Queen's University Belfast - Advisor Exchange

QUB Podcasting Service

Welcome to the Advisor Exchange podcast! Join Dr Declan McLaughlin from the School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, and Olivia Hamill from the Centre for Educational Development as they delve into the intricacies of the Advisor of Studies role. Designed to demystify processes and share best practices, this conversational-style podcast offers a platform to exchange ideas, lived experiences, and insights into support department nuances. Whether you're new to the role or seeking to enhance your understanding, tune in to gain valuable insights and enjoy some enlightening conversations.

  1. Mar 23 ·  Video

    Advisor Exchange Ep 13; S2E5

    In this episode of Advisor Exchange, we’re delighted to be joined by Professor Judy Williams, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education and Students at Queen’s University Belfast. Judy shares her vision for education and the student experience at Queen’s, reflecting on the strategic priorities shaping teaching, learning, and support across the institution. We explore the vital role that Advisors of Studies play within this landscape, and how advising contributes to student success, belonging, and retention. This episode offers valuable insight into the intersection of leadership, education strategy, and day-to-day advising practice.

    37 min

  2. Feb 24 ·  Video

    Advisor Exchange Ep 12; S2E4

    In this episode of Advisor Exchange, we’re joined by Connie Craig-Lucey and Shalewa Adebowale from the Appeals, Conduct and Complaints Team at Queen’s University Belfast. Together, we unpack the processes that underpin student appeals, academic conduct, and complaints areas that advisors are often asked about but may not always feel fully confident navigating. Connie and Shalewa provide clarity on procedures, share practical guidance for Advisors of Studies, and explain how staff can best support students during what can often be stressful and complex situations. We explore common misconceptions, discuss the advisor’s role in maintaining fairness and transparency, and highlight the importance of clear communication and early support. This episode is essential listening for anyone involved in advising, student support, or academic leadership offering reassurance, insight, and practical takeaways to strengthen practice. Tune in to gain a clearer understanding of how appeals, conduct, and complaints processes work and how advisors can support students effectively and confidently.

    38 min

  3. Jan 22 ·  Video

    Advisor Exchange Ep 11; S2E3

    In this episode of Advisor Exchange, we’re joined by Johanna McMullan, Director of Education in the School of Nursing and Midwifery at Queen’s University Belfast, to explore academic advising within professional healthcare programmes. Johanna shares her perspective on the unique challenges and opportunities of advising students in nursing and midwifery; from supporting learners on demanding clinical placements to fostering resilience, professionalism, and wellbeing alongside academic success. Tune in for an engaging discussion on advising in healthcare education and what we can learn across disciplines.

    40 min

  4. 12/09/2025 ·  Video

    Advisor Exchange Ep 10; S2E2

    In this episode, we’re joined by Professor Phil Hanna to explore one of the most exciting and rapidly evolving topics in higher education, the future of Artificial Intelligence. Phil shares his insights on how AI is reshaping the academic landscape, from supporting teaching and learning to transforming the Advisor of Studies role. We discuss the opportunities AI offers to enhance student engagement, streamline support, and empower staff to focus on what matters most; meaningful human connection and guidance. Whether you’re curious about the ethical implications, practical applications, or future possibilities of AI in education, this episode offers plenty of food for thought.

    37 min

  5. 10/28/2025 ·  Video

    Advisor Exchange Ep 9; S2E1

    Advisor Exchange returns with a brand new series! In this opening episode, Declan and Olivia look ahead to what’s in store for Series 2, including exciting developments within the Advisors of Studies Community of Practice at Queen’s University Belfast. They discuss upcoming plans, new initiatives, and the many ways they hope to further support and connect Advisors across the university, building a stronger, collaborative network focused on enhancing the student experience. Tune in to hear what’s coming next and how you can get involved!

    38 min

  6. 11/19/2024 ·  Video

    Advisor Exchange Ep8; S1E8

    In this episode, we sit down with Taher Hatahet, an Advisor of Studies and Personal Tutor who works almost exclusively with international students. Taher shares his journey into this unique role and the insights he's gained from supporting students as they navigate academic and cultural challenges in a new environment. We explore the critical role of advisors in fostering student success, the importance of personalised guidance, and the strategies Taher employs to address the diverse needs of his international students. From tackling language barriers to helping students build a sense of belonging, Taher offers valuable tips for both advisors and students alike. Whether you're an educator looking to enhance your support for international learners or a student curious about what resources might be available to you, this episode is packed with practical advice and meaningful takeaways.

    37 min

  7. 09/30/2024 ·  Video

    Advisor Exchange Ep7; S1E7

    In this episode of Advisor Exchange, Olivia and Declan chat with Will Doggart, Disability Officer, and Rebecca Burns, Mental Health Advisor for Disability Services (now Accessible Learning Support) at Queen's University Belfast. Will and Rebecca share insights into the crucial services offered by the University to support students with disabilities and mental health challenges. They discuss their roles, the evolving needs of the student population, and how the university is adapting to meet these demands.

    57 min

  8. 09/05/2024 ·  Video

    Advisor Exchange Ep6; S1E6

    Declan and Oliva are joined by Dr Laura Collins, a Senior Lecturer (Education) in the Centre for Biomedical Sciences Education. Laura is a trained Biomedical Scientist and Programme Lead for BSc Biomedical Sciences at Queen's. She brings her experiences of working in many institutions across the UK to her work. As an Academic member of staff she is responsible for the teaching of her students, but also acts as Disability Officer within her Centre. As a disabled member of staff herself, Laura discusses her own experience of being a student, and how that has impacted and influenced her approaches towards teaching and supporting and advocating for students. If you have been affected by anything in this podcast, QUB People and Culture have resources for supporting staff members with a disability : https://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/HumanResources/managers/sickness-absence-toolkit/supporting-staff-with-a-disability/ For staff supporting students, Accessible Learning Support also has information on how to support and guide students: https://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/disability/

    52 min
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About

Welcome to the Advisor Exchange podcast! Join Dr Declan McLaughlin from the School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, and Olivia Hamill from the Centre for Educational Development as they delve into the intricacies of the Advisor of Studies role. Designed to demystify processes and share best practices, this conversational-style podcast offers a platform to exchange ideas, lived experiences, and insights into support department nuances. Whether you're new to the role or seeking to enhance your understanding, tune in to gain valuable insights and enjoy some enlightening conversations.

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