13 Questions With Jade Bowler
Jade started her YouTube career in the StudyTube niche after realising how little there was out there for people wanting tips, tricks and support when studying for exams. Since then her channel has grown with her, and this year she even launched her own book 'The Only Study Guide You'll Ever Need'!
First off, how are you and how is your 2021 going?
Honestly? Right at this very moment, I could be better! I found out today that my bike was stolen – not my top highlight of 2021! But other than that, it’s been such a wonderful, chaotic and rewarding year.
What inspired you to start your YouTube channel Unjaded Jade?
I was the last person that any of my friends thought would become a YouTuber! I fell into it out of what felt like necessity.
I loved school, but when I was 16, I found my GCSE exams incredibly stressful. For exams that would apparently “determine my whole life”, I was confused why we were never taught how to revise for them. I started researching the science of learning and teaching myself effective study methods which helped me somehow come out with all A*s.
When I reached sixth form, I knew I needed to share what I’d learned with other students who might be equally stressed, which is why I started my channel. This went on to pioneer an online niche called StudyTube where students shared helpful study techniques and inspired others to look after their mental wellbeing.
Can you tell us about the content you create on your channel?
My channel has evolved over the years as my life has changed, but it has followed my educational journey from school, to my gap year, to now at University. I discuss helpful study techniques, productivity tips, and why I love learning. I also make vlogs about living a life with more gratitude and intention!
We love that so many of your videos concentrate on forming habits for your mental health, what has had the biggest effect on you this year?
Thank you so much. Mental health is often overlooked in the narrative around studying and productivity! Two things have been especially important for me this year: meditation and journaling. My Mum is a yoga teacher so I grew up very resistant to anything in the mindfulness space, but as soon as I tried meditation, it changed my life. I often overthink things, so it helps me to ground myself. I also love journaling to reflect on my life, set goals and remind myself to express gratitude!
Tell us about your book ‘The Only Study Guide You’ll Ever Need’
This is the book I wish I had when I was 16. The first half is focused on how to study based on the science of memory, from revision techniques to building a timetable. The second half is more holistic and sees the student not just as a grade-producing machine, but as someone who also needs to prioritise their own wellbeing. I discuss perfectionism, the academic system, my own mental health during school and what helped me to have the right mindset before an exam.
How did you find the differences between creating video content and writing?
Both feel incredibly personal, but writing allows a depth which you can’t always reach in a video. When people watch a video, you have no idea how much they already know about studying and it can be hard to level it right. With a book, the assumption is that the reader is investing time in the topic, so I could build on frameworks and cross-reference ideas throughout the book to further explain why things work! Another main difference was that I would often write in the middle of the night in my dressing gown.
What are some of your most popular videos our audience should check out?
I love the video on my revision technique ‘Blurting’. It’s changed so many students’ lives! I also recommend watching my ‘Study With Me’s if you’re looking for real-time motivation to get work done and stay off your phone!
What are you currently working on?
I’m currently studying Cognitive Neuroscience with a minor in Business Development (oh, so different! Can you tell I’m indecisive and love learning?) so most of my time is preoccupied with Uni, but I’m also building a mindfulness app in my free time for fun!
Do you have any favourite follows for people to be inspired by online?
So many! Ali Abdaal is amazing for productivity advice, Jack Edwards always inspires me to read more books, and Vee Kativhu is amazing for educational empowerment.
What does your perfect weekend look like?
Waking up early in nature, doing yoga and meditation, making porridge, drinking tea and reading books. I’d then spend the weekend hiking with friends!
What do you always carry with you?
A hairband. My curls can be exhausting.
What would your last ever meal be?
My Mum’s vegan lasagne.
What is one positive piece of advice you could give to our audience?
You are enough. Whether you get the grade or not, get into your dream uni or not, woke up early today or not, you are enough, exactly as you are. The internet tells you a million ways of how to be and how to live. While it’s important to grow and learn, we don’t give the present version of ourselves enough credit!
Follow Jade on YouTube here, and keep up with her on Instagram here!