I volunteered for the Hidden Histories project, where we went into care homes to talk to residents about their experiences of living in Sheffield.

Although I was excited for university, I didn't realise how much I would love the course and how many new friends I would make.

Grace Chapman

BA History and Politics

Why did you choose to study at Sheffield?

I attended an online open day which really drew my attention to Sheffield. I really liked the variety of modules available and when I attended an in-person open day I felt like I really got a feel for the city.

Has your experience so far been what you expected?

My experience has surpassed my expectations. Although I was excited for university, I didn't realise how much I would love the course and how many new friends I would make.

What do you particularly enjoy about your degree programme?

I have loved the diversity of my modules. I have been able to study new periods and places that I never had a chance to study before. For example, in the Paths from Antiquity to Modernity module I was able to study some ancient history, which was new to me. I also like being around other people who are just as interested in the subject as I am.

What modules are you studying this year? Are there any modules that you have particularly enjoyed during your degree so far and why?

I really enjoyed the Paths from Antiquity to Modernity module as this gave a really good overview of Europe from ancient to modern times. I liked the fact that the module tried to move away from Eurocentric interpretations of history. This theme continued into the Making of the Twentieth Century module, which I also really loved. Although I had studied modern history at A-Level, this module focused on global history, meaning that I was able to learn about places that I had never studied before. This module gave me a much better understanding of colonialism and decolonisation, and we explored the ways in which this is still relevant today.

If you’ve undertaken any extra-curricular activities, what do you feel these have added to your time here?

As a member of the History Society I volunteered for the Hidden Histories project, where we went into care homes to talk to residents about their experiences of living in Sheffield. I enjoyed finding out about local history outside of the classroom as we learnt about people's individual experiences. It was also interesting to make use of oral histories as opposed to the readings we often use in seminars.

If you're a dual student, what do you enjoy about doing a dual degree?

I love how interconnected my two subjects are. Many of the readings for History are useful for my Politics modules and vice versa. I think that doing a duel degree adds a different perspective as I am able to apply knowledge from both subjects to what I am learning. For example, ideas surrounding decolonisation have been very relevant to both my subjects this year.

What do you like about the University/living in Sheffield?

Sheffield is a really green city and there are lots of parks to visit in your free time. I like that I can walk everywhere - nothing is too far away but I also get plenty of exercise! There are lots of things to do, whether that is in the city or at the university, including lots of societies to join.

Would you recommend studying at Sheffield to a friend?

Definitely! I really love my course and I think the variety of History modules is great. I also love living in Sheffield and have met many new friends from both classes and my accommodation.