NAVIGATING YOUR WAY THROUGH YOUR POSTGRADUATE STUDY

Your learning journey is unique to you. We all learn in different ways and at different speeds, so do not compare yourself to others in your class. Postgraduate study is different from undergraduate as the section on What are the key differences between undergraduate and postgraduate study in this handbook explains. At UEL, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Typical points in your first term and your year of postgraduate study

In your first term, you will be getting used to a whole range of new experiences. Some of these are highlighted below and you may experience common pressure points as you progress. This is perfectly normal so do not panic. Make sure you talk to somebody who can direct you to the right support.

Also make sure you pick up your hard copy of the Who’s Who Guide from The Hub on your campus which contains a range of helpful support contact details. Keep it accessible. Another source of useful advice is the Wellness Spheres site where you can hear advice from students, get top tips on how to deal with the typical pressure points, and access key information.

Pre-arrival

– Unsure what to expect.

– Knowing what questions to ask.

– Obtaining funding.

– Consideration of value versus cost.

Finding appropriate/affordable accommodation.

Arrival, orientation and induction to study in term 1

– Learning how to study at postgraduate taught level.

– Transitions issues: personal, finance, balancing workloads.

– First assessment at postgraduate taught level.

– Identifying skill ability and gaps.

– Expectations not being met.

– Realisation of choosing wrong course.

– Dealing with illness or family illness bereavement.

Managing technology and social relationships in-person and online.

Term 2

– Group assessment frustrations.

– Transitions issues: personal, finance, balancing workloads.

– Postgraduate study being different to expectations.

– Timing of activities disrupted.

– Relationships with fellow students and staff challenged by blended learning.

– Anxiety about alternative assessments and the impact on marks.

Final term and preparing to finish your studies

– Completing your dissertation/final project.

– Worried about results.

– Concern about employment.

– Will a Postgraduate qualification really make a difference?

– Not sure if an in-person graduation will take place.

Issues of moving from a structured, safe place to the unknown.

Loss of direction.

Challenges with the employment market.

Map of Opportunity

The Map of Opportunity is UEL’s gateway to help you in your studies and to provide advice and support to cope with some of the new experiences and typical pressure points mentioned above.

It comprises five core segments of your university experience which are: University entrance, Living, Working, Studying and Graduate Success. Wrapping around all the segments is Health, Wellbeing and the Active Campus and running through the centre is being Passionate About My Subject and Career

You will receive support across nine key areas to help you succeed. You will receive more information on this when you start.

New Start Entries

Settling in, making friends & trying new experiences Day 1 career-readiness

Preparing for study & TrackMyFuture

Preparing for assessment & getting the best result Need

My Health & Well-being