In the podcast, we discuss life in Kosovo during the war, when schools were closed and children learned in secret. She talks about the moments when she and her family almost didn’t make it, and why Kosovan people are so patriotic.

She also reflects on her parents’ emphasis on education—especially for the girls in the family—and why she chose to wear the hijab. 

We explore her move to Jordan and how different life there is compared to what we often hear in the news. She describes a warm and welcoming nation where community is strong and women have more freedom than many assume.

Esra has a deep hunger for learning and has spent years studying Arabic so she can fully understand her religion. She also speaks about the importance of people of all faiths reading and understanding their own scriptures.

Esra’s dream is to open a school where girls can truly thrive. Her energy and passion is something you feel deeply as she speaks.

Student Life Unplugged is hosted by Leong Hiew, a former University Lecturer with a passion for education. Student Life Unplugged is part of Leong's mission to promote the joy of learning among young people through his organisation 'Lifespan Education'. He is working towards building a positive world, to nurture communities of engaged learners for the sake of his own children and for young people everywhere.

For more information about Leong and his project go to https://https://lifespan.education/contact/

If you would like to take part in the podcast, go to https://lifespan.education/podcast/

This podcast is produced by Elisa Kennedy

In this week’s podcast, we travel to Nigeria and meet Ava, who has completed a degree in English Language and Literature and is now considering a master’s in International Relations or Journalism.

We hear about Nigeria’s rich culture, how different regions compete over recipes, and what happened when tribal languages and English merged.

Ava talks about the Nigerian school system, where beatings were once common and being the best was the ultimate goal. Despite the pressure, she speaks warmly of her school days, where she was a head prefect, and shares the pros and cons of being a teachers' daughter.

When Ava was young, her birth parents passed away and she was taken in by her aunt. She talks about her two families, her many siblings and cousins, and the important role family plays in Nigerian life.

Ava is passionate and driven, and her desire to create change shines through her ambitions and the path she is carving for herself.

Student Life Unplugged is hosted by Leong Hiew, a former University Lecturer with a passion for education. Student Life Unplugged is part of Leong's mission to promote the joy of learning among young people through his organisation 'Lifespan Education'. He is working towards building a positive world, to nurture communities of engaged learners for the sake of his own children and for young people everywhere.

For more information about Leong and his project go to https://https://lifespan.education/contact/

If you would like to take part in the podcast, go to https://lifespan.education/podcast/

This podcast is produced by Elisa Kennedy

In this week’s podcast, we speak to Zhou from China, who lays bare the country’s strict school regime. He talks about the long days and stern rules, where bag searches are common and relationships are forbidden. But despite the pressure, Zhou says his school days were a great time to make friends.

According to Zhou, university in China is the best—thanks to the vast facilities and the freedom students enjoy—but he also talks about the challenges some students face when trying to adapt to this new, freer life.

Zhou’s first degree was in Shipbuilding, a path chosen by his father but not something Zhou was passionate about. After quitting his course, he moved to Japan and now studies International Relations, hoping to become an ambassador. We discuss the differences between the two cultures and why some Japanese people may find him too loud or blunt.

We also explore the experience of being a Chinese student during COVID-19, when global attention was sharply focused on them.

Student Life Unplugged is hosted by Leong Hiew, a former University Lecturer with a passion for education. Student Life Unplugged is part of Leong's mission to promote the joy of learning among young people through his organisation 'Lifespan Education'. He is working towards building a positive world, to nurture communities of engaged learners for the sake of his own children and for young people everywhere.

For more information about Leong and his project go to https://https://lifespan.education/contact/

If you would like to take part in the podcast, go to https://lifespan.education/podcast/

This podcast is produced by Elisa Kennedy

In this week’s episode, we have an open and heartfelt conversation with Anton from Java about his personal journey with mental health.

Anton was diagnosed with bipolar disorder while still in school, following the tragic loss of his two year old brother Hooda, to cancer. He shares the deep bond he had with Hooda and how that loss shaped his life. Anton describes the challenges of navigating both depressive and manic episodes where studying or simply living a “normal” life feels impossible.

