through its delinquent protagonist. 		Bridget Jones's Diary
Bridget Jones’s Diary – Helen Fielding’s humorous account of a single woman in London, chronicling her personal and professional misadventures.
Pride and Prejudice
Pride and Prejudice – Jane Austen’s classic novel delves into issues of class, marriage, and morality through the story of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. 		Short Stories by M.R. James
Short Stories by M.R. James – A collection of horror stories by M.R. James, renowned for their atmospheric tension and supernatural elements.
A Book by Truman Capote
A Book by Truman Capote – While the exact title isn’t specified, Truman Capote’s works range from true crime narratives like ‘In Cold Blood’ to novellas like ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s.’

Reading Skills Book Club – Updates #1

Posted on by gl.spisso

Read, Talk, Improve!
Want to improve your English in a fun, stress-free way? Join the Reading Skills Book Club! You can read anything you like—books, articles, blogs, even comics—then chat about it in a friendly group. No pressure, just a great way to practice English, share ideas, and enjoy reading!

Our next meeting: 12th February 12-13.30 will be at the Global Lounge, Senate House 1st Floor.

At our last meeting we have covered a list of tips to help you read more, made a long list of what we are reading and discussed some places to get reading material.

Reading Tips

Reading for pleasure is a fun and relaxing way to improve your language skills. The key is to pick things you truly enjoy—whether it’s novels, graphic stories, or memoirs—so it feels exciting, not like homework. If long books seem daunting, short stories offer rich ideas in bite-sized pieces, and reading books adapted into films can make understanding easier. For second-language learners, starting with a familiar book in your native language or choosing simpler texts can build confidence. Even just 10–15 minutes of reading a day adds up, making steady progress feel effortless and enjoyable!

Books

Between Two KingdomsBetween Two Kingdoms – A memoir by Suleika Jaouad, exploring her battle with leukemia and her journey of self-discovery and resilience after remission. The Queen's GambitThe Queen’s Gambit – Walter Tevis’s novel about a young chess prodigy who rises to fame while confronting personal demons and societal challenges.
Educated
Educated – Tara Westover’s powerful memoir recounting her escape from a strict survivalist upbringing to pursue formal education.		 Things No One Taught Us About LoveThings No One Taught Us About Love – Vex King’s self-help book delving into self-awareness, setting boundaries, and nurturing healthy relationships.
Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to FreedomNelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom – An autobiography by Nelson Mandela detailing his life story, activism, and efforts in the fight against apartheid. Grief Is the Thing With FeathersGrief Is the Thing With Feathers – Max Porter’s poetic exploration of grief, family, and healing through a surreal and lyrical narrative.
Infinite JestInfinite Jest – David Foster Wallace’s postmodern epic that intertwines themes of addiction, media, and the complexity of human relationships. The IdiotThe Idiot – Fyodor Dostoevsky’s classic novel about a kind and morally upright prince navigating a society rife with corruption.
TogetherTogether: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World – Vivek Murthy’s insightful look into the impact of loneliness and the importance of community and human connection. A Christmas CarolA Christmas Carol – Charles Dickens’ timeless tale of transformation, where Ebenezer Scrooge learns compassion and generosity through visits from three ghosts.
The PlagueThe Plague – Albert Camus’s allegorical novel depicting the reactions of a town grappling with a deadly plague and exploring human nature. RebeccaRebecca – Daphne du Maurier’s gothic masterpiece about a young bride haunted by the legacy of her husband’s first wife.
The Birds and Other StoriesThe Birds and Other Stories – A collection of eerie and suspenseful tales, including the inspiration for Alfred Hitchcock’s film “The Birds.”

 

Where to Find Books

Looking for more reads? Here’s where you can find them:

  • University of Bristol Libraries: Explore the Arts and Social Sciences Library (ASSL) on the 1st floor for PN-PR Literature and children’s books section or the READS section on the same floor.
  • Bristol Central Library: A great public library with a broad selection of fiction, nonfiction, and children’s books.
  • Libby App: Borrow ebooks and audiobooks from your local library for free—perfect for reading on the go.
  • Oxfam Second-Hand Bookshop: Located in Bristol, it’s an excellent spot for finding affordable pre-loved books, magazines and manuals.
  • Dreadnought Books: Bristol most loved second-hand book shop on St. George’s road, featuring wide variety, a comfy couch area to browse and a resident cat to keep you company.
  • Waterstones: Ultra browsable nationwide bookshop chain in the city center, includes a coffee shop!

You can check the Bristol Library advanced search function, remember to use the Call Name filter if you want to restrict your search to the Bristol READS collection of fictions and novels.

See you all at the next meeting!

Student perspectives: preparing for December assessments

Posted on by tim.worth

In the latest blog from our Student Perspectives series the Student Advocates provide top tips for preparing for December assessments.

