Bob Smale is a freelance writer, trainer and mentor with long standing interests in personal development and employee relations. Bob started his working life in banking and was concurrently a part-time professional musician. After becoming a mature student he completed a Labour Studies Diploma at Ruskin College, Oxford and a first degree at University of Kent. He has completed an M.Phil with University of Kent and D.Phil with the University of Portsmouth and is also a qualified holistic therapist. During 31 years in education he taught in further, adult and higher education, developing an interest in pedagogy and receiving an award for 'Excellence in Facilitating and Empowering Learning' From the University of Brighton. Bob is the lead author of two editions of 'How to Succeed at University: an Essential Guide to Academic Skills, Personal Development and Employability', published by Sage, which brought together his knowledge of personal development and academia.

Part 1: How to develop your personal skills
Chapter 1: How to prepare yourself for higher education
Chapter 2: How to plan your personal development
Chapter 3: How to improve your people skills
Chapter 4: How to look after yourself and upgrade your self-nurturing skills during the developmental process
Part 2: How to develop your academic skills
Chapter 5: How do you learn and how do you know what is required of you?
Chapter 6: How to plan, conduct and review your research
Chapter 7: How to write up and present your work in order to get better results
Chapter 8: How to develop successful examination techniques
Part 3: How to develop your employability skills
Chapter 9: How to understand what is required for your success in gaining internships, placements and jobs.
Chapter 10: How to understand the application process in order to get shortlisted
Chapter 11: How to give yourself the best chance of success in the selection process
Chapter 12: How to continue developing yourself for your future success

Achieve all your goals for university - whatever they are!

How to Succeed at University provides straightforward, practical advice for anyone experiencing university life.  Introducing the personal, academic and life skills you need to succeed - both at university and in today's competitive job market - you'll find help with managing your time and budget, and guidance on a range of study skills including skills for research and examination success.  You'll also learn how to identify and develop key transferable skills that will stay with you throughout your professional life.

Discover how to:

• Improve your employability prospects and give yourself the advantage in the job market
• Benefit from other students' experience, with top tips and insider advice on succeeding in your studies
• Explore the uses of digital technologies in learning and assessment
• Use what you learn right away, with handy downloadable checklists and worksheets.

Pragmatic, up-front and sympathetic, this is an essential companion for all undergraduate students, as well as anyone preparing for study at university.

The Student Success series are essential guides for students of all levels. From how to think critically and write great essays to planning your dream career, the Student Success series helps you study smarter and get the best from your time at university. Visit the SAGE Study Skills hub for tips and resources for study success!