Year: 2023

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11 Things You Need to Know About Doing a Postgrad Course

11 Things You Need to Know About Doing a Postgrad Course

So, you’ve got big dreams of pursuing a postgraduate course after your graduation. That’s awesome! A postgrad adventure is a fantastic way to dive deeper into a field you’re passionate about and boost your career prospects. But hold your horses, my friend. Before you dive headfirst into those applications, there are a few things you need to know. Here are 11 handy tips to guide you on your postgrad journey.

  1. Why are you doing it?

First things first, you need to figure out why you want to pursue a postgrad in the first place. Having a solid reason or goal will keep you motivated throughout the course and prevent confusion when you come out on the other side. Think about how a postgrad degree will help you achieve your future goals. Is it essential for career advancement or personal growth? If you’re just considering it to avoid employment or because you’re unsure of what else to do, it might be worth digging deeper and exploring your future prospects.

  1. Not every career requires it.

Listen up, folks. A postgrad qualification isn’t necessary for every career out there. In fact, there are very few career paths that require a postgrad as a prerequisite. If you’re aiming for a career in medicine, nursing, teaching, psychology, or anything within the science or research sector, a postgraduate degree will often be beneficial. But for most industries, it’s your attitude, work ethic, experience, personality, and determination that will propel you to the top, not just your qualifications.

  1. It can cost a pretty penny.

Let’s talk about the cold, hard truth: Postgraduate tuition fees can be a hefty expense. We’re talking anywhere from £9,000 per year to over £30,000, with the average fee sitting at around £11,000. And guess what? They can be even higher for international students. But fret not! There are funding options available, such as government loans, grants, bursaries, research council grants, scholarships from employers or institutions, and some universities even offer alumni discounts. Make sure to explore these options before jumping into a loan. Also, consider how you’ll repay the loan after your course, especially if you already have an undergraduate loan to tackle.

  1. It may boost your earnings in the long run.

Here’s the silver lining, my friend. Statistics have shown that having a postgrad degree can lead to higher earnings over time. However, if your chosen career doesn’t prioritize a postgrad, it’s unlikely to result in a higher starting wage. So, weigh the financial pros and cons and consider the long-term benefits before making your decision.

  1. It’s a networking opportunity.

Prepare to expand your professional network, my soon-to-be postgrad pal! Many former postgrad students credit their courses for the valuable contacts they made along the way. You’ll have access to professionals in your field who may open doors to employment opportunities down the line. But keep in mind that networking opportunities can vary between universities, so do your research when selecting your preferred courses. And remember, a significant chunk of networking can also come from being out in the real world—working, volunteering, interning, or gaining relevant experience.

  1. You can work and study at the same time.

Who says you have to choose between work and postgrad study? Many courses offer flexibility, allowing you to balance your studies with a job. You can study in the evenings or on weekends, and some employers may even let you go part-time, take a sabbatical, or have study leave. This way, you can keep earning money while applying what you learn in real-life situations and advancing your career. Just be prepared—it can be exhausting, so it might not be the best option if you have other major commitments.

  1. A degree isn’t always necessary.

Believe it or not, some postgrad programs don’t require an undergraduate degree. Certain companies, professional bodies, and a limited number of further education colleges offer courses for postgrads that bypass the need for a degree. In these cases, you’ll typically need to demonstrate your subject knowledge and ability to get accepted. So, don’t let the absence of a degree hold you back if you’re interested in a specific postgrad program.

  1. Apply to multiple courses.

Remember the golden rule: don’t put all your eggs in one basket. There are no strict rules on how many postgrad courses you can apply to, so why not increase your chances of getting accepted by applying to more than one? Just keep in mind that each application process can be lengthy and require some serious effort. Stick to similar courses to streamline the process and avoid overwhelming yourself.

  1. Apply early, like really early.

Time is of the essence, my friend. For courses starting in September or October, you’ll need to submit your applications by June or July. We highly recommend applying at least six months in advance to give yourself ample time to sort out finances, accommodation, travel arrangements, and maybe even your visa. International students, this is especially crucial for you—plan four extra months in advance. Keep in mind that different courses have different start dates, so double-check with your course provider for specific deadlines.

