uNIVERSITY AND yOU

University and You should be considered a core text in preparing new students for University life. Both authors delve into details on complex topics such as study skills, wellbeing, transferrable skills and graduate attributes in a highly interactive and engaging manner. The key terms and intended learning outcomes for each chapter are particularly helpful in navigating the reader through a wealth of material. Amidst a sea of study textbooks and University guides, this book balances informative literature with scholarly examples and creative engagement; a mixture of activities with analogies and personal reflection helping to prepare a new generation of readers as they embark upon their journey through higher education and beyond.


University and You Book Cover

university and you

Whether transitioning to university life or already studying, this book helps students recognize the breadth and value of the skills they’ll acquire through their curricular, co-curricular, and extra-curricular experiences. By understanding the importance of these skills, they will build confidence and see themselves as a maker of change.

The book emphasizes skills essential for the future, focusing on;

  • social responsibility,

  • community engagement,

  • developing a research mindset,

  • appreciating diversity,

  • self-leadership, and

  • collaboration.

It guides students through the process of building these key skills and discusses their significance in an ever-changing social context.

Centred on the student as an individual, their values, and what they can contribute to their student community, the book highlights the benefits of being an active participant. Insights from experienced students and practitioners offer diverse perspectives, grounding the information in real-world examples. Interactive activities and questions promote reflection and critical thinking, ensuring readers feel fully equipped throughout their university journey and beyond.

This accessible and easy-to-read guide is designed to support students every step of the way. Get ready to unlock potential and make the most of the university experience!

  • Cat Wilson

    Cat Wilson

    Catriona Wilson’s favourite memory of studying at university is being in charge of doing the shopping for the Psychology Society lunches, and sharing sandwiches with lots of inspirational psychologists. Now she is Director of The International Education and Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of St Andrews. Catriona is a Fellow of CIPD and has a Master’s in Organisational Psychology. She has 20 years of experience in skills development and is passionate  about improving the student experience. She recently led the introduction of the  graduate attributes framework at the University of St Andrews. Catriona is a champion of developing a holistic approach to skills development that integrates academic and professional skills, enabling students to achieve their potential during their studies and beyond.  

    Catriona’s LinkedIn 

  • Rebecca Wilson

    Rebecca Wilson

    Dr Rebecca Wilson’s favourite memory of studying at university is revising with classmates at the side of the campus lake on a surprisingly sunny day in Birmingham. Now Rebecca has over ten years’ experience of pioneering skills development in both Scotland and East Africa. She is a Head of Student Development at the University of St Andrews and holds a PhD in International Relations. She has practical experience of lecturing and tutoring students and specialises in the transition of students into university, including expertise in mentoring, study skills and the award-winning ‘Transitions Toolkit’. Rebecca is a strong advocate for equality and inclusivity in education. She excels in motivating others, helping them to reach their potential and understand previously inaccessible topics.   

    Rebecca’s LinkedIn 

resources


Listen to a podcast of the authors discussing what they believe are some of the challenges of being a student today, what made them write University and You, and how the book can help develop students ready for the future. [link to follow]

What People Are Saying

University and You should be considered a core text in preparing new students for University life. Amidst a sea of study textbooks and University guides, this book balances informative literature with scholarly examples and creative engagement; a mixture of activities with analogies and personal reflection helping to prepare a new generation of readers as they embark upon their journey through higher education and beyond.  

Lauren Christie, Academic Staff Developer, University of St Andrews

“It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”

— Quote Source

“It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”

— Quote Source

Contact Us

If you would like to invite the authors to your school or university to run a University and You workshop or give a talk, please get in touch.