1. Think about how you’re being assessed

Around exam time, it’s very easy to get so caught up in trying to learn the content that you forget to check how the exam is formatted and what exactly is expected. Don’t forget to check mark schemes, timings and past papers. Consider:

  • How many questions are there?
  • Is there an opportunity to choose from a list of questions? If so in-depth knowledge of certain areas will be more beneficial than a surface-level understanding of all of them.
  • How much time do I have in total?
  • How long is advisable to spend on each section?
  • What knowledge or skills are they looking for?

Whilst these considerations are easily overlooked, having definite answers to these questions will make you feel much more centred and prepared come the big day.

Rachel Shortall, English and Philosophy, Year 2

2. Create an effective study routine

Photo of Emma, the author of this blog postFirst, create a revision schedule, which will help you to stay organized and focused. For example, I block out time on my calendar to revise specific topics and include dedicated break times.

Secondly, set up a good study environment. Our external environment can affect our revision efficiency significantly. Here are some important considerations when setting up our study environment:

  • Have a natural light source.
  • Remove distractions from the dedicated workspace.
  • Noise control using ear plugs or white noises or calming music.
  • Have a comfortable chair.

Finally, buddy up! Joining revision groups or revising with friends can really help to maintain motivation.

Emma Lau, Veterinary Science, BVSc5

3. Be aware of your units’ Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

Focus on the Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) of your units to identify the skills and knowledge that you’re being assessed on. Based on the ILOs set yourself some questions similar to the exam format to test yourself on that particular topic. If you are not familiar with that topic, go over it again and try to recall it after a certain period.

Adrian Tung, Biomedical Sciences, Year 2

4. Give yourself a break

A photo of Maansi, a contributor to this blog post

Make sure to schedule regular breaks during study sessions. Stepping away from your work (even for just 10 minutes) can help clear your mind and reduce stress.

Go for a short walk, have a snack, or listen to music to reset before going back to your revision.

Maansi Gupta, Economics Year 3

5. Don’t be afraid to ask for help

Meeting and talking to the right people often helps to solve my problems or, at least, makes me feel less stressful. There are lots of people you can go to:

  • If you have questions regarding your subject see if you can schedule a meeting with your lecturers. Most of them have weekly office hours where they meet with students who need help. If you have a mentor or supervisor, you can also contact them.
  • If you feel stressful, you can book an appointment and chat with the University Wellbeing team.
  • For Study Skills support you can come to our drop-ins at the Study Skills Hub in Senate House to talk about anything related to study skills, time management, assessment preparation, etc.

Jiamiao Chen, English Lit, PhD

If you’d like any more support with preparing for assessments then check out our online resources, drop-ins, tutorials and workshops – all available via the Study Skills webpage.

Student Perspectives: top tips for studying at university

Posted on by tim.worth

As we settle down into the new academic year our Student Advocates give their top tips for studying at university. For more study skills support from our advocates come and talk to them at our drop-ins at the Study Skills Hub in Senate House.

Upgrade to University

Photo of Emma, a contributor to this blog post
Emma Lau

The most significant difference I noticed between school and university is the increased autonomy in how we study. Unlike in school, we have access to options like Re/Play and Livestream, which allow for more flexible learning. This independence necessitates stronger time management skills, as the responsibility for our learning falls more heavily on us.

– Emma Lau, Veterinary Science, Year 5.

Perhaps the biggest difference in comparing university to A-levels is having much more freedom – both time-wise and content-wise – and this can be both exciting and daunting. In my experience the Arts and Humanities courses give a lot of information on broad topics within your subject, and you can choose to investigate things more or less depending on how interesting you find them. One of my top tips would be to check well in advance when your assessments are and how you are being examined, because at university it is up to you to structure your learning around your own interests and what you think will help you excel in your assessments.

– Rachel Shortall, English and Philosophy, Year 2.

At the start of each unit or topic you’ll be given Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs). These tell you what you’re expected to learn. I found it helpful to revisit them when reviewing for exams or assignments. If you can tick off the ILOs, you’re on the right track. Each unit at university can also have a different approach to learning, as each one will have different learning outcomes. Some may provide asynchronous videos for you to watch before attending lectures, while others might require you to complete problem sheets in advance. Stay flexible, and adjust your study habits accordingly.

– Yifan Qiao, Aerospace Engineering, Year 4

For more help on transitioning to studying at university level see our Upgrade to University online resource.

Managing your time

Photo of Eliana, a contributor to this blog post
Eliana Garcia Bustos

During my first year, I used Trello to create a structured weekly schedule that helped me to prioritize tasks by focusing on what was most important and urgent, set reminders for upcoming deadlines, and create detailed to-do lists to track my progress. I color-coded tasks based on their urgency and subject, making it easy to see what needed immediate attention. Aditionally, I applied the Pomodoro Technique, where I studied for a set amount of time followed by a short break.