  1. It’s a different vibe from undergrad.

Get ready for a whole new postgrad experience, and it’s not like your undergrad days. One common feeling among postgrads is a sense of loneliness, at least initially. Many of your friends will have moved back home or entered full-time employment. Staying in touch might be a challenge due to different lifestyles and heavier workloads. Postgrad courses also tend to have fewer contact hours, and class sizes are smaller. Don’t expect the same hype and excitement of undergrad Fresher’s Week. But fear not! There are things you can do to combat the postgrad loneliness. Connect with your fellow students early on, attend any postgrad ice-breaker events organized by your university, and if those aren’t enough, plan your own social gatherings. Coffee meetings, study groups, or a casual evening with a glass of wine can be fantastic ways to bond with your peers.

  1. Self-discipline is key.

Get ready to embrace your inner self-discipline guru! On a postgrad course, you’ll likely see your tutor only a couple of times a week, and even less during the dissertation period. That means you’ll have loads of time for private study. So, self-discipline becomes paramount for your success. If you’re the kind of person who needs external motivation, like a tutor pushing you, it might be a challenge to stay on top of your workload. But if you’re a self-sufficient individual who loves setting their own routine, this will be a breeze for you.

So there you have it, 11 nuggets of wisdom to help you prepare for your postgrad adventure. We hope these tips make your journey a little smoother. And hey, if you have any other tips of your own, we’d love to hear them! Good luck, future postgrad superstar!

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10 Things You Need to Know Before Joining University

Ten Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting University

You’ve slogged your way through secondary school and managed to achieve the necessary grades for your chosen university. What a buzz!

We bet you feel a full range of emotions – right?

Maybe you’re already picturing yourself walking through the uni’s campus, socialising with friends and the day you receive your degree whilst wearing the coveted cap and gown…whatever you’re dreaming of, it’ll soon be reality.

But wait a minute, let’s back up a bit and go stick with the present.

There’s lots to think about once you’ve decided on where you’re going and which student accommodation you’ll be living in.

Your first few months of university life might be confusing, but that’s why we’re here to give you a helping hand.

We’re the experts in all things uni, y’know, since we’re a student accommodation company?

So, we’ve compiled a list of five things that (generally) students wish they knew before starting university!

1. Prepare For Independent Living

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For years, you might have been raring for the independence of living alone, with none of your parents meddling in your affairs.

However, independence is not something you’ll enjoy if you haven’t prepared for it.

Forget having your laundry done, dinner prepped and your lunch packed, this new way of life will leave you to fend for yourself.

As a matter of fact, you’ll probs find popping home for a weekend is like living in the lapse of luxury! You won’t take it for granted ever again.

So, in order to prepare, why not try learning a few new recipes and house chores? Or, at least understand how to cook simple meals and use a washing machine…maybe that’s a good start?!

It may not seem like much fun, but we promise it’ll help massively when you move to university.

2. DON’T Blow Your Student Loan!

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Learning how to handle your money will not only affect your student life but will also impact how you handle your money as an adult after graduation.

As a student starting university, you now have the freedom of living away from home and handling finances off your own bank. More importantly, your student loan.

And no, that doesn’t mean splashing your loan in the first week…as much as we know you’d love to spoil yourself!

We advise you to budget a little and save your money for when you really need it.

Don’t forget you literally have to pay for everything, such as your accommodation, food, laundry and funding your nights out.

Now think about it, you wouldn’t wanna cancel a night out ‘cos you’ve blown your money on the latest designer bag – would you?

Some students find having a part-time job alongside their studies helps them manage their wages. It’s a fab idea and can even be a great way to make some new pals.

We wouldn’t suggest having a full-time job as you might struggle to balance your course and lifestyle.

3. Annoying Flatmates Alert

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If you’re living in shared student accommodation, then you need to prepare to not like everyone.

Mainly, you’ll get along with most of the individuals in your flat, but there might be the odd one or two that just do your head in (and that’s okay!).

