About Queen's University Belfast - Advisor Exchange
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.
In this episode of Advisor Exchange, we are joined by Dr Leanne Henderson, Senior Lecturer in Education at Queen’s University Belfast, to explore the importance of transitions in a student’s educational journey.
Leanne’s research focuses on educational trajectories and transitions, assessment and education policy, with a particular emphasis on understanding the perspectives and experiences of young people. Drawing on this expertise, we discuss what makes periods of transition so significant for students, from entering university and adapting to new expectations, to navigating changes in confidence, identity and their sense of belonging.
We consider the role that academic advisors can play in helping students make sense of these transitions, the importance of listening to the student voice, and why understanding the wider educational journey behind each student can help us provide more meaningful support.
The conversation also explores how seemingly small interactions can make a difference at important points in a student’s university experience, and what advisors can do to help students navigate change, challenge and uncertainty.
A thoughtful conversation about transitions, relationships and the value of seeing the student journey as much more than simply progression from one year of study to the next.
23 Mar 2026
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.
24 Feb 2026
Podcast - Shalewa Adebowale and Connie Craig-Lucey
22 Jan 2026
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.
9 Dec 2025
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.
28 Oct 2025
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!
19 Nov 2024
Advisor Exchange Ep 8
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.
30 Sept 2024
Advisor Exchange Ep7
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.
5 Sept 2024
Advisor Exchange Ep6
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/
14 Aug 2024
Advisor Exchange Ep5
In this episode, we speak to Dr Marc Edwards, jointly appointed as Lecturer (Education) in Centre for Dental Education and Research Fellow in the School of Psychology.
Marc discusses the highs and lows of being an Advisor of Studies, Lead Personal Tutor and Wellbeing Lead. He talks about approaches to building resilience in students, but also anti-fragility and 'bounce-back-ability'. Giving students the autonomy over their learning, academic and professional growth can be daunting, but equipping them with the skills to do this really empowers them to achieve their best. Careers in public facing healthcare also bring their own challenges, and Marc discusses how he and colleagues work with the professional bodies to make the transition to the world of work as smooth as possible.
Tune in and join in the conversations.
28 Jun 2024
Advisor Exchange Ep4
In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Jenny Brown, Quality Assurance and Regulations Manager from Academic Affairs. Jenny talks to us about about two critical resources for our students: the 'Exceptional Circumstances Policy' and the Assessment Support Hub. We look in-depth into how the 'Exceptional Circumstances Policy' is designed to support students facing unforeseen challenges, ensuring they have the necessary accommodations to succeed. Additionally, we chat about the Assessment Support Hub, a vital resource created to guide students through their assessments with expert advice and practical tips. Don't miss out on this informative and engaging conversation!
7 Jun 2024
Advisor Exchange Ep3
Important Note: This episode includes discussions on sensitive topics, including suicide. In this episode of Advisor Exchange, we have an enlightening conversation with Rob Doyle (Student Wellbeing Adviser, Team Lead). We explore the essential services that Rob and his team offers to support student wellbeing, including the various acronyms, abbreviations and mnemonics used in their work, and the crucial handover process, providing Advisors of Studies with valuable insights on what to expect when referring students to his team.
24 May 2024
Advisor Exchange Ep2
In the second of the two-part episode, Dr Aisling Keane and Dr Esha Barlaskar continue to give insight into their experiences as Advisors of Studies at Queen’s University Belfast. The discussion focuses on finding the balance in teaching by doing, guiding by showing, and stepping back when you know you have to. In difficult circumstances, it can be hard to always get things right, so what resources are in place to help with this and best support students?
15 May 2024
Advisor Exchange Ep1
In the first of a two-part episode, Dr Aisling Keane and Dr Esha Barlaskar offer their unique perspectives and lived experiences as Advisors of Studies at Queen’s University Belfast. Exploring their roles, they provide insights from both an experienced advisor and someone new to the position, offering diverse viewpoints on navigating the challenges and opportunities within this crucial role.
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