Xiaohongshu
Each year, ExtendED brings together students from across UCL who want to stretch themselves beyond lectures and assessments. For many, it’s a chance to gain hands‑on experience, explore new fields, and meet people they might never encounter in their degree. This year’s student reflections paint a picture of a programme that is challenging, rewarding and empowering — and full of moments that genuinely stay with them.
Why attend ExtendED?
For some, ExtendED arrived at exactly the right moment.
“During my first year, I felt like I hadn’t done much outside my comfort zone,” one student shared. “Looking at the programme, I felt this was a good opportunity.”
Others were looking for something meaningful to fill Term 3:
"Term 3 can feel a little empty — why not fill it up with experience?”
And for many, it was about gaining real-world exposure:
“I wanted something where I could gain hands-on experience alongside my degree, and ExtendED did provide that.”
What were the key skills students learnt through the ExtendED experience?
Across the board, students highlighted the practical skills they developed. From consultancy projects to outreach events, they spoke about:
One student summed it up simply:
“This is something you can’t gain through lectures.”
Another reflected on how the programme changed their academic approach:
"I used to take everything at face value, but now I critically evaluate all the papers I read."
Building community, confidence and connection
Beyond skills, students consistently talked about the people they met and the confidence they built.
“ExtendED is a great way to meet new people. I met two great colleagues through this programme that I’m still in contact with today.”
“I was mainly stuck to my academic career to the point where I neglected my social life. I felt like I developed a lot of confidence.”
“My favourite thing was to work in a team and to meet people from diverse disciplines — it brought so much value.”
The ExtendED experience
Turning conversations into opportunities
Working with industry clients was a standout feature for many participants — not just for the experience itself, but for the doors it opened. One student reflected:
“The dreaded networking ended up being my favourite part. I reached out to the client six months later and got a work experience opportunity.”
Others felt the impact of ExtendED immediately:
“I put it on my CV and it’s absolutely working!”
“This opportunity to immerse ourselves into a new field opened up a huge number of doors for me, which are useful now.”
What students want future participants to know
If there’s one message that comes through loud and clear, it’s this:
Just do it.
Students said:
Don't be intimidated; don't think that you don't have experience or you won't be able to participate...Go ahead and have fun!"
Put yourself out there, because ExtendED offers a great opportunity to gain some really valuable skills and experience - all in a fun and engaging environment!"
"Don't overthink it and just sign up. It's an opportunity to gain skills you never thought you would build!"
Jiviika