Don’t put pressure on yourself to like everyone you live with, ‘cos you’ll begin to feel like you’re the issue if you do.

Your new friends are just as excited as you to begin the student life! Just prepare for what’s to come, such as a messy flatmate who doesn’t wash up or a party animal who’s up till early hours of the morning!

4. You Probs Won’t Need To Pay £££ For Your Reading List.

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Some of your books online will cost hundreds of pounds and it’s worth knowing that you don’t have to pay that much when starting university.

There are so many other ways you can get a hold of textbooks you need for your course.

Firstly, your library will have a huge stash of books, so why not just hire it for the period you need to use it? Oh, and make sure to take it back ‘cos you don’t want the library staff on your back.

They will also have an online library which you will be given access to at the start of the year. From here, you can search to see if it’s available to be read online.

Honestly, this will save you SO much £££ that you’ll be able to book that night out with your extra income!

If you do need to buy a course book ‘cos you can’t get it online, then deffo search around on Ebay and Facebook Marketplace for them second hand.

5. Forget Leaving Your Deadlines Till The Night Before

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Well, it’s your personal preference how you decide to tackle your deadlines before starting university, but just don’t leave them ‘til the night before…please.

Not only will you regret it, you’ll end up with a completely messed up bedtime routine and a crappy piece of work.

You’re best prepping a while in advance of deadlines and doing little bits here and there.

It’ll just make your life so much easier and way more enjoyable.

6. First Year Doesn’t Count (But That’s No Excuse!)

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Honestly, it might not count towards your degree classification, but it sure has a massive impact on your academic ability and knowledge.

We bet you’ll feel way more prepared for second and third year if you get the foundation set when starting uni.

Don’t be one of those students that says ‘oh, I wish I knew that’ or ‘no one told me it would help’ – you heard it here first, so go get those good grades!

7. Homesickness Is Real

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While it may be easy to get caught up in your new study load and activities, it would be helpful to keep your relationship with your family and closest friends strong.

There will be times when you will feel homesick and alone while you juggle through multiple projects and exams, and the best comfort can come from knowing that you have a strong support system behind you.

You may not know it, but your family might also be worrying about how you are doing, and a call from you can also ease their anxiety, knowing that you are okay.

Even simple things like giving them a quick facetime or sending a little message. You’re bound to feel better in yourself if you do, so do it for your mental health and for your family’s sake.

Don’t feel alone if you’re feeling homesick, there’ll be so many students who’re in the same boat as you! It’s important to acknowledge and get help ASAP!

8. Pace Yourself During Freshers Week

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Oh gosh, now this is a biggggg one!

Don’t try to impress your new friends on the first night, honestly, you’ll only end up being bed ridden with a sore head.

Induction week will be happening alongside freshers, so making sure you pace yourself so you can head to uni the next day is essential.

It’s also suggested to not spend too much money during this week. There’s going to be so many events on and it’s important you manage your time well.

9. Think Ahead

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It’s never too early for you to think and plan for the starting university.

Why not begin researching what societies you might like to get involved in? Your student union website will be super helpful for this.

Or, you could even look around at activities to do in your new city as a student!

10. Start Getting Excited!

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Now you know exactly what you need to smash your way through university, it’s time to start getting excited about your first year!

Soon enough, you’ll be heading to your student accommodation and saying goodbye to your childhood home.

This new chapter in your life is super exciting, so soak it in as much as you can! Most people who’ve been and done uni will be super jealous of you, so prepare to live the life everyone dreams of.

We hope you’ve learnt a lot from our blog – 10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting University! To help you out even further, we accept custom orders on academic projects.

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What International Students Can Expect in the UK

What International Students Can Expect in the UK

Hey there! So, you’re thinking about studying in the UK, huh? Well, let me tell you, despite the infamous drizzle, this place has got a lot going for it. It’s no wonder students from all over the world are flocking here. Let me give you the lowdown on what to expect (raincoats not included!).

Landmarks

First off, let’s talk landmarks. The UK is like a treasure trove of iconic sights that will make your jaw drop and your Instagram feed explode. From Buckingham Palace and Big Ben to the Angel of the North and Edinburgh Castle, this place is a visual feast. The Brits take pride in their history, preserving these landmarks so that future generations can learn and appreciate what makes this country tick.

