How to stand out in your university application: Advice from lecturers
A lot of applicants worry about trying to sound “perfect” in their university application. But that’s not actually what lecturers are looking for.
At a recent Open Day, we asked lecturers what really makes an application stand out. Here’s what they shared 👇
Debi Roberts (Engineering)
Show your passion for the subject. This could be work experience, wider reading, personal projects, or genuine curiosity. For engineering, that might even be being a huge motorsport fan. One example was an applicant who created a Grand Prix statistics booklet.
Craig Holdcroft (Business)
Lecturers want to understand your ambitions. Talk about your big ideas, your goals, and where you hope your degree will take you. Choosing a business course? How to pick the right uni.
Aidann Flynn (Law)
Be yourself. Your quirks and individuality matter far more than using fancy language or trying to sound impressive. Thinking of studying Law? Let's bust some myths.
Jo Basford (Education – Associate Professor & Course Director)
Real experience working with young people makes a big difference. This doesn’t have to be in a school, it could be Brownies, Scouts, sports clubs, or swim teaching. What matters is showing you can engage and inspire others.
Andy Wedgbury (Games)
Your portfolio can be a game changer. Focus on the skills you already have, the work you’re proud of, and what you want to develop further. Hear from our Head of Games, Chris Headleand, what games he's playing right now.
Natalie Dodge (Nursing – Head of Department)
Hands-on experience caring for others really stands out. Use your application to demonstrate compassion, courage, and the life skills that show you’re genuinely passionate about becoming a nurse. Here's more tips on how to stand out when applying to become a nurse or midwife.
Across all subjects, lecturers said the same thing:
Share real experiences and clearly link them to your subject and future career goals.
If you’re applying this year, the UCAS deadline is 14 January at 6pm (UK time).
If you’ve got questions about applications, personal statements, or choosing the right course, feel free to ask or join our Official Applicant thread. Happy to help 🙂
At a recent Open Day, we asked lecturers what really makes an application stand out. Here’s what they shared 👇
Debi Roberts (Engineering)
Show your passion for the subject. This could be work experience, wider reading, personal projects, or genuine curiosity. For engineering, that might even be being a huge motorsport fan. One example was an applicant who created a Grand Prix statistics booklet.
Craig Holdcroft (Business)
Lecturers want to understand your ambitions. Talk about your big ideas, your goals, and where you hope your degree will take you. Choosing a business course? How to pick the right uni.
Aidann Flynn (Law)
Be yourself. Your quirks and individuality matter far more than using fancy language or trying to sound impressive. Thinking of studying Law? Let's bust some myths.
Jo Basford (Education – Associate Professor & Course Director)
Real experience working with young people makes a big difference. This doesn’t have to be in a school, it could be Brownies, Scouts, sports clubs, or swim teaching. What matters is showing you can engage and inspire others.
Andy Wedgbury (Games)
Your portfolio can be a game changer. Focus on the skills you already have, the work you’re proud of, and what you want to develop further. Hear from our Head of Games, Chris Headleand, what games he's playing right now.
Natalie Dodge (Nursing – Head of Department)
Hands-on experience caring for others really stands out. Use your application to demonstrate compassion, courage, and the life skills that show you’re genuinely passionate about becoming a nurse. Here's more tips on how to stand out when applying to become a nurse or midwife.
Across all subjects, lecturers said the same thing:
Share real experiences and clearly link them to your subject and future career goals.
If you’re applying this year, the UCAS deadline is 14 January at 6pm (UK time).
If you’ve got questions about applications, personal statements, or choosing the right course, feel free to ask or join our Official Applicant thread. Happy to help 🙂
(edited 1 month ago)
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