Campus Conversations

Episode 07 - Beauty, relationships and family life

In our final episode of Campus Conversations, Kat, Amman and Mubaraq explore how modern society is reshaping ideas around beauty, relationships and family life. The students discuss the pressures created by social media, changing beauty standards, “looksmaxxing” culture and the impact of constant comparison online, while also reflecting on identity, confidence and preserving memories in the digital age. They also debate whether traditional family values still fit with modern life, touching on gender roles, financial pressures, cultural expectations and the realities facing young people today.  The episode finishes with an honest “Campus Confession” about the pressure to achieve life milestones after graduation, as the students share thoughtful advice on navigating family expectations and uncertainty about the future.

Episode 06 - Gender identity, equality and representation

In this episode of Campus Conversations, first-year UCL students Brandon, Lucia and Hafsa discuss gender identity, equality and representation in modern society. The conversation explores diversity in the media, the importance of cultural representation and finding community at university, as well as debates around masculinity, toxic online influences and the pressures facing young men today. The students also reflect on identity, immigration, opportunity and the experiences of women and people of colour, sharing personal stories and perspectives throughout an honest and thoughtful discussion.

Episode 05 - Education, learning and student experience

In this episode of Campus Conversations, Mubaraq, Kat and Elif explore the realities of university life, discussing whether higher education is worth the cost, the pressures students face around careers and employability, and how university shapes personal growth and independence. The conversation touches on everything from “Mickey Mouse degrees” and soft skills to making friends, managing finances and adjusting to life in London. Drawing on their own experiences as UCL students, the hosts reflect honestly on the challenges and opportunities of student life, offering thoughtful advice for anyone navigating university and thinking about their future.

Episode 04 - Justice and moral boundaries

In this episode of Campus Conversations, Amman, Mubaraq and Abubakar explore big questions around justice and moral boundaries. They dive into debates on assisted dying, weighing up personal choice, ethics and religion, before unpacking whether the prison system really rehabilitates people or just reinforces cycles of reoffending. The conversation also turns to student experiences of safety in London, with honest reflections on anxiety, media perceptions and practical ways to stay safe. It’s a thought-provoking discussion that encourages students to consider different perspectives and reflect on how society defines right and wrong.

Episode 03 - Relationships, friendship and modern connections

In this episode of Campus Conversations, Amman, Elif and Maja chat about relationships, friendships and modern connections at university. They explore everything from the rise of AI relationships and whether they can ever replace real human connection, to the realities of making friends at uni—sharing honest advice on putting yourself out there, navigating loneliness and building meaningful friendships over time. The conversation also touches on the impact of money and social differences on friendships, with practical and reassuring reflections on staying true to yourself and finding connections that work for you.