Scenery

But it’s not just about the famous spots. The UK is also blessed with some breathtaking scenery. Get ready to be blown away by stunning landscapes that will make you feel like you’re living in a postcard. And the best part? You can easily explore these sights thanks to the fantastic public transport system in university cities. So, hop on a bus or a train and go on an adventure!

Transport

Speaking of public transport, let me tell you, it’s a student’s best friend here. It’s like they designed it just for us! Whether you need to go to class or explore the city, the public transport network has got you covered. And fear not, my friend, you’ll quickly become a pro at navigating it. Soon enough, you’ll be zipping around like a local.

Food

Now, let’s talk food. The UK may not be known for its Michelin-starred cuisine, but we’re a nation of foodies. Fish and chips may be our claim to fame, but there’s so much more to enjoy. Ever heard of a full English fry-up breakfast? It’s a glorious way to start the day. And who can resist a good old Sunday roast dinner? Plus, we’re always up for trying new dishes, so don’t be shy about sharing your culinary delights with your new friends. Food brings people together, and trust me, it’s an excellent ice-breaker.

Pubs

Oh, and did I mention pubs? The UK loves its pubs. They’re like social hubs where friends gather to chat, complain about their bosses, watch football, or even have a cozy date. For students, pubs are a big part of the nightlife in university cities. So, get ready to find your “local” and make it your go-to spot for the next few years. Just remember to drink responsibly!

Bottom Line

So, there you have it—just a taste of what the UK has to offer for international students like yourself. From jaw-dropping landmarks to stunning scenery, convenient public transport, delicious food, and lively pubs, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. Get ready to embrace the rain and make some incredible memories. Cheers to your UK adventure!

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Moving In to Your Student Home – Tips and Hacks

Move In to Your Student Home

Moving into your student home is an exciting milestone, but the process of actually moving in can be stressful and tiring. Whether you’re relocating from a nearby location or a long distance away, there are a few strategies that can make the process easier for you.

Color code your boxes by function: Instead of cramming items into boxes randomly, pack them based on their intended areas in your student home. For example, keep all bathroom items in one box and kitchenware in another. To make it easier, use different colors to label each box according to its function. This way, you’ll know exactly where each box belongs, save time when unpacking, and reduce the chances of losing items.

Efficient packing saves space: While color coding may require more boxes, you can maximize space by packing efficiently. For instance, instead of using bubble wrap, you can wrap fragile items like glasses and mugs in kitchen towels to save space. By optimizing your packing, you’ll have more room for important items and potentially require fewer boxes overall.

Use a foldable sack truck for moving boxes: One of the most challenging aspects of moving is physically transporting the boxes from your vehicle to your room, especially if they contain heavy items like TVs. Investing in a foldable sack truck can make this task much easier. These portable metal structures are designed to wheel boxes and reduce the strain on your body. They are commonly used in warehouses and can significantly speed up the moving process.

By following these tips, you can streamline the moving-in process to your student home, save time and energy, and ensure a smoother transition into your new living space.

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Use of AI to Write Assignments, Is it Worth It?

Since it was first developed in November 2022, ChatGPT has taken the academic world by storm. In this digital age, students can use artificial intelligence text generators like this one to write essays and assignments for them.

Sure enough it’s a useful tool as it can produce answers to questions on a variety of subjects or even when the subject doesn’t exist (break up songs in the style of Tailor Swift, anyone?).

But despite all the fun and potential, there’s no denying the risks which come along with using technology like this whilst studying at university – most notably, but not limited to academic plagiarism.

Bending the rules, or if we want to be more straightforward – cheating, has always existed in academia; from students paying others to complete their assignments for them, to the old fashioned sneaking in notes to exams,copying answers from friends, or copy and pasting information found online, and so forth.

It’s not a new phenomenon for any generation but Gen-Z has managed to take the challenge to a new level. The perfect recipe for a disaster if you’re a teacher or a lecturer – “fake writing” is becoming harder to spot and easier to do as technology develops.

