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• Contact Joanne: [email protected]

In this episode, Joanne shares insights straight from the mouths of her current WSET Level 3 students during their second-to-last class — the sparkling wine session. As champagne was flowing and conversation opened up, she asked her students: “What do you wish you could tell yourself six months ago?”

What followed was an honest and revealing conversation about what students underestimated, what they overlooked, and what they would absolutely do differently if they were starting Level 3 again.

Whether you’re just beginning your Level 3 journey or are deep in the study trenches, this episode is full of practical advice and reflection from students who are almost at the finish line.

The 5 Things Level 3 Students Wish They Knew Sooner

1. The 200-Hour Study Commitment Is Real

   • Students acknowledged they underestimated how much time was truly required and wished they had started preparing earlier.

2. The Study Group Never Happened — and They Regret It

   • Despite Joanne’s encouragement, many didn’t follow through with forming a study group, and felt the lack of peer accountability.

3. They Weren’t Refreshed on Level 2 Knowledge

   • The importance of entering Level 3 with a firm grasp of Level 2 material can’t be overstated. It’s foundational and necessary.

4. Class Participation Requires Preparation

   • Level 3 isn’t a lecture—it’s interactive. Students need to come prepared and speak up, because participation cements understanding.

5. They Didn't Understand the Importance of Linking Concepts Early

   • Many didn’t realize until halfway through that everything ties back to climate, geography, and production methods. Grasping this early makes the course far more manageable.

Joanne reminds us that the WSET Level 3 pass rate hovers around 57%—and that’s simply not good enough. The tools, structure, and mindset to succeed are available, and this podcast (along with the Launchpad course) is designed to help students walk in the door better prepared.

• A review of a brand-new tasting kit Joanne and Nancy tried

• An honest look at aroma kits: are they worth the money?

• More practical tools and strategies for wine students

Have a topic you want Joanne to cover? Send her an email at [email protected] — she’d love to hear from you.