– Eliana Garcia, Mechanical and electrical Engineering, Year 3

Keep track of deadlines and obligations with a to-do list! Whether you prefer a physical list or an app like Things 3 (my personal favourite), writing things down is key. As soon as you become aware of a deadline or other task coming up, jot it down into your to-do list. Then, once you have a moment, make a plan for when and how you’re going to tackle it. If you make this a habit you will be sure to stay on top of all of your deadlines.

– Josh Perry, Physics, Year 4

A photo of Maansi, a contributor to this blog post
Maansi Gupta

Break tasks into smaller goals and set deadlines. I used to procrastinate when faced with long essays because I felt like I had to sit down and write the whole thing in one go, which seemed impossible. So I started breaking it down into daily goals that fit into my routine. On day one, I might spend 30 minutes gathering sources and skimming them for useful quotes. The next day, I’d dedicate an hour to outlining the essay and drafting a plan. By day three, I’d aim to write just 300–500 words at a time. Taking it step by step not only made the process feel less overwhelming but also gave me the satisfaction of ticking off smaller accomplishments throughout the week.

– Maansi Gupta, Economics, Year 3

For more tips on managing your time check out our Time Management online resource.

Taking notes

A photo of Dylan Webster-Deakin, a contributor to this blog post
Dylan Webster-Deakin

Particularly in first year note taking can be very much a ‘trial and error’ process. You may take too many or too few, or note down something you believe to be super important which then turns out to be useless, so my first tip is: don’t worry if you get it wrong. Like with a lot of things at uni, with time you’ll figure out what works for you.

My second tip is to always think ‘how am I being assessed in this module? What will the essay or exam be on?’ and then identify what information is necessary for this assessment.

– Dylan Webster-Deakin, French and Italian, Year 4

I would suggest using first year to try out different methods of note-taking and studying to find a good routine that works for you. As most students like to take notes and study digitally, there are numerous apps and sites that are available to try. Examples that I often hear about or have used include Goodnotes, Notion, Anki and OneNote. The best way to find what works for you is to try them out, and if it isn’t working don’t be afraid to change it up and try another, or use a combination of methods.

– Ana Maria FB, Veterinary Science (BVSc1)

a photograph of Shraddha, a contributor to the blog post
Shraddha Sriraman

OneNote has been amazing to have different tabs for each module – it’s done wonders for my organisation! I’d also say having a Notes section on your phone with a ‘plan of the day’ makes it much easier to structure your time. For those with closed-book exams, active recall is your best friend! Lots of people use flashcard apps, e.g. Quizlet or Anki to continually review high-yield content from previous lectures and keep that information fresh in your mind.

– Shraddha Sriraman, Medicine, Year 4

Personally, I found both OneNote and Notion useful for digital note taking. However, different people may prefer different applications. Therefore, I recommend considering the following factors when picking your note taking tool:

  1. Compatibility: Ensure the tool integrates well with the university’s systems (e.g., syncs with Outlook).
  1. User Interface: Choose a tool with a layout and design that appeals to you and is easy to navigate.
  1. Features: Look for features that match your needs, such as task prioritization, reminders, or progress tracking.
  1. Accessibility: Consider whether you need access across multiple devices (computer, phone, tablet).
  1. Learning Curve: Evaluate how much time you’re willing to invest in learning a new system.

– Emma Lau, Veterinary Science, Year 5

For more support with note-taking check out our Making and Using Notes online resource.

Other study skills top tips

Study with a buddy! Having a study buddy not only makes learning more fun, but it can also be helpful for group assessments, which are more common in uni. Collaborating with others can deepen your understanding and give you new perspectives on the material.

– Yifan Qiao, Aerospace Engineering, Year 4

Create a structured system, such as a mind map, to understand the interconnectedness of your units. Branch out core concepts and methods for each unit and identify the overlaps with other units. Use the map as a study tool – always ask how new concepts relate to others, link the theory and the data, and see the big picture.

– Dana Gutu, Economics, Year 3

Take a good rest when you are tired and don’t feel guilty; I have experiences staying up late until 2am or 3am, and that makes me work less effectively in the long run. When you feel really tired it is important to go to sleep and tell yourself “tomorrow is another day”. It’s easier for you to follow your plan and manage your time effectively when you feel energetic.

– Jiamiao Chen, Department of English, Year 4

A photograph of Ryan Lam, a contributor to this blog post
Ryan Lam

Think about your lifestyle. What are you eating? When do you exercise? How much do you sleep? While this might not be related to studying at first glance, I often find a day not as productive as usual only because I stayed up too late the day before.

Being mindful of your lifestyle could be helpful when you feel like you are struggling with studying. Hitting the gym might tire you out immediately after, but you might find yourself more energetic to start work the next day! So in general, I would encourage others to keep up with your life as well as your studies.

– Ryan Lam, Mathematics, PhD

For more study skills support visit our website to access online resources, drop-in sessions, one-to-one tutorials and workshops.