The question is, does it really work? What are the risks of using software like ChatGPT and other AI-powered copywriting variations as a university student?

ChatGPT students

Does Using Artificial Intelligence Really Work?

Whether you’re a fan of it or not, there’s no denying that artificial Intelligence has begun taking over the world, with art and literature being the starting points for the rapidly growing technology. And as with any new trend, it makes sense that GenZ students are eagerly jumping on the craze.

It’s not just text to image creations that artificial intelligence programmes can produce, they are now able to generate written content from essays to assignments, to poems, to emails, to song lyrics and blog posts – the opportunities are endless.

One of the most notable AI writing software’s is ChatGPT which can help create content in a matter of seconds.

The chatbot was developed by Open AI, the same company which produced DALL-E, and uses natural language processing and machine learning algorithms to produce many forms of written word.

This free software can help replace spending hours on Google or (so ancient) at the library, as you can ask it questions and prompts in a human-like conversation.

Need a list of the best restaurants in your local area – you’ve got it. Last-minute assignment – ChatGPT can write an essay on a specific subject, just add the quotes.

Nervous about writing a cover letter for your university application or first job – you guessed it, it can do that.

In just the first five days of the software’s release it reached 1 million users and it doesn’t stop there.

Now a few months on, more and more people across the globe are tuning in to use the technological game changer, especially those in academia.

Does Using Artificial Intelligence Really Work? 

How To Use ChatGPT

If you’re wanting to try out ChatGPT for yourself, you simply need to sign up to make an account with your email and you can begin to type in prompts and gain detailed responses.

ChatGPT is available to use on both desktop and mobile with an easy navigation on both interfaces, so you can take your pick between either. We tried the large language model out on both a desktop and phone, both are easy to use and you can simply begin asking questions right away.

ChatGPT on desktop: 

ChatGPT on desktop: 

ChatGPT on mobile: 

ChatGPT on mobile: 

We asked ChatGPT several different prompts, including asking it to write an essay for us on artificial intelligence, it took only seconds for an answer to be generated.

chatgpt write essay

We then typed in “explain academic plagiarism in simple terms” to which the AI programme produced a quick human-like response. You can even ask it to regenerate the response for a new answer.

explain academic plagiarism chatgpt

Try it out for yourself and see what prompts you come up with, and what the responses are.

The AI software is currently free as it’s in research preview, meaning the creators are gaining users’ feedback and learning about the strengths and weaknesses. It’s likely in the future there will be costs to use ChatGPT, once it’s fully developed.

And considering its current popularity amongst the GenZ in higher education, will students get a discount?

What Are The Risks For Students?

Artificial intelligence opens up so many possibilities for the future of academia, but software like ChatGPT raises too many questions for the modern education system.

The whole purpose of writing assignments whilst at university is to learn how to write and develop skills which will not only take students through the degree, but into their adult life too.

However, let’s be realistic – students have been trying to find shortcuts around writing assignments since the beginning of time (or at least since the first university).

If the technology is available, and even more temptingly – completely free, it is almost naive to think it won’t be quickly put into practice.

Whilst the new artificial intelligence tool can be undoubtedly useful, it can be just as dangerous for the new generation of students who utilise this technology. If you’re going to use ChatGPT, you should be aware of the risks it poses.

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Academic Plagiarism

Currently it may be hard to detect whether an assignment or essay is produced by an AI software like ChatGPT as it’s a completely new phenomenon, but it’s not impossible.

Research suggests that Turnitin will be able to catch students who have used AI within their assignments in the near future.

It’s not just plagiarism checkers which can help determine whether content is written using softwares like ChatGPT, universities themselves may be able to tell whether their students have used it to write essays or assignments.

We all have our own individual writing style, and your lecturers will know how you write. It is not impossible to imagine a future in which an entry in-person exam is introduced to simply familiarise lecturers with someone’s writing.

It might sound even wilder, but going back to a fully pen and paper exam season is also a possibility. Students who start churning out text-book level responses which are first class standard will more than likely get alarm bells ringing, especially if they don’t compare to previous submissions.

