So, if you’re thinking of returning to higher education, then here are just five essential tips to help you see success as a mature student.

1. Choose the right course for you

When you decide to return to higher education, one of the most important choices that you’ll make is your course.

You should start by asking yourself why you’ve chosen to return to higher education. If it’s to further your career then research which course will best help you achieve your goals. However, if it’s to pursue a lifelong passion, take the time to establish which course best aligns with this interest.

Platforms such as UCAS have a wide range of resources on different courses, universities, and levels of education to help you find the right path for you.

2. Leverage your life experience

One of the biggest advantages of being a mature student is that you’re more likely to have useful life experience than students who are fresh out of school. This experience can help give you an edge when it comes to critical thinking and problem solving, as you’ve had the opportunity to use and hone these skills in the real world.

And, if you’re returning to education following a professional career within the field that you’re studying, you’ll have practical knowledge of your subject that you can apply to your learning and assignments.

3. Consider distance learning

For some of us, returning to traditional campus education as a mature student won’t align with our current lifestyle or responsibility.

Luckily, with the rise of distance learning, mature students need no longer choose their personal and professional commitments or their academic pursuits.

With online learning providers, such as Signum Magnum College, you can embark on your higher education journey from the comfort of your own home and around your existing schedule.

4. Master time management

Time management is one of the most important skills that you can master in your life, and it’s particularly essential when you have to balance your academic commitments with your personal responsibilities.

Take the time to put together a detailed schedule that outlines all of your academic deadlines, along with your personal and professional requirements.

If you struggle to manage your tasks, then consider utilising apps such as RescueTime to keep track of your time and manage your schedule more efficiently.

5. Establish a support network

Returning to higher education can require significant changes to your life, and therefore, having the support of your friends, family, and colleagues can make all the difference.

When you have a support network, both inside your university and in your personal life, you’ll stand a better chance of embarking on the path to success.
 
Have you returned to higher education as a mature student? Share your experiences in the comments below!


Disclaimer: this is a collaborative post.

Collaborative Post | Home videos capture the heart-warming, candid moments that define family life. They aren’t just recordings but like time capsules that preserve the laughter, celebrations, and everyday joys. 

A birthday party, a DIY family film, a holiday — the list of cherished moments is never-ending. This guide will show you how to make a movie at home, even if you're a beginner, with free and easy tips to ensure the best results.

​Creating a home family video goes beyond simple recording. This is what you love, and there are good reasons to make one. Watching these videos years later evokes nostalgia and strengthens family bonds.

To relive memories - home videos have the power to transport us back in time. Not literally, but still. Being able to see and hear loved ones who have passed away makes us feel like they are still with us in some way. It's a beautiful feeling that only such videos can provide.

To connect with family - everyone is constantly busy with work, school, etc. And it's quite easy to lose touch with our family members. Home family videos serve as a way to reconnect and bring the family together, even if it's just for a half an hour watching a trip slideshow or a birthday party footage.

To document milestones - life is full of milestones, big and small. Home videos allow us to document these moments and look back on them with joy and pride. From a child's first steps to a graduation, capturing these milestones on video ensures that they will never be forgotten.

To get creative - video creation is also an opportunity to express yourself. You can experiment with different filming techniques, music choices, and editing styles to create a unique movie that reflects your or your family's personality.

How to make a movie at home? You don’t actually need expensive equipment or advanced skills. You can start with items you already have at hand:

1. A camera or smartphone

• Modern smartphones offer excellent video quality, making them perfect for beginners.
• If you have a digital camera or camcorder, it can add a professional touch.

2. A tripod or stabiliser

• Keep your footage steady with a tripod. You can even use a stack of books for an easy DIY stabiliser.
• For dynamic shots, try holding your smartphone with both hands to minimise shake.

3. Video editing software

• Try out free tools like iMovie (for Mac) and user-friendly editors like the one by Movavi to get a feel for the editing process.
• Add cool transitions and fancy music, animate text, apply stickers, etc.

A little planning goes a long way in making your family video engaging and fun to watch. Here's how to get started:

Decide on a theme or storyline - do you want your video to be a casual collection of moments or a mini-movie with a storyline? Examples include:

• A day in the life
• A themed family video, such as "Our Family Adventures"
• Special occasions like birthdays or holidays

Create a shot list - outline the moments you want to capture. Like:

• Morning routines
• Playtime in the garden
• Evening storytelling or family dinners

Prep your family - let everyone know your plans so they feel comfortable on camera. For staged videos, assign fun roles like director, cameraman, or actor to make it a collaborative effort.

