Despite living in rapidly evolving times, young adults often feel pressured to choose a definitive career path early on, amidst a sea of endless possibilities. The expectation to specialise can be paralysing for those with diverse interests and lead to a fear of committing to the wrong field. The traditional educational system further compounds this challenge by funnelling students into narrow disciplines, leaving them unprepared for the interdisciplinary nature of real-world problems and the modern workplace.

On your show, Carl will discuss the importance of exploration as a strategy for personal and professional growth. Drawing from his interdisciplinary background and work at LIS, Carl will explain how engaging in different disciplines can help provide clarity and open unexpected opportunities. Carl will also share strategies for maximising learning, highlighting the importance of adaptability, and equipping students to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

In an era defined by global challenges like climate change, technological ethics, and social inequality, traditional universities are struggling to adapt. Operating within disciplinary silos, they fail to provide the interdisciplinary approach required by today’s complexities, leaving graduates unprepared for real-world demands. As a result, students are being prepared for a world that no longer exists, causing a disconnect between their education and the realities of the global landscape.

On your podcast, Carl will address the pressing need to reshape higher education to tackle modern challenges. Drawing from his experience transforming curriculum structures at LIS, Carl will illustrate how integrating subjects like inequality, sustainability, and urban futures can empower students to confront contemporary issues. He’ll emphasise the importance of prioritising methodology in education, highlighting its role in fostering problem-solving skills.

A traditional and linear career path — with its narrow focus and siloed disciplines — is becoming obsolete in the face of the modern world’s complexity. The truth is that, with the rise of hybrid jobs and portfolio careers, the correlation between degree subjects and employment is breaking down. As a result, students and employers alike are quickly recognizing the value of interdisciplinary leaders who can pivot between different domains and engage with information in critical and innovative ways.

On your podcast, Carl will explore this evolving landscape and the growing demand for interdisciplinary talent. By providing examples and success stories of students who have thrived in sectors where adaptability and critical thinking are paramount, such as environmental resilience and digital innovation, Carl will discuss how understanding a range of methodologies to critically evaluate information and generate new knowledge can help your listeners position themselves for success in an ever-evolving job market.

The recent surge in UK university dropouts, with more than 40,000 undergraduates leaving courses in 2023, highlights a growing disconnect between higher education and student expectations. Financial strains, outdated curricula, and a lack of real-world relevance are pushing students away. Moreover, 46% of Gen Z cite finding a job with societal impact as a key priority, yet many feel traditional degrees fall short in this regard.

On your podcast, Carl will explore how interdisciplinary education can bridge this gap, while sharing insights from a national survey showing that 23% of Gen Z don’t find existing university courses suitable for their career aspirations. Drawing from his experience at LIS, Carl will illustrate how integrating diverse subjects and real-world problem-solving into the curriculum can better prepare students for impactful careers, thereby reducing dropout rates and aligning education with the need for stronger social impact.