How to Stand Out Without Burning Out

Stop Waiting, Start Creating OpportunitiesDoes it seem like everyone else is getting opportunities that never seem to come your way?An internship.A leadership role.A placement.A funding opportunity.A graduate job.It can be easy to assume those opportunities simply appeared.But what if the difference isn't luck?What if it's the willingness to take initiative?In this final episode of New Semester, New Foundation, we're joined by Gabriel Kelly, Co-Founder of Netax Fightwear, and Adarsh Bhardwaj, Founder & CEO of Regeno.Together, we're exploring why some students seem to get more out of university than others, and how taking action, following your interests and stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to opportunities you never expected.In this episode, you'll discover:Why some students get more out of university than othersHow to stop waiting until you feel "ready"Why confidence often comes after action, not before itThe opportunities students most often overlookHow to deal with self-doubt when trying something newWhy an entrepreneurial mindset matters, even if you never want to start a businessOur one key takeaway?Opportunities rarely arrive fully formed. They're created through curiosity, initiative and action.Because the students who make the most of university aren't necessarily the smartest or most confident. They're often the ones willing to get involved, explore their interests and take the first step.This episode is part of New Semester, New Foundation, a five-part podcast series from Strathclyde Inspire designed to help students build confidence, connections and opportunities throughout their university journey.Previous episodes:You Don't Need a Perfect PlanCuriosity Beats ConfidenceFinding Your People: Building the Right University EnvironmentHow to Stand Out Without Burning OutIf you've enjoyed this series, follow Strathclyde Inspire on Instagram for regular insights, opportunities and practical advice on how to find success using an entrepreneurial mindset.We'll be sharing content designed to help you build confidence, develop new skills, create opportunities and make the most of your time at university.And be sure to follow along to be the first to hear when our next podcast series is released.Because the best opportunities often start with a single decision to get involvedStrathclyde Inspire supports and encourages entrepreneurship in all its forms, so whether you want to explore your entrepreneurial potential, have an idea for a business, or are considering commercialising your research, we will support you at every stage of your journey. Strathclyde Inspire supports any University of Strathclyde student, staff or graduate.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strathclydeinspireLinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/company/strathclyde-inspireWebsite: https://www.strath.ac.uk/workwithus/strathclydeinspire/strathclydeinspirehub/

How to Stand Out Without Burning Out Making the most of university isn't about doing everything. It's about doing what matters.University can sometimes feel like a competition. Everyone seems to be joining societies, taking on leadership roles, securing internships and building impressive CVs.But is being busy the same as making progress?In Episode 4 of our New Semester, New Foundation series, we explore how students can build a strong reputation, create meaningful opportunities and make the most of their university experience without sacrificing their wellbeing. Drawing on the entrepreneurial skills of communication, forward-thinking and resilience, this episode challenges the idea that success comes from simply doing more.Joining us are Fraser Brown, President of Strathclyde Students' Union, and Bruce Walker, entrepreneur, innovation leader and co-founder of Round One. Together, they share their experiences of leadership, relationship-building, opportunity creation and navigating competing priorities while staying true to themselves.In this episode, you'll discover:Why authenticity is one of the most valuable professional skills you can developHow communication and relationship-building create opportunities over timeWhy standing out is about focus, not being the loudest person in the roomThe importance of saying what you want out loud and letting others help you achieve itHow to build a personal brand without pretending to be someone you're notWhy comparison is often one of the fastest routes to burnoutHow to know when you're taking on too much and what to do about itPractical advice for balancing ambition, wellbeing and university lifeKey takeawayYou don't stand out by doing everything. You stand out by choosing what matters.The students who create meaningful opportunities aren't necessarily the busiest. They're the most intentional. They focus on the activities, relationships and experiences that align with who they are and who they want to become.Featured GuestsFraser Brown – President of Strathclyde Students' Union, with experience spanning student representation, leadership, theatre and community building across the University.Bruce Walker – Entrepreneur, innovation leader and co-founder of Round One, whose career has focused on helping ambitious people create opportunities and build meaningful connections.About New Semester, New FoundationA five-part podcast series from Strathclyde Inspire designed to help students build confidence, connections and opportunities throughout their university journey.Previous episodes:You Don't Need a Perfect PlanMaking Friends & Networking (Without It Feeling Awkward)Building the Right University EnvironmentNext EpisodeStop Waiting. Start Creating OpportunitiesDiscover why the people who create opportunities often aren't the most qualified or experienced. They're simply the ones willing to take the first step.Strathclyde Inspire supports and encourages entrepreneurship in all its forms, so whether you want to explore your entrepreneurial potential, have an idea for a business, or are considering commercialising your research, we will support you at every stage of your journey. Strathclyde Inspire supports any University of Strathclyde student, staff or graduate.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strathclydeinspireLinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/company/strathclyde-inspireWebsite: https://www.strath.ac.uk/workwithus/strathclydeinspire/strathclydeinspirehub/