Despite these hurdles, Anton's determination stands out. His results remain high and in 2022 he secured a place on a double degree program in Taiwan. Here he talks about the difference in culture, facilities and approach.  

Anton has big dreams.  He is currently working on his third book alongside developing a youth empowerment program, but ultimately he would like to open a hospital specializing in stem cell treatment, in memory of his brother.

Join us for an inspiring episode of resilience, hope and determination. 

Student Life Unplugged is hosted by Leong Hiew, a former University Lecturer with a passion for education. Student Life Unplugged is part of Leong's mission to promote the joy of learning among young people through his organisation 'Lifespan Education'. He is working towards building a positive world, to nurture communities of engaged learners for the sake of his own children and for young people everywhere.

For more information about Leong and his project go to https://https://lifespan.education/contact/

If you would like to take part in the podcast, go to https://lifespan.education/podcast/

This podcast is produced by Elisa Kennedy

In this week’s podcast, we explore the jewel of the Indian Ocean and hear Anjalee’s story. She speaks passionately about student life in Sri Lanka and how inspiring her university years were, but also reflects on the country’s early education system, where continuous exams and tuition often consume childhood.

We talk about the food she misses—especially Sri Lankan “junk food”—and the deep importance of her family, who supported every step of her journey.

Now in Ireland, she shares how warmly people welcomed her, even as she arrived in the midst of one of the worst storms on record.

Anjalee’s passion for life is palpable, and her determination to become whatever she wants to be is truly inspiring.

Student Life Unplugged is hosted by Leong Hiew, a former University Lecturer with a passion for education. Student Life Unplugged is part of Leong's mission to promote the joy of learning among young people through his organisation 'Lifespan Education'. He is working towards building a positive world, to nurture communities of engaged learners for the sake of his own children and for young people everywhere.

For more information about Leong and his project go to https://https://lifespan.education/contact/

If you would like to take part in the podcast, go to https://lifespan.education/podcast/

This podcast is produced by Elisa Kennedy

In this episode, we travel to Brazil to meet Leticia, a passionate language learner, English teacher, and online university student currently completing a BA in Administration, English, and Portuguese. Leticia brings to life a colourful portrait of Brazil, sharing stories of traditional festivals, delicious regional foods, and the warmth of growing up in a close-knit, multigenerational household where grandparents pass down secret recipes and family ties run deep.

But she also reflects on how modern life is shifting these traditions, and how growing pressure on young people to leave home earlier is reshaping family culture.

We explore what it’s like living in a small mining town where after-school life revolves around a park, a lake, and not much else—and where options for further education are limited. Despite these challenges, Leticia has charted her own path through an online university: not her first choice, but a necessary bridge to her future.

Alongside her studies, Leticia teaches English—a language she first learned by obsessively listening to music as a teenager. She also shares how Chinese novels sparked her fascination with Chinese culture and set her on a new linguistic journey.

Leticia’s unstoppable love for learning embodies everything this podcast celebrates. Her resilience, curiosity, and drive make this an episode you won’t want to miss.

Student Life Unplugged is hosted by Leong Hiew, a former University Lecturer with a passion for education. Student Life Unplugged is part of Leong's mission to promote the joy of learning among young people through his organisation 'Lifespan Education'. He is working towards building a positive world, to nurture communities of engaged learners for the sake of his own children and for young people everywhere.

For more information about Leong and his project go to https://https://lifespan.education/contact/

If you would like to take part in the podcast, go to https://lifespan.education/podcast/

This podcast is produced by Elisa Kennedy

We also talk about Russia's traditions, the food and it’s people, why family is very important and how the focus for most young people in Russia is study and sports. 

They both miss the snow and talk about the layers of clothing they would need in Russian winters and how it would take 30 mins to undress when they got home from school.

Ivan and Polina paint a very vivid picture of a country of people who rarely leave, who abide by the rules and study hard. Of people who are first very closed but once they know you are open armed. 

