About Us
Semester was created from lived experience — not theory. It was founded by two students who, in different ways, experienced what happens when higher education focuses heavily on academic outcomes but leaves students without the tools to manage themselves, their goals, and their wellbeing.
One came close to dropping out. The other graduated feeling successful on paper, but deeply unprepared for life beyond university.
Through their own journeys, they discovered that when students are given the right structure, guidance, and space for reflection, everything changes — confidence grows, clarity improves, and progress becomes intentional rather than accidental.
Semester exists to bring those tools forward earlier.So students don’t have to fail, burn out, or feel lost before they learn how to thrive.
Our mission is simple: to make growth and wellbeing a daily habit, and help students reach their full potential — academically, personally, and professionally.
Joe Hilton
Joe’s challenge came after graduation.
Despite completing his degree, he left university feeling unfulfilled, unsupported, and unsure how to manage his thoughts, emotions, or sense of purpose. Like many graduates, he had academic knowledge — but little guidance on how to navigate real life.
This led to a prolonged period of poor mental health and disengagement. It wasn’t until Joe discovered personal growth, reflection, and emotional self-management that he began to rebuild direction and confidence.
Through this journey, Joe developed deep expertise in personal development and wellbeing, later becoming a published author and a recognized voice in the space.
His experience shaped a core belief at Semester: students shouldn’t be sent into adulthood without the skills to understand themselves, manage their wellbeing, and make intentional decisions about their future. A leading voice in personal growth and advocate of men’s mental health.
Nathan Marr
While studying at university, Nathan struggled academically and came close to dropping out. His early experience of higher education was defined by low grades, overwhelm, and a lack of direction.
Everything changed when he was introduced to structured planning and personal growth. By learning how to set goals, reflect, manage his time, and take ownership of his development, Nathan completely turned his academic trajectory around — graduating two years later at the top of his class.
That transformation reshaped how he viewed education. It wasn’t intelligence or ability that had been missing — it was structure, self-awareness, and practical tools for managing life as a student.
Nathan went on to build Semester around helping students develop these same skills, working across wellbeing, performance, and personal development. Semester was born from his belief that students shouldn’t have to “figure it out the hard way” to succeed or drop out from being overwhelmed by things that given the right tools they can easily handle and thrive on their academic journey.
Making growth and wellbeing a daily habit through planners designed to target your students specific challenges.
Our vision
A future where every student has the tools to thrive — not just survive — in higher education and beyond.
We envision a higher education system where wellbeing, personal growth, and academic success are embedded into everyday student life, empowering students to reach their full potential and graduate confident, capable, and prepared for what comes next.
Our mission
Making growth and wellbeing a daily habit — in partnership with higher education.
We collaborate with colleges and universities to deliver practical, evidence-informed tools and experiences that support student wellbeing, engagement, and persistence.Through bespoke planners, coaching, and keynote experiences, we help institutions move from reactive support models to proactive, preventative approaches — strengthening student success, improving retention, and supporting healthier academic communities at scale.
Our values
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A personal coach in your pocket
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