Academic plagiarism is a serious form of cheating and misconduct which can have huge consequences, including impacting your university place.

Universities in the USA have already banned the use of the software on their servers. Australian universities are returning to traditional methods of assessments of pen and paper due to students being caught using AI to write essays.

Lecturers within the UK have been urged to look at the way courses are assessed due to concerns over the AI tool. Could UK universities be next to ban the software?

Academic Plagiarism 

Accuracy Of Content

If you’ve already used ChatGPT, you may have noticed that it’s not able to answer every single prompt that you type in.

This is because its data only goes up to 2021 so it currently only has knowledge of the world and events before this time, and it also is able to reject inappropriate requests.

Further limitations of ChatGPT is that it occasionally generates incorrect information as it’s not a search engine, which means it doesn’t search the internet for information and instead uses data to produce responses.

So, of course this can lead to a very inaccurate essay submission. Artificial intelligence softwares like ChatGPT cannot replace human creativity (just yet)!

Accuracy Of Content chatGPT

Crisis To Learning

Aside from the risks involved with academic plagiarism from using artificial intelligence software’s, it can also lead to a learning and development crisis because students won’t build critical thinking and problem solving skills.

The skills and knowledge you gain from writing assignments and essays at university are not only a way to grade work and determine academic capability, they’re also knowledge and practice which will be carried into the working world following graduation.

At the end of the day, in the majority of cases students are the ones paying for their own education so as the saying goes, you’re only kidding yourself by using AI to write assignments.

Writing for exams and other assessments will remain a necessary skill, even though AI is here to stay.

We’re not suggesting the use of artificial intelligence softwares like ChatGPT is completely negative, as it’s all down to how they’re used, but it can be problematic.

crisis to learning chatgpt

Moderate Use

We all know the phrase everything’s good in moderation, and it applies in this instance too.

Using artificial intelligence softwares for research purposes can be great, but one must ask themselves what skills are gained from copying and pasting AI produced content for a degree that is meant to broaden the mind?

Is it really worth the money spent on tuition fees? Perhaps this method of cheating on academic writing may even fill us with guilt, or at least lead to awkward situations in the future?

We’d suggest if you’re going to use artificial intelligence, to use it wisely. It can be a great way to get the spark going, or save some time on repetitive writing, or help with brainstorming ideas on keywords or topics for the slightly less-creative minds out there.

We’d say use and learn from software’s such as ChatGPT, but make sure not to rely on them.

moderate use of chatgpt

Does The Education System Need To Adapt?

Artificial intelligence may place many implications on global education systems, but it can undeniably be a useful tool which can help modernise academia, rather than ruin it.

As technology develops, so does how we’re taught and how we learn. If we take a look at how technology has revolutionised the UK education system for Gen-Z, do you remember the first time electrical whiteboards were introduced into your primary school? Or when you were first taught about virtual learning environments in high school?

We wouldn’t have been able to achieve effective learning during the pandemic without the use of technology and online resources either. Whilst it may be a completely different ball game with the developments in artificial intelligence, these types of software could be used to aid learning rather than threaten it.

In the years to come, artificial intelligence is only going to become more modernised and develop further, so isn’t it best for entrepreneurial GenZs to get on board with it as early as possible? Should universities and academic institutions learn to coexist with artificial intelligence technologies?

From an academic perspective, there’s no denying there are plenty of possibilities. Artificial intelligence software’s may be immensely useful tools, and allow students the ability to write quickly and effortlessly, but it doesn’t mean they come without consequence.

education system chatgpt

Perhaps educating students on how to effectively use artificial intelligence software’s in a way which isn’t plagiarism or impacts their learning and critical thinking is the starting point for educators. 

Whilst AI certainly works for writing assignments, it doesn’t mean the pros outweigh the cons. It’s important that students understand the risks and implications from using AI tools in academia. 

If you’re caught using ChatGPT in your assignments the consequences can be serious, including impacting your university status. Is a quick and easy fix from writing your assignments or essays yourself worth the consequences?

On the hunt for the ideal assignment help? Check out our order page.

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