Student Life Unplugged is hosted by Leong Hiew, a former University Lecturer with a passion for education. Student Life Unplugged is part of Leong's mission to promote the joy of learning among young people through his organisation 'Lifespan Education'. He is working towards building a positive world, to nurture communities of engaged learners for the sake of his own children and for young people everywhere.

For more information about Leong and his project go to https://https://lifespan.education/contact/

If you would like to take part in the podcast, go to https://lifespan.education/podcast/

This podcast is produced by Elisa Kennedy

In this episode we go to India and speak to Nila from Calcutta and Abhishek from New Delhi. Both talk about their country’s rich culture but also how different the place is, from language to food, religion to politics and study culture. 

Nila is studying English Literature, and she would like to focus on Queer Studies, giving a voice to the minorities, be it race, sex or cast. Abhishek is currently doing a PHD in cancer research in Ireland looking at how patients can be cured by using their own stem cells. 

They talk about growing up in India, the societal pressure to study hard and how extracurricular activities are often frowned upon after the age of eight. Both joke about the fact that Nila doesn’t cook as she still lives at home, while Abhishek, studying away in Ireland, had to learn very fast. They talk about breaking the stereotypes as essential for India to grow. 

Nila and Abhishek describe India and their line of study with such energy and passion. Their strength in pushing for change is so hopeful and exciting.  

Student Life Unplugged is hosted by Leong Hiew, a former University Lecturer with a passion for education. Student Life Unplugged is part of Leong's mission to promote the joy of learning among young people through his organisation 'Lifespan Education'. He is working towards building a positive world, to nurture communities of engaged learners for the sake of his own children and for young people everywhere.

For more information about Leong and his project go to https://https://lifespan.education/contact/

If you would like to take part in the podcast, go to https://lifespan.education/podcast/

This podcast is produced by Elisa Kennedy

In this week’s podcast we speak to Yuvander, from Indonesia but while studying in the UK was rushed to hospital with a major brain injury. We talk about the support he got from his university and how friends can step in to help in the interim. We also speak to Mei-Si, who is from Singapore and study locally. She has no desire to work abroad and is happy in her own community.

Both are training in the health sector, Yuvander in Oncology and Mei Si in Occupational Therapy. Both talk about being an introvert, yet the fields the chose to go into require a lot of human contact. We discuss the reasons why they chose this path and how they will adapt.

As always, we delve into the culture and of both countries. We find out why Singapore is famous for its food and why Indonesia is so bustling with people. We talk about the differences and similarities between their two countries, how Singapore is becoming more health conscious and why communities are not as close as they once were.

We talk about the difficulty of learning on the job while still expected to know everything. Mei Si is concerned about leaving University and working in a field where confidence is key for patients to trust you. Yuvander is still deciding if he will go down the clinician route or work in research. He has more of a relaxed approach to learning on the job and believes it’s just the path all students must take.  

Student Life Unplugged is hosted by Leong Hiew, a former University Lecturer with a passion for education. Student Life Unplugged is part of Leong's mission to promote the joy of learning among young people through his organisation 'Lifespan Education'. He is working towards building a positive world, to nurture communities of engaged learners for the sake of his own children and for young people everywhere.

For more information about Leong and his project go to https://https://lifespan.education/contact/

If you would like to take part in the podcast, go to https://lifespan.education/podcast/

This podcast is produced by Elisa Kennedy

Mexico is one of the most dangerous places to be a journalist and a lawyer, with over 150 journalists killed since 1994.  In today’s podcast we speak to students Frida and Renee, who both wanted to work in these fields. 

Frida is in her final year studying law and Renee is halfway through a degree in Political Science and International Relations. Renee hoped to be a journalist when she was younger but was advised by her parents to rethink this. Frida will qualify as a lawyer but is reluctant to continue it as a career.

Both students talk about the political unrest there is in Mexico, and what they must consider as they join the workforce. But they also describe Mexico vividly as full of colour, traditions, amazing food and the best nightlife. 

Renee’s dream is to become an Ambassador for Mexico and Frida, who opened a bakery in the pandemic, wants to make people happy with cake!

You don’t want to miss this glimpse of Mexican student life. 

