Understanding and Thriving at University

This section contains two recorded talks by Dr Lee Jones, which explain in more detail what a university education involves, how it differs from secondary education (schools), what that means for your experience as a student, and how you can perform to the very best of your ability at Queen Mary.

These are aimed primarily at new students, but many returning students will benefit from watching them. You can do so at any time, but we strongly recommend that you set aside some time to do this during Welcome Week. The talks are divided up into short chunks but will take about an hour in total to watch each in full.

From School to University: Understanding What Higher Education Involves

• Explains the key differences between school and university
• Explains what a university is, what “higher education” means and involves, and what your tutors are doing all day when they're not teaching you;
• Is important for everyone but especially useful to students who are the first in their families to attend university.

Thriving in Higher Education: How to Succeed in the School of Politics and International Relations

• Explains how the differences between school and university require you to work differently;
• Gives practical advice on how many hours you need to work per week, how best to approach your studies, and how to succeed on university-level assignments.