Whatever your favourite aspect of history is, our university most likely offers something similar.
I knew I wanted to study history but I was intrigued by the idea that I could also study a Sociology module, or a Religion and Ethics one; I even did an Urban Studies module in my first year!
Isabelle Clayton
BA History
Why did you choose to study at Sheffield?
I enjoyed the fact that Sheffield allows you to choose modules from different departments. I knew I wanted to study history but I was intrigued by the idea that I could also study a Sociology module, or a Religion and Ethics one; I even did an Urban Studies module in my first year! Overall though, I preferred Sheffield’s wide range of module choice within the History department. There are modules focusing on global history as well as European, modern through to ancient periods, gender through to economic history. Whatever your favourite aspect of history is, our university most likely offers something similar.
What modules are you studying this year? Are there any modules that you have particularly enjoyed during your degree so far and why?
In the first semester of second year, I studied HST2100 - Gender, Race, and Class in Nazi Germany, 1933-1945. The seminars were structured with overarching themes that could be identified throughout the module. It was eye-opening learning one aspect of Nazi Germany, then being able to see how it affected all aspects of life. The module really provoked deep thought into questions that are difficult to answer. For example, presenting the question of ‘who were victims and who were perpetrators?’ in Nazi Germany. There may not always be simple ‘yes or no’ answers, and this made for engaging and interesting discussions in class.
This year I have also studied HST21013 – The Fall of the Western Roman Empire. Before this, I had no experience or knowledge of the Roman Empire. However, it has been an enjoyable and interesting module to engage with: considering a variety of factors that contributed to the fall of the Western Empire, and what permitted the Eastern Empire to continue. I have loved that there is rarely a straight-forward answer to a historical question – of course there’s not just one reason why Rome fell!
What skills have you learnt that you’ll be able to take away from your degree?
I think the most useful skill I’ve learnt is how to enhance my critical thinking and research skills. With a History degree, the skills you pick up are incredibly transferrable. Most career paths I have researched view critical thinking and research as a valuable skill to have. It allows me to consider aspects of a project that may be more hidden or nuanced. In addition to this, I think I’ve gained a lot from working in groups in an academic setting. It helps you understand that everyone has a different way of working and encourages you to adapt the way that you work to make the experience as easy as possible. Teamwork is something that employers view as crucial, and my degree has certainly presented great opportunities to familiarise myself with these scenarios.
What do you like about the University/living in Sheffield?
I absolutely love the music scene. There are so many cool music venues, bars, night clubs that host engaging events for the student scene. There’s also enough brunch places, cafes, and restaurants that you could eat at a different place every day and still not have tried everything! One part of Sheffield that encouraged me to study here was how green it is. I love that I can walk out of my house/flat every day and it take me less than 5 minutes to find a park. The Peaks are only a 15 minute drive away too so it’s the place to be if you enjoy being outdoors, or just want a break from city life every now and again; the best of both worlds!
Would you recommend studying at Sheffield to a friend?
Yes! And I always do. There are so many great things to explore in Sheffield, and it’s an even better place to study. It’s a timeless place.