In this episode of Thrive, we’re joined by chartered psychologist Matthew Shaw from InnerDrive, a cognitive science company that helps people learn, perform, and thrive. Matthew shares evidence-based strategies for studying more effectively, managing time, building habits, and preparing for exams—backed by research in psychology and cognitive science.

Whether you're a first-year student or heading into finals, this episode is packed with practical, science-backed advice to help you study smarter, not harder.

In this episode, you'll learn

• How to prepare for, engage with, and follow up on university lectures
• The Cornell method of note-taking and why it works
• Why repetition and active recall are essential for long-term memory
• How to use the “production effect” to deepen your understanding
• What the “planning fallacy” is and how to avoid it
• The difference between procrastination, poor time management, and lack of motivation
• How to build and stick to productive habits—even when you’re not feeling motivated
• The truth about common revision myths (like highlighting and music)
• Why sleep is critical for memory and learning
• The importance of asking for help and planning ahead

Resources mentioned in this episode

• InnerDrive – Free resources on study skills, memory, sleep, and performance (check out their blog)
• Cornell Note-Taking Method – A structured approach to effective note-taking.
• National Sleep Foundation – Guidelines and advice on sleep.

Get in Touch

To provide feedback on what you’ve heard, recommend ideas you’d like to hear in future episodes, or if you’d like to be interviewed, contact us via the form at www.salford.ac.uk/skills/thrive .

Acknowledgements

This podcast was made with the assistance of Salford Business School.

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/seize-the-day

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Thrive, we meet Sikandar Matharu, an Acoustical and Audio Engineering student at the University of Salford, who shares his transformative experience of completing a placement year in Germany. From working on cutting-edge audio projects in the automotive industry to navigating life in a new country, Sikandar opens up about the professional, personal, and academic growth that came from stepping outside his comfort zone, and the impact of an ADHD diagnosis on university life and productivity.

Whether you're considering a placement year, thinking about studying abroad, or just curious about how to make the most of university life, this episode is packed with honest reflections and practical advice.

In this episode, you'll learn

• What it’s like to do a placement year abroad
• The real-world benefits of applying academic theory in industry
• How to adapt to a new culture, language, and working environment
• Tips for managing finances during a paid placement year
• How to build a social life and overcome loneliness abroad
• Why taking a gap year can help you find clarity and direction
• How to build confidence and make friends through shared interests
• The impact of an ADHD diagnosis on university life and productivity

Get in Touch

To provide feedback on what you’ve heard, recommend ideas you’d like to hear in future episodes, or if you’d like to be interviewed, contact us via the form at www.salford.ac.uk/skills/thrive .

Acknowledgements

This podcast was made with the assistance of Salford Business School.

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/seize-the-day

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Looking for practical ways to boost your mental health and wellbeing as a student? In this episode of Thrive, we explore the powerful connection between writing and emotional resilience with PhD student and Mental Health First Aider Alex Herod, whose research explores how creative writing, (especially in the horror genre!) may support wellbeing.

Discover how writing can help manage anxiety, build emotional awareness, and foster personal growth—even if you don’t consider yourself a writer. Whether you're navigating university life or simply looking for new self-care strategies, this episode offers expert insights and actionable tips to help you thrive.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How journaling and expressive writing can support mental health
• Grounding and breathing techniques for anxiety and stress
• The benefits of gratitude and habit-building for emotional resilience
• Why horror writing can be surprisingly therapeutic
• How to start writing for wellbeing—no experience needed

Resources mentioned in this episode

• The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron

Get in Touch

To provide feedback on what you’ve heard, recommend ideas you’d like to hear in future episodes, or if you’d like to be interviewed, contact us via the form at www.salford.ac.uk/skills/thrive .

Acknowledgements

This podcast was made with the assistance of Salford Business School.

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/seize-the-day

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Thrive, we sit down with final-year Business and Finance student Aya Nagore, founder and president of the University of Salford’s Networking Society. Aya shares her journey from arriving in the UK without speaking English to becoming a student leader passionate about self-improvement, productivity, and helping others grow.

From time management hacks to launching a student society, Aya offers practical advice for students looking to take control of their time, boost their mental health, and make the most of university life—whether you're living on campus or commuting. Aya’s story is a powerful reminder that with the right mindset, tools, and support, you can thrive at university and beyond.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How to start and grow a successful student society
• The importance of networking for personal and professional growth
• Aya’s top productivity hacks, including how to build a weekly schedule
• How to balance university, work, and social life
• The power of self-improvement and how to get started
• Tips for commuter students to make the most of their travel time
• How to transition from college to university learning styles
• Why mental and physical health are essential to productivity
• How to use tools like calendars, to-do lists, and apps to stay organized

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Structured – A free time-blocking app for organizing your day
• Notion – A powerful all-in-one productivity tool Aya calls her “second brain”
• 16Personalities – A free online personality test to help with career direction: 16personalities.com
• LinkedIn Learning – Free with many university accounts, offering professional development courses and certifications (University of Salford students can access it for free here)
• Books:
• The 5AM Club by Robin Sharma – A motivational guide to mastering your mornings
• Atomic Habits by James Clear – A bestselling book on building good habits and breaking bad ones

Get in Touch

To provide feedback on what you’ve heard, recommend ideas you’d like to hear in future episodes, or if you’d like to be interviewed, contact us via the form at www.salford.ac.uk/skills/thrive .

Acknowledgements

This podcast was made with the assistance of Salford Business School.

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/seize-the-day

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Thrive, the podcast that helps you succeed in study, work, and life at university. In this first episode, we explore the science and importance of sleep with consultant clinical psychologist Dr. Jill McGarry, better known as the Sleep Better Doctor.

Jill shares practical advice and fascinating insights into how sleep affects your memory, emotions, creativity, and overall well-being—especially during your university years. Whether you're a night owl, a nap newbie, or just trying to get through exam season, this episode will help you understand your sleep better—and make it work for you.

• Why sleep is essential for memory, emotional processing, and physical recovery.
• What happens to your brain when you pull an all-nighter.
• How sleep patterns change with age and culture.
• The science behind napping—and how to do it right.
• How caffeine, sugar, and energy drinks affect your sleep.
• Whether it's okay to scroll your phone in bed.
• How to manage sleep when you're stressed or facing deadlines.
• What to do if you're struggling with long-term sleep issues.

Dr. Jill McGarry’s website: sleepbetterdoctor.co.uk – for more information or to get in touch.

To provide feedback on what you’ve heard, recommend ideas you’d like to hear in future episodes, or if you’d like to be interviewed, contact us via the form at www.salford.ac.uk/skills/thrive

This podcast was made with the assistance of Salford Business School.

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/seize-the-day

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.