Student Life Unplugged is hosted by Leong Hiew, a former University Lecturer with a passion for education. Student Life Unplugged is part of Leong's mission to promote the joy of learning among young people through his organisation 'Lifespan Education'. He is working towards building a positive world, to nurture communities of engaged learners for the sake of his own children and for young people everywhere.

For more information about Leong and his project go to https://https://lifespan.education/contact/

If you would like to take part in the podcast, go to https://lifespan.education/podcast/

This podcast is produced by Elisa Kennedy

In this episode we hear from two friends, Lara and Enya. Lara is training to be a teacher, and Enya is studying geography but is still unsure of what she wants out of it. They both live in the northeastern part of the country near the border with Hungary, Lara studies locally but Enya’s University is in Bern, the capital city.

In the conversation we explore what Switzerland is famous for, the ski slopes, the chocolate, but we also delve into the culture, food, family, and the various languages that are spoken, French, German, Italian, Romansh! We talk about the different ways students socialise depending on if you study in a town or a city and find out why you should never put mustard on a Swiss sausage! 

Lara and Enya both work to support themselves through university, and we talk about how having a part-time job can also be fun and enriching. 

Student Life Unplugged is hosted by Leong Hiew, a former University Lecturer with a passion for education. Student Life Unplugged is part of Leong's mission to promote the joy of learning among young people through his organisation 'Lifespan Education'. He is working towards building a positive world, to nurture communities of engaged learners for the sake of his own children and for young people everywhere.

For more information about Leong and his project go to https://https://lifespan.education/contact/

If you would like to take part in the podcast, go to https://lifespan.education/podcast/

This podcast is produced by Elisa Kennedy

Student Life Unplugged is hosted by Leong Hiew, a former University Lecturer with a passion for education. Student Life Unplugged is part of Leong's mission to promote the joy of learning among young people through his organisation 'Lifespan Education'. He is working towards building a positive world, to nurture communities of engaged learners for the sake of his own children and for young people everywhere.

For more information about Leong and his project go to https://https://lifespan.education/contact/

If you would like to take part in the podcast, go to https://lifespan.education/podcast/

This podcast is produced by Elisa Kennedy

In this episode, we go to the UK and speak to Harrison and Ivy, who are both studying A-levels. A-levels are the final two years of study after formal education. They allow a certain freedom where students pick specific subjects and independent study is encouraged.

Harrison wants to study business and is certain university is for him. Ivy will follow the music path but is so far unsure of her route. Although very different, they both express the same passion and determination for their chosen careers and show commitment and dedication.

They talk about the pros and cons of studying alone or in a group setting, how difficult it can be to get used to self-discipline during A-levels, and the influence of friends and family on their study choices.

Given her dream job, Ivy would like to tour playing music, and Harrison would like to build buildings around the world.

They discuss the pros and cons of going to university, why it can be good for some people but not necessarily the only path.

Student Life Unplugged is hosted by Leong Hiew, a former University Lecturer with a passion for education. Student Life Unplugged is part of Leong's mission to promote the joy of learning among young people through his organisation 'Lifespan Education'. He is working towards building a positive world, to nurture communities of engaged learners for the sake of his own children and for young people everywhere.

For more information about Leong and his project go to https://https://lifespan.education/contact/

If you would like to take part in the podcast, go to https://lifespan.education/podcast/

This podcast is produced by Elisa Kennedy

In this episode Leong speaks to Bel, Tiffany, Ryan, and May Ann, who are all members of his extended family.  Bel and Tiff are sisters living in Perth, Australia, May Ann is in Singapore and Ryan is living in Malaysia and applying to study in the US.

In this episode they talk about the pros and cons of taking a gap year, why it worked for some of them but why others are totally against it. They discuss the importance of internships and May Ann talks about the pressure she feels to have several under her belt and why Singapore values them so highly. Tiffany remembers the feeling when she got her first pay check and Ryan, the youngest, is determined to study in Business AI, an area he thinks will make him the most money! 

