The Honestly Honours Podcast explores and demystifies the University of Melbourne MDHS Honours program through real insights and practical guidance from students, staff, and mentors.
From what Honours is and how to apply, to where it can take you and how to succeed, this series breaks down every stage of the journey with clear, student-focused insights.
Produced by Video and Media (https://www.unimelb.edu.au/tli/vm/podcasts-and-vodcasts)
What’s the Honours Alumni Mentoring Program—and is it worth joining? In this final episode of the Honestly Honours Podcast, Ryan is joined by current PhD students to unpack how mentoring works and why it can make a difference. From having a safe space to ask questions to building confidence, navigating uncertainty, and gaining perspective beyond your lab, they share how mentoring supports both your research and your overall experience. Whether you’re starting Honours or considering becoming a mentor, this episode explores how mentoring can shape your experience—and the value it offers on both sides.
25 Mar 2026
Episode 9. Success Moments
What does success actually look like in Honours? In this episode of the Honestly Honours Podcast, Ryan is joined by recent graduates to explore the moments that define a successful year—both big and small. From experiments finally working and presenting at conferences to finding balance, building confidence, and realising how much you’ve learned, they share what success looked like for them in practice. If you’re wondering whether you’re “doing it right,” this episode explores how success in Honours goes far beyond grades—and often shows up when you least expect it.
25 Mar 2026
Episode 8. Pressure, Burnout, and Support
How do you handle pressure, burnout, and everything in between during Honours? In this episode of the Honestly Honours Podcast, Ryan is joined by students and a coordinator to unpack the realities of stress throughout the year—and what actually helps. From managing time and expectations to navigating uncertainty, comparison, and self-doubt, they share honest insights into why things can feel overwhelming and how to respond. If you’re looking for ways to stay grounded and supported, this episode explores how to navigate the pressure and look after yourself throughout the year.
Wellbeing Support
The University of Melbourne offers a range of free and confidential wellbeing services
Counselling and Psychological Services (CAPS): Offers short-term counselling, mental health consultations and wellbeing workshops https://services.unimelb.edu.au/counsel
After-hours Mental Health Crisis Line: Call 1300 219 459 or text 0485 826 595 — available weekdays from 5pm—9am and 24/7 on weekends and public holidays https://services.unimelb.edu.au/counsel/emergency-and-crisis-support
Chaplaincy
All religions and faith groups: https://students.unimelb.edu.au/student-support/health-and-wellbeing/faith-and-spirituality
Indigenous Students
https://murrupbarak.unimelb.edu.au/
Telephone: 13 MELB (13 6352)
Safer Community Program
https://safercommunity.unimelb.edu.au
Telephone: 03 9035 8675
For a complete list of university services available to students please visit:
http://services.unimelb.edu.au/finder
25 Mar 2026
Episode 7. What I’d Tell My Year Ago Self
What do students wish they knew before starting Honours? In this episode of the Honestly Honours Podcast, Ryan is joined by recent graduates to share the lessons that only come with experience. From managing uncertainty and staying organised to building confidence and asking for help, they unpack what actually makes a difference once you’re in the thick of it. If you’re about to start Honours or just getting settled, this episode explores how to approach the year with the right mindset—and make the most of it.
25 Mar 2026
Episode 6. A Life in Research
What does a life in research actually look like? In this episode of the Honestly Honours Podcast, Ryan is joined by Dr Sarah Best, Laboratory Head at WEHI, to explore what it’s really like to build a career in research. From finding your path to leading a lab and navigating the highs and challenges of research, Sarah shares honest insights into the day-to-day reality of the field. If you’re considering research but aren’t sure where it could lead, this episode offers a grounded look at what a career in research can involve.
25 Mar 2026
Episode 5. The Path Less Taken
What if you don’t want to do a PhD after Honours? In this episode of the Honestly Honours Podcast, Ryan is joined by staff from across MDHS coursework programs to explore alternative pathways beyond research. From optometry and physiotherapy to audiology and speech pathology, they unpack what graduate coursework degrees actually involve, who they suit, and how they can lead to diverse and flexible careers. If you’re considering your next step and want to understand your options, this episode explores how coursework pathways can open doors in different directions.
25 Mar 2026
Episode 4. The Stepping Stone
Where can Honours actually take you—and is a PhD the right next step? In this episode of the Honestly Honours Podcast, Ryan is joined by current PhD students to explore how Honours can shape your future and what the research pathway really looks like. From testing whether research is right for you to building independence, managing uncertainty, and developing transferable skills, they share how Honours helped clarify their direction. If you’re considering a PhD or want to understand where Honours can lead, this episode explores how the year can open doors—and help you decide what comes next.
25 Mar 2026
Episode 3. Relationship is Key
What is the student–supervisor relationship really like in Honours? In this episode of the Honestly Honours Podcast, Ryan and guests unpack how this dynamic works—and how it evolves over the year. From setting expectations and navigating communication to making the most of meetings and handling feedback, they share what students often misunderstand and what actually makes the relationship successful. If you want to build a strong working relationship and get the most out of your Honours year, this episode unpacks what helps the student - supervisor dynamic work well.
25 Mar 2026
Episode 2. The Application Process
How do you actually land an Honours project? In this episode of the Honestly Honours Podcast, Ryan and guests break down the application process—from finding the right project to reaching out to supervisors. They share practical tips on standing out, handling rejection, and why persistence matters more than getting it perfect the first time. From cold emails to chatting with lecturers, this episode covers real strategies that worked (and what didn’t). If you’re feeling stuck or unsure where to start, this is your guide to navigating the Honours search with confidence.
25 Mar 2026
Episode 1. What is Honours? Really.
What is The University of Melbourne MDHS Honours actually like—and is it worth it? In this first episode of the Honestly Honours Podcast, Ryan chats with three former MDHS Honours students about their real experiences. From working in labs and hospitals to navigating flexible schedules and unexpected challenges, they share what surprised them most, what a typical day looks like, and the skills they gained along the way. If you’re unsure about Honours or just want a clearer picture of what to expect, this episode breaks it down—honestly.
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