Our story
Beyond the Lecture Halls
We started this blog because nobody told us what university was actually like. Now we do.
Why we exist
University brochures show smiling students on sun-drenched campuses. They don't show the 2am panic before a deadline, the loneliness of a new city, or the confusion of managing money for the first time.
Beyond the Lecture Halls exists to fill that gap. We write honestly about the stuff that actually matters — how to study smarter, how to stretch a budget, how to make friends when you're starting from scratch, and how to build a career while you're still figuring out who you are.
Every post is written by a student, for students. No corporate fluff. No sponsored advice dressed up as genuine tips. Just real experiences from people who are living it right now.
Honest
We write what's true, not what sounds good. If something didn't work for us, we'll say so.
Student-first
Every writer on this blog is a current or recent student. We know what you're going through because we're going through it too.
Evidence-backed
Where we give advice, we back it up — with research, data, or lived experience. No guesswork.
Inclusive
University looks different for everyone. We try to reflect that in every story we tell.
The writers
A small team of students and recent graduates who care about making uni life better.
Emma Clarke
Founder & Editor
University of Manchester, 3rd Year English
Emma started Beyond the Lecture Halls after her own chaotic first year. She writes about campus life, mental health, and the social side of university.
Priya Sharma
Science of Learning Writer
University of Edinburgh, 2nd Year Psychology
Priya is obsessed with how the brain works and how students can use that knowledge to study smarter. She also makes excellent coffee.
James Okafor
Finance & Money Writer
LSE, 2nd Year Economics
James grew up watching his family budget carefully and brings that same rigour to student finance. He believes money stress is solvable with the right information.
Tom Whitfield
Career & Internships Writer
University of Bristol, Final Year Business
Tom has applied for — and been rejected from — more internships than he can count. He writes about what he's learned along the way.
Want to write for us?
We're always looking for new student voices. If you have a story to tell or advice to share, we'd love to hear from you.
Get in touch