Family expectations and the pressure they put on themselves is a running theme in this series, we hear how Bel’s architecture parents almost discouraged her to pursue the same path, and Ryan talks of a very silent car journey on the way home from school after bad exam results.

Finally, we take a look at the US system and how they structure university applications. Ryan is busy writing several essays making him examine and reflect on his values and beliefs. 

This episode is full of fun and laughter and great advice, you don’t want to miss it! 

Student Life Unplugged is hosted by Leong Hiew, a former University Lecturer with a passion for education. Student Life Unplugged is part of Leong's mission to promote the joy of learning among young people through his organisation 'Lifespan Education'. He is working towards building a positive world, to nurture communities of engaged learners for the sake of his own children and for young people everywhere.

For more information about Leong and his project go to https://https://lifespan.education/contact/

If you would like to take part in the podcast, go to https://lifespan.education/podcast/

This podcast is produced by Elisa Kennedy

 Diana and Kristine are from Georgia (the country) but decided to go abroad to study and are living in Hungary and Italy. Diana is studying media and communications in  Budapest but wants to use her knowledge and experience of other countries to change the education system back home. Kristine is a journalist and is doing a master’s in international relations in Bologna. Her dream is to develop her skills and work with the BBC or other big media organisations. 

 In this episode we hear about home and study life in Georgia and how it compares to where they are now living. They talk about the pros and cons of Georgia’s ‘fact based’ education system, the food, community and culture, how beautiful the country is and why Georgians will never send you away from their home hungry.

 They explain how they ended up choosing these two countries, both decisions were very spontaneous but neither of them regrets it. Diana talks about the opportunities she got in Budapest that may not have emerged elsewhere and Kristine talks about the joy in finding out what makes the Italians tick. 

 The main difference they have found studying abroad, is the slower pace of life and the value of finding a study/life balance. They also agree meeting friends has been easier when they are not confided to certain circles at home. 

 Loneliness while living abroad is also discussed, both craving their family and country but also realising how much they have  already achieved just by moving somewhere different. 

 Their advice to anyone thinking of studying abroad is to prepare yourself with studying  the language but also not to let that stop you from going there. They also highlight the importance of focusing on the present moment and not to feel guilty about having fun. Sounds like great advice! 

Student Life Unplugged is hosted by Leong Hiew, a former University Lecturer with a passion for education. Student Life Unplugged is part of Leong's mission to promote the joy of learning among young people through his organisation 'Lifespan Education'. He is working towards building a positive world, to nurture communities of engaged learners for the sake of his own children and for young people everywhere.

For more information about Leong and his project go to https://https://lifespan.education/contact/

If you would like to take part in the podcast, go to https://lifespan.education/podcast/

This podcast is produced by Elisa Kennedy

Nica and Jerica are both from the Philippines but are studying in Japan. Nica moved  there with her family when she was still in school,  Jerica chose to go there as part of her university's foreign exchange programme. Japan for both of them was a childhood dream. 

In this episode, they talk about the difference in culture compared to The Philippines and the difficulty  they both experience making friends because of the language.

Nica has now adapted to life in Japan and speaks Japanese while Jerica is slowly finding her way. We hear about the loneliness you can experience if you can’t make a connection but also advice on how to navigate this. 

They talk about looking after their mental and physical health health and why you should never be afraid to try things and make mistakes. 

Student Life Unplugged is hosted by Leong Hiew, a former University Lecturer with a passion for education. Student Life Unplugged is part of Leong's mission to promote the joy of learning among young people through his organisation 'Lifespan Education'. He is working towards building a positive world, to nurture communities of engaged learners for the sake of his own children and for young people everywhere.

For more information about Leong and his project go to https://https://lifespan.education/contact/

If you would like to take part in the podcast, go to https://lifespan.education/podcast/

This podcast is produced by Elisa Kennedy

In this episode we hear from Hans, Al and Chern Han, who are cousins from Leong’s extended family and living across the world. In this episode they talk about student life in Malaysia, United Kingdom, Singapore, Germany and the US.