Building the Right University EnvironmentWho you surround yourself with can have a bigger impact on your university experience than you realise.When students think about success at university, they often focus on effort: studying harder, getting better grades, or becoming more organised.But what about environment?The people you spend time with influence your confidence, ambitions, opportunities and even what you believe is possible.In Episode 3 of our New Semester, New Foundation series, we explore why finding your people isn't about popularity. It's about intentionally building an environment that helps you grow.Joining us are Galina Sudiiarova, whose journey took her from taking part in the Exploring Entrepreneurship Challenge as a Strathclyde student, to becoming a Strathclyde Inspire Ambassador and then securing a role with university spin-out Entropyst, and Jessalyn Gerbholz, entrepreneur, investor, advisor and MBA student who has spent years building businesses and supporting entrepreneurial communities.Together, they discuss the communities, relationships and environments that shaped their own journeys and share advice for students looking to find where they belong.In this episode, you'll discover:Why environment matters more than most students realiseHow the right people can influence your confidence and ambitionsThe difference between finding friends and finding your peopleWhat great communities give you beyond your degreeSigns that an environment is helping you grow (or holding you back)How to build your university experience intentionally from day onePractical advice for students who feel disconnected or haven't found their community yetKey takeawayYour environment shapes your outcomes.The people around you influence your thinking, your opportunities and the direction your life takes. One of the smartest things you can do at university is choose that environment intentionally.Featured GuestsGalina Sudiiarova – Former Inspire Ambassador whose involvement in entrepreneurial activities led to internships, career opportunities and a full-time role with Entropyst.Jessalyn Gerbholz – Entrepreneur, investor, advisor and MBA student with extensive experience working across startup, leadership and innovation communities.About New Semester, New FoundationA five-part podcast series from Strathclyde Inspire designed to help students build confidence, connections and opportunities throughout their university journey.Previous episodes:You Don't Need a Perfect PlanMaking Friends & Networking (Without It Feeling Awkward)Next EpisodeHow to Stand Out Without Burning OutWhy making the most of university isn't about doing everything. It's about focusing on the things that create the greatest impact. Strathclyde Inspire supports and encourages entrepreneurship in all its forms, so whether you want to explore your entrepreneurial potential, have an idea for a business, or are considering commercialising your research, we will support you at every stage of your journey. Strathclyde Inspire supports any University of Strathclyde student, staff or graduate.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strathclydeinspireLinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/company/strathclyde-inspireWebsite: https://www.strath.ac.uk/workwithus/strathclydeinspire/strathclydeinspirehub/

Making friends at university can feel awkward. Networking can feel even worse.Walking into a room full of strangers. Joining a society on your own. Starting conversations. Introducing yourself. Sending the first message.For many students, these moments can feel far more intimidating than any assignment or exam.In Episode 2 of our New Semester, New Foundation series, we're tackling one of the biggest challenges students face at the start of university:How do you build meaningful relationships when you're not naturally confident?Joining us are Mercy Abel, founder of Who You Know, community builder and early careers specialist, and Garance Locatelli, co-founder of MARKED and part of the Strathclyde Inspire Accelerator. Together, they share honest stories about social anxiety, adapting to new environments, building networks from scratch and learning how to connect with people authentically.In this episode, you'll learn:Why confidence isn't a prerequisite for connectionHow to start conversations without feeling awkward or forcedThe simple questions that help build genuine relationshipsWhat networking actually means (and why most people get it wrong)How resilience helps you overcome social anxiety and self-doubtSmall acts of courage that can completely change your university experienceThe biggest takeaway?Relationships are built through curiosity, not confidence.Whether you're new to university, new to Glasgow, or simply nervous about putting yourself out there, this episode will give you practical strategies to help you build friendships, confidence and connections one conversation at a time.About the SeriesNew Semester, New Foundation is a special five-part Inspiring Entrepreneurs mini-series designed to help students make the most of the year ahead.Across the series we'll explore:You Don't Need a Perfect PlanMaking Friends & Networking (Without It Feeling Awkward)Finding Your People: Building the Right Uni EnvironmentHow to Stand Out Without Burning OutStop Waiting, Start Creating OpportunitiesEach episode explores entrepreneurial mindset skills that help students build confidence, create opportunities and shape a future they're excited about.Next episode: Finding Your People: Building the Right Uni EnvironmentBecause making friends is one thing.Finding the people who help you grow is something else entirely.Strathclyde Inspire supports and encourages entrepreneurship in all its forms, so whether you want to explore your entrepreneurial potential, have an idea for a business, or are considering commercialising your research, we will support you at every stage of your journey. Strathclyde Inspire supports any University of Strathclyde student, staff or graduate.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strathclydeinspireLinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/company/strathclyde-inspireWebsite: https://www.strath.ac.uk/workwithus/strathclydeinspire/strathclydeinspirehub/

