As Chair of the History in the City scheme, I have developed a many organisational and team leading skills

As Chair of the History in the City scheme, I have developed a number of organisational and team leading skills, coordinating the committee to recruit ambassadors and successfully run sessions throughout Sheffield. During my work placement year, I also developed a huge range of employable skills and real world knowledge, as well as working out what my career goals are.

Joshua Bates

BA History and Politics

Why did you choose to study at Sheffield?

Sheffield offered me the most flexibility and opportunity compared to any other university, allowing me to design a course that most suited my interests and strengths. One of the open day taster lectures interested me so much, that in both my second and final year of study I took that academic's modules, as I found their area of study so intriguing.

Has your experience so far been what you expected?

Not at all. I could never have imagined the opportunities that have presented themselves during my time here. Every week something new pops up, whether that be a guest lecturer, work opportunities, volunteering projects or SU events.

What do you particularly enjoy about your degree?

My year of employment experience was one of the most challenging and exciting experiences of my life. Working in the heart of the EU, I helped advise and guide multinational companies on how to interact with the European Parliament, using the writing and communication skills I'd learnt during my previous two years in Sheffield.

What are you studying this year? Are there any modules that you've particularly enjoyed?

In History, I am studying a special subject called Ending the Cold War, as well as a comparative topic on revolutions. Both are incredibly interesting and allow me to lean on my previous studies to supplement my essays and arguments.

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

As Chair of the History in the City scheme, I have developed a number of organisational and team leading skills, coordinating the committee to recruit ambassadors and successfully run sessions throughout Sheffield.

My two years as a committee member on the History Society also taught me about how to run large scale events and programs, helping other history students meet people and access further opportunities.

During my work placement year, I also developed a huge range of employable skills and real world knowledge, as well as working out what my career goals are.

What do you like about being a dual student?

The flexibility that the program allows. In choosing from twice as many modules, I can choose only that which really interests and intrigues me. I can also then combine my knowledge between the subjects, such as in second year where I simultaneously studied the History of Terrorism and Contemporary Security challenges.

How would you sum up your overall experience of studying at Sheffield?

My time at Sheffield is often unpredictable, busy but always interesting. You decide what you make of your time here.

What skills have you learnt that you'll be able to take away from your degree?

The key skill I have learnt is the ability to communicate, whether that be through structured and respectful discussion or through well argued and supported essays. I've learnt how to craft my communication for a purpose and an audience.

Do you have any plans for after graduation?

I am currently applying to work within public and political affairs consultancies, like the one I worked in during my year abroad.

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

The city itself is large enough that there's always something going on, but small enough to feel familiar. Sheffield feels very much like a growing city, with new shops, restaurants and experiences popping up all the time. At the same time it's also very affordable for students and never feels inaccessible.

Would you recommend studying at Sheffield to a friend?

Definitely, I have yet to meet an alumni who doesn't recommend the university or wish they could go back.