Al, who is from Malaysia but studied in Cardiff talks about how different he found studying in a more western society, Chern Han moved from Singapore to Malaysia and then to Germany and now back in Singapore. He discusses the move but also why he was so surprised by the Germans he met. Hans is the youngest, he’s in Malaysia but hoping to study in the US. He seems to have his head sorted, but is concerned about this next step, moving away and making new friends. 

In the conversation about friends Al and Chern Han offer tips about how to always keep a ‘bit of home’ around you when studying away and why not everyone will click with you but that’s ok, you’ll find your tribe. 

They also talk about mental health during exam time and moving home, how they all deal with stress differently and why friends and family are most important at this time. 

Student Life Unplugged is hosted by Leong Hiew, a former University Lecturer with a passion for education. Student Life Unplugged is part of Leong's mission to promote the joy of learning among young people through his organisation 'Lifespan Education'. He is working towards building a positive world, to nurture communities of engaged learners for the sake of his own children and for young people everywhere.

For more information about Leong and his project go to https://https://lifespan.education/contact/

If you would like to take part in the podcast, go to https://lifespan.education/podcast/

This podcast is produced by Elisa Kennedy

These are some of the questions many students in their final years of school ask. The move from school to university can be very daunting, full of excitement but also worry. In this episode we look at this transition and speak to Ella and Leila who are making this move. 

Ella has finished her final exams in Ireland and is waiting on her results, Leila is going into her last year studying A levels in Spain. Both brought up in London, they talk about how they have adjusted to moving away and where they now call home.

 Also, in this episode they talk about the stress of exams and the pressure they put on themselves. Leila will be moving to London where her dad lives but that will mean moving away from her mum, she is both excited and nervous. Ella will stay at home while she studies and is very happy about that as she relies a lot on her family.

They both exchange student experiences and discover a lot of similarities, even studying in a different country. 

Student Life Unplugged is hosted by Leong Hiew, a former University Lecturer with a passion for education. Student Life Unplugged is part of Leong's mission to promote the joy of learning among young people through his organisation 'Lifespan Education'. He is working towards building a positive world, to nurture communities of engaged learners for the sake of his own children and for young people everywhere.

For more information about Leong and his project go to https://https://lifespan.education/contact/

If you would like to take part in the podcast, go to https://lifespan.education/podcast/

This podcast is produced by Elisa Kennedy

 In this series we uncover where the pressure to achieve actually comes from, how important family is during these crucial years and why this next step, as daunting and scary as it can be, can also be exhilarating and life changing. 

 Tune in as we explore the real conversations and candid stories of students — from their academic challenges to personal triumphs and everything in between.

 So if you are in your final year of school, applying to University or taking a gap year abroad Student Life Unplugged will guide you through everything you want to know. 

 Hear from students like Nica and Jerica in Japan, discussing the challenges of adapting to a new language and culture, or Ivy and Harrison in the UK, deliberating on the value of traditional university paths. From the heart of Bologna in Italy to the bustling cities of Malaysia, our episodes cover stories from around the world, bringing you a broad range of cultural and educational insights.

 
About the host

Leong Hiew is a former University Lecturer who is passionate about education. His charity project Learning with Leong was started to promote the joy of learning among adolescents. He is working towards building a positive world, to nurture communities of engaged learners for the sake of his own children and for young people everywhere. 

 “Student Life Unplugged” is more than just a podcast; it’s a community. Follow us to never miss an episode, and let us accompany you on this wild ride called student life. 
And if you enjoy our podcast, please leave us a review and share it with friends—it helps us reach more students like you! 

 
Take part in our podcast

 If you’re passionate about sharing your student life story, we’re always looking for new voices to feature. Contact us to take part. 

Student Life Unplugged is hosted by Leong Hiew, a former University Lecturer with a passion for education. Student Life Unplugged is part of Leong's mission to promote the joy of learning among young people through his organisation 'Lifespan Education'. He is working towards building a positive world, to nurture communities of engaged learners for the sake of his own children and for young people everywhere.

For more information about Leong and his project go to https://https://lifespan.education/contact/

If you would like to take part in the podcast, go to https://lifespan.education/podcast/

This podcast is produced by Elisa Kennedy