Do you ever feel like everyone else has a plan except you?Maybe you've arrived at university convinced that everyone around you already knows where they're heading, what career they want, and exactly how they're going to get there.Meanwhile, you're still figuring things out.If that sounds familiar, this episode is for you.In the first episode of our new five-part series, New Semester, New Foundation, we challenge one of the biggest myths students believe: that successful people have everything figured out from the start.Joining us are Matthew Adams, entrepreneur, founder and Strathclyde graduate, and Abdul Eneser, accessibility advocate, entrepreneur and student leader. Together, they share honest stories about uncertainty, setbacks, resilience and the unexpected paths that shaped their journeys.In this episode, we explore:Why you don't need a 5-year plan to succeedWhat to focus on instead of having everything figured outHow to navigate uncertainty without feeling stuckThe role resilience plays when things don't go to planPractical advice for making the most of the year aheadWhether you're starting university for the first time, returning for another year, or simply feeling unsure about what's next, this conversation will remind you that you're not behind and you don't need all the answers right now.Because confidence comes from action, not certainty.About the SeriesNew Semester, New Foundation is a special five-part Inspiring Entrepreneurs mini-series designed to help students make the most of the year ahead.Across the series we'll explore:Making Friends & Networking (Without It Feeling Awkward)Finding Your People: Building the Right Uni EnvironmentHow to Stand Out Without Burning OutStop Waiting, Start Creating OpportunitiesEach episode focuses on entrepreneurial mindset skills that help students build confidence, create opportunities and shape a future they're excited about.Follow Strathclyde Inspire for more entrepreneurial mindset insights, opportunities and student stories.Strathclyde Inspire supports and encourages entrepreneurship in all its forms, so whether you want to explore your entrepreneurial potential, have an idea for a business, or are considering commercialising your research, we will support you at every stage of your journey. Strathclyde Inspire supports any University of Strathclyde student, staff or graduate.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strathclydeinspireLinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/company/strathclyde-inspireWebsite: https://www.strath.ac.uk/workwithus/strathclydeinspire/strathclydeinspirehub/

This episode of Inspiring Entrepreneurs is sponsored by CIMA, the world's leading and largest professional body of Management Accountants. To access job opportunities, career advice, and employability events, or for more information about their globally recognised qualification, sign up to the CIMA newsletter now: https://myfuture.cimaglobal.com/me If you’re a student or early-career professional thinking:“AI is moving faster than I can keep up.”“How do I compete with automation, algorithms and people who seem miles ahead?”This episode is for you. With this episode of Inspiring Entrepreneurs, we’re challenging any fears you may have about staying relevant across your full career journey. Because the great news is the AI doesn’t replace people who create value. It replaces tasks, not thinking. Processes, not judgement. And repetition, not imagination. The people who stay relevant aren’t the ones who know the most tools. They’re the entrepreneurial thinkers who adapt early, and focus relentlessly on value creation.By the end of this episode, you will understand:• what AI is actually changing in the job market, and what it isn’t• how forward-thinking helps you stay employable• and how to position yourself as someone who creates value alongside technology, not in competition with it. One idea you hear today might completely change how confident you feel about your future career. And if you’re a Strathclyde student who wants to put what you learn in this episode into practice, there’s great support available for you via the Strathclyde Careers Service. You can access a world of advice, including: in-person support to discuss the skills you need and explore your options: https://www.strath.ac.uk/professionalservices/careers/appointments/Information about the skills employers want: https://www.strath.ac.uk/professionalservices/careers/students/workexperience/different ways to upskill for free in IT, digital and finance: https://www.strath.ac.uk/professionalservices/careers/students/workexperience/buildyourskillsexperience/Strathclyde Inspire supports and encourages entrepreneurship in all its forms, so whether you want to explore your entrepreneurial potential, have an idea for a business, or are considering commercialising your research, we will support you at every stage of your journey. Strathclyde Inspire supports any University of Strathclyde student, staff or graduate.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strathclydeinspireLinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/company/strathclyde-inspireWebsite: https://www.strath.ac.uk/workwithus/strathclydeinspire/strathclydeinspirehub/