Use natural light - the best lighting for home family videos is free: sunlight. Film near windows during the day to avoid harsh shadows. For evening shoots, use multiple lamps to create even lighting.

Focus on candid moments - candid clips often capture the best emotions and expressions. Don’t force poses; instead, film your family during everyday activities like baking cookies or playing games.

Keep clips short and engaging - long, unedited clips can become dull. Aim for short clips of 10–20 seconds each and piece them together during editing.

Use close-ups and different angles -get close to capture smiles, laughter, or the details of activities. Experiment with angles - low shots for dramatic effect or overhead views for dynamic scenes.

Once your masterpiece is ready, go on and share it:

Social media:​ Upload your video on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, or any other platform you’re on.

Cloud storage: Use free platforms like Google Drive or Dropbox to safely store your videos.

External HDD or SSD: For a more traditional approach, save them on USB drives.

​Overcomplicating the process: Keep it simple. You don’t need advanced tools to create a meaningful video.

Ignoring sound quality: Pay attention to background noise. If your video includes dialogue, film in a quiet environment.
​
Not backing up files: Always keep your original footage in a separate location to avoid accidental loss.

Learning how to create home videos is a joyful, creative endeavour that anyone can master. With a video editor and a bit of planning, a simple home family video can become an amazing movie. Start capturing special moments - you’ll thank yourself years down the line when you look back on the memories you’ve preserved in a single family video.


Disclaimer: this is a collaborative post.

Collaborative Post | Winter is coming and with it, the need for staying warm without sacrificing style. Nothing says cosy chic like a fabulous winter coat that not only offers protection from the chilling winds but also adds an extra wow factor to your winter outfits. 

However, before you rush off to the nearest retail store or start your online shopping spree, it's essential to understand what kind of coats are worth splurging on to ensure both style and functionality. Let's explore the world of winter coats that will have your closet brimming with trendy layers this winter season.

Coats play a significant role when the cold breeze starts knocking at the door. To make a wise investment, it is crucial to go for pieces that match your style, fulfill warmth requirements, and provide enough versatility. Picture yourself in a long, sleek woolen coat jacket, a snug puffer, or an elegant faux fur number; these can bring a whole new dimension to any winter coats for women. It's all about striking the right balance between aesthetics and practicality.

The Classic Wool Coat
No winter wardrobe is complete without the reliable, time-tested woolen coat. It provides unmatched warmth and gives any outfit an instant touch of sophistication. Traditional colors like black, grey, and camel are top choices, but don't be afraid to go for bolder shades like red or emerald green for a standout look. Opt for a long wool coat for a formal or business setting and a short-length one or a wool pea coat for everyday casual styling.

The Practical Puffer Coat
The puffer coat, often overlooked as bulky and not so fashionable, deserves a spot in your closet too. It offers ultimate protection against harsh winters, and the good news is that designers are now offering sleeker, more streamlined designs that don't compromise on warmth or style. Metallic puffer jackets or ones with a belt can add some definition and character to your attire.

The Elegant Faux Fur Coat
Cruelty-free and chic, faux fur coats have become increasingly popular in recent years. They keep you warm, and their plush look instantly boosts the glam factor of any winter outfit. Choose from a range of colors and lengths to suit your style and needs. A soft, faux fur jacket pairs beautifully with evening attire or even with jeans and combat boots for a daytime look.

The Trendy Teddy Coat
There's no denying the appeal of a teddy coat. Its name derives from its fluffy, furry material that's similar to that of teddy bears. These coats are extremely comfortable and warm, making them perfect for laid-back outfits. Whether you choose a short teddy jacket or an oversized one, it will offer both cozy vibes and stylish appeal.

The Versatile Trench Coat
Trench coats are an iconic outerwear staple that has transcended time and trends. This versatile piece can be used not only during winter but also for transitional seasons like fall and spring. A classic neutral shade like beige or black is a safe choice that pairs well with a wide range of clothing, but a vibrant color  can also add a pop to your winter wardrobe.

The freezing temperatures shouldn't compromise your fashion sense. With the right winter coats, you can maintain your stylish look while staying warm and comfortable. Invest in these winter coat must-haves and make a fashion statement this winter season. Remember, the perfect coat is not only about style and warmth but also about reflecting your personality and individuality. So, get shopping, ladies! Add these fabulous coats to your collection and conquer the winter in style.


Disclaimer: this is a collaborative post.