5 tips to help you get the most out of a short time at UCL

As a PGT student, time is of the essence - quite literally. Most PGT courses only run for a year and so it’s crucial that you spend your time wisely, regarding both your studies and everything else that UCL has to offer. Just like any other venture you embark upon, university should be an experience - a period of academic enrichment, social engagement and personal development. Even if you're studying remotely to begin with, you can still get involved.

Do a little bit of research

With UCL being such a vast institution, the best way to keep up to date with everything that’s going on is by doing a little bit of research. Events and news are shared via UCL’s social media platforms and keeping up to speed will allow you to know what is happening on and around campus as well as online. 

Get ahead of the game in the summer 

As a PGT student, you may already know what you want out of UCL and so you could possibly contact clubs/societies/current UCL students prior to your start date - so that you’re all ready to go when term arrives. Many societies are offering online options to join and become a part of their community so don't let studying remotely stop you from joining in and finding your calling! For me, I actually joined a society committee during the summer holidays, which meant I was able to help plan upcoming events, meet new people and gain some experience all before my lectures began! Being part of a society helps you to engage yourself in things that you love as well as helping you establish a community on campus that will become your biggest support as the year progresses. 

Stand in elections 

Another way to make your time at UCL count is to stand in course, faculty, and student union elections. Everything from designing posters to public speaking and from painting banners to handing out leaflets will allow you to better know yourself and your peers. If you win the elections, it opens up a whole host of new experiences, such as sitting on academic boards, voicing a student opinion, judging competitions etc. But it’s not always the winning that matters, it really is the taking part that counts - it’s the connections you make, the new people you meet and the skills you develop. 

Get a paid/volunteer position at UCL 

If time permits, I would also recommend taking up a part time job/volunteering role at UCL. Again such experiences will allow you to meet a whole host of individuals from all different backgrounds, whilst also allowing you to develop transferable skills for any future employment.

Ask questions, make connections! 

Don’t forget that being a PG student at UCL connects you to some of the best academics in your field. Don’t be afraid to ask questions that extend beyond the taught material or for extra lab/workshop experience during breaks/after your degree finishes. 

UCL really does give students a platform to thrive upon; sometimes you just need to be adventurous enough to seek what is out there! 

Last revised: 8 September 2021

Ayesha Khan, Communications and Projects Adviser, UCL Student Support and Wellbeing