This episode of Inspiring Entrepreneurs is sponsored by CIMA, the world's leading and largest professional body of Management Accountants. To access job opportunities, career advice, and employability events, or for more information about their globally recognised qualification, sign up to the CIMA newsletter now: https://myfuture.cimaglobal.com/me If you’re ambitious, motivated, ready to work, but feel like everyone else has better internships, better connections, better grades, or a better story… This episode is for you. Because today we’re dismantling limiting beliefs that can hold you back as a student or in the early stages of your career: That you need permission before you can start building credibility. That experience only comes from job titles. And that opportunity only opens after someone gives you a chance. Here’s the truth: The experience gap isn’t real — if you know how to play it. By the end of this episode, you will understand: • how to start building evidence of skills before someone hires you• how communication and collaboration make you employable faster than grades alone• and how to position yourself as valuable even when your CV feels “empty.” And if you’re a Strathclyde student who wants to put what you learn in this episode into practice, there’s great support available for you via the Strathclyde Careers Service. You can: access a world of advice on gaining work experience before graduation: https://www.strath.ac.uk/professionalservices/careers/students/workexperience/explore how to develop skills that employers value alongside your studies: https://www.strath.ac.uk/professionalservices/careers/students/workexperience/buildyourskillsexperience/discover how mentoring programmes can help you to build your network: https://www.strath.ac.uk/professionalservices/careers/students/workexperience/mentoring/Strathclyde Inspire supports and encourages entrepreneurship in all its forms, so whether you want to explore your entrepreneurial potential, have an idea for a business, or are considering commercialising your research, we will support you at every stage of your journey. Strathclyde Inspire supports any University of Strathclyde student, staff or graduate.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strathclydeinspireLinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/company/strathclyde-inspireWebsite: https://www.strath.ac.uk/workwithus/strathclydeinspire/strathclydeinspirehub/

What does it really mean to build a career with purpose, and can you do it without sacrificing financial stability?In this episode of Inspiring Entrepreneurs, we're unpacking how to find work that aligns with your values while still paying the bills. Because pursuing a meaningful career is not about choosing passion over practicality, but about aligning what matters to you with where you can create value, and who you build with along the way.By the end of this conversation, you'll have heard:· how to connect your personal values to tangible opportunities· why job titles matter less than the impact you create, and· how thinking differently about work can open up more fulfilling and sustainable career paths.And we'll have challenged the idea that purpose is something you “find”. Instead, it’s something you actively build through contribution and action.Joining us are three guests who have each shaped careers around impact in very different ways.Genna Masterton, founder of Kinoro, shares her journey from primary school teaching into entrepreneurship, creating technology that empowers learners to own their data.Sarah Deas, former Chief Executive of Cooperative Development Scotland and co-founder of Wellbeing Economy Alliance Scotland, brings insight into building businesses that deliver both economic and social value.And Scott Kennedy, co-founder of Revive Eco, discusses turning environmental challenges into high-impact business opportunities.Whether you're just starting out or rethinking your direction, this episode offers a fresh perspective on how to build a career that works for both your values and your reality.Resources to help youIf you’re a student at Strathclyde, the University Careers Service offers a great range of resources that can help you to find the career path that’s right for you.You canbook an appointment to discuss you career path with a careers consultant: https://www.strath.ac.uk/professionalservices/careers/appointments/reflect on who you are and what you want out of work using this assessment tool: https://strathclyde.careercentre.me/resources/careerassessments/explore your career options using the Intelligent Careers Quiz: https://strathclyde.careercentre.me/intelligentcareerquizMeet employers in person or online at one of our events: https://careerhub.strath.ac.uk/students/eventsAnd follow Strathclyde Inspire on YouTube, LinkedIn and Instagram to stay informed about ways to develop your entrepreneurial mindset and skills.Strathclyde Inspire supports and encourages entrepreneurship in all its forms, so whether you want to explore your entrepreneurial potential, have an idea for a business, or are considering commercialising your research, we will support you at every stage of your journey. Strathclyde Inspire supports any University of Strathclyde student, staff or graduate.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strathclydeinspireLinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/company/strathclyde-inspireWebsite: https://www.strath.ac.uk/workwithus/strathclydeinspire/strathclydeinspirehub/

Your first job after graduating can feel like it sets the course for your entire future, but what if it doesn’t have to? In this episode of Inspiring Entrepreneurs, we unpack the pressure surrounding that first career step and why your first role is not a verdict on your future. From navigating unexpected career paths to figuring out whether a job is truly right for you, we explore how early career decisions can be opportunities for growth rather than defining moments. We discuss how to choose your first job strategically, how to recognise when it’s time to pivot, and why side hustles, experimentation, and risk-taking can play an important role in shaping your career. If your first role after graduating doesn’t look like what you imagined, you’re not alone, and it might actually be a valuable stepping stone. We’re joined by Wes Beard, Managing Director and Co-founder of Konversable, and Camrie Hole, Careers Consultant at the University of Strathclyde. Together they share practical advice, personal insights, and the lessons they wish they had known earlier in their own careers. Whether you're a student, recent graduate, or considering a career change, this episode will help you rethink how much weight you place on that first job, and how to approach your career with more confidence and flexibility. If you’re a Strathclyde student or graduate, a great place to start is the university's Careers Service website, where you can find an interactive online course, Choosing My Career. This can help you make it a conscious and thoughtful decision, giving you the best chance of choosing a career path that suits your personality, skills and strengths. https://www.strath.ac.uk/professionalservices/careers/students/choosingacareer/ You can also explore your career options and see where your degree could take you using the Prospects website. https://www.prospects.ac.uk/careers-advice/what-can-i-do-with-my-degreeStrathclyde Inspire supports and encourages entrepreneurship in all its forms, so whether you want to explore your entrepreneurial potential, have an idea for a business, or are considering commercialising your research, we will support you at every stage of your journey. Strathclyde Inspire supports any University of Strathclyde student, staff or graduate.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strathclydeinspireLinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/company/strathclyde-inspireWebsite: https://www.strath.ac.uk/workwithus/strathclydeinspire/strathclydeinspirehub/

How to use LinkedIn to go from passive, forgettable, or invisible to credible, visible, and in-demand.If you have a LinkedIn profile…but haven’t posted anything in months or just can’t figure out how spending time on there is going to help you now or in the longer term, this episode is for you.If LinkedIn feels awkward, fake, intimidating, or like a place you don’t belong yet, you are not alone.But here’s the shift we’re making with this episode:· LinkedIn is not about self-promotion.· It’s about communication and value creation.It’s about learning how to express what you’re learning, what you care about, and what problems you can help solve.We're joined by Mercy Abel, multi award-winning marketer, speaker, early careers and intergenerational team specialist, and Nick Murray, start-up ecosystem builder, Director of the Tectonic Night Summit, and consultant for techstars.Together, they break down practical ways to strengthen your profile, increase visibility, showcase your skills, and build meaningful connections that open doors. This isn’t about pretending to be impressive or crafting a highlight reel. It’s about learning to communicate clearly, share what you’re learning, and use LinkedIn as an entrepreneurial tool to build confidence and create opportunities.Whether you’re still studying, recently graduated, or figuring out your next step, this episode will help you utilise LinkedIn to progress your career.And if you’re a Strathclyde student who wants to put what you learn in this episode into practice, there’s great support available for you via the Strathclyde Careers Service.You can:· make a 15-minute appointment to speak to a Careers Consultant in which they can give advice on your LinkedIn profile: https://www.strath.ac.uk/professionalservices/careers/appointments/· explore the Getting started in LinkedIn course: https://strathclyde.careercentre.me/u/flvyzen3 · and read this article about improving your LinkedIn profile: Improve your LinkedIn Profile - jobs.ac.ukStrathclyde Inspire supports and encourages entrepreneurship in all its forms, so whether you want to explore your entrepreneurial potential, have an idea for a business, or are considering commercialising your research, we will support you at every stage of your journey. Strathclyde Inspire supports any University of Strathclyde student, staff or graduate.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strathclydeinspireLinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/company/strathclyde-inspireWebsite: https://www.strath.ac.uk/workwithus/strathclydeinspire/strathclydeinspirehub/