My experience of studying in Sheffield has been nothing short of life changing.

I have grown exponentially both in an academic sense due to the world renowned teaching and excellent departmental support, but also as a person, through getting to know people from all around the world

Rebecca Carpenter

BA History and Philosophy

Why did you choose to study at Sheffield?

I was set on studying in Sheffield after I attended the open day in my second year of sixth form. When my dad and I arrived at the train station, we got the tram to the university and I was struck by the friendliness of the people, who immediately started to make conversation. They predominantly spoke about what a safe, exciting city Sheffield is - especially for students! As well as the friendly people, the freedom of the course (History and Philosophy) was a huge contributing factor behind my selection. There was lots of module choices which allowed me to explore the aspects that I found most interesting from both disciplines.

Has your experience so far been what you expected?

My experience has reached far beyond my initial expectations. You often hear people say that your university years are the best of your life, but it's hard to really understand what they mean until you experience it! My course gives me the opportunity to learn about topics that truly interest me from engaging lecturers who are the experts in their fields. As well as this, Sheffield is such an affordable city which has allowed me to go out and experience more things without being as financially restricted as I would be in other cities.

What do you particularly enjoy about your degree programme?

The main thing I enjoy about the history aspect of my degree is the range of time periods you can study. In my first year, I learnt about ancient history - a period that I had not had the opportunity to learn about at GCSE or A-level. It was interesting, but I established that the aspects of history I was most interested in was more recent history because it can inform us on current affairs. This is why I chose to take Trumpism and the Northern Ireland Troubles in my second year. Doing the seminar reading for these modules did not feel like work because it was so engaging and thought-provoking. It was intellectually stimulating to see what events in the past led us to our recent political landscape. I do not believe that any other degree could have educated me so thoroughly on the past as well as the present.

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

This year, the history modules I am studying are Emotions and Identity in Britain and the Short Dissertation. I think it is excellent that as a dual student, I have been given the opportunity to do a more manageable form of a dissertation, allowing me the chance to put the skills I have learned throughout my degree so far to practice. A module that I particularly enjoyed was Trumpism as it gave a unique insight into the role that history plays in current events. The module led me to realise that present occurrences rarely lack a precedent, and if you look at history, it can usually explain controversial and shocking events.

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

This year, I am the publicity officer for the philosophy society and it has taught me so much in terms of social media marketing, event organising, and generally how to communicate efficiently with people. Furthermore, the social aspect of the society has really encouraged me to climb out of my comfort zone and put myself out there in order to meet new people - I have found this incredibly rewarding.

I am also Inclusions officer for the Law4NonLaw society which without doubt has added much value to my time in Sheffield. It has taught me so much about how to ensure inclusivity when planning events and has helped me to be mindful of all people in every situation.

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

The main thing I enjoy about doing a dual degree is the freedom that it has given me to explore aspects of two disciplines that I am incredibly interested in. I have always had a passion for both history and philosophy, and the fact that I have been able to learn about both of them at such a high level in an extremely well-respected institution is something that I am incredibly proud to do. Furthermore, as a dual student I get to approach my modules with a unique lens; it is fascinating to witness the overlap between the subjects I study and magnify points in seminars that a single honours student may not have been able to pick up on.

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

My experience of studying in Sheffield has been nothing short of life changing. I have grown exponentially both in an academic sense due to the world renowned teaching and excellent departmental support, but also as a person, through getting to know people from all around the world. The university and the city has facilitated my growth into a young adult, and has undoubtedly prepared me for the next chapter of my life after graduation.

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

Key skills that I will be able to take away from my degree are analytical skills as well as communication skills. Throughout the years I have had to closely analyse texts in order to get to the root of their meaning - this has helped my depth of understanding and awareness of small details. Furthermore, the presentations that I have done have enhanced my communication skills and encouraged me to be confident and clear when speaking to groups of people.

Do you have any plans for after graduation?

After graduation I am looking to get into a job in advertising and marketing, specifically social media marketing. My history degree has undoubtedly equipped me well for this. I have learnt how to communicate my ideas exceptionally and look at alternative ways to approach situations. These skills are pivotal in the media marketing world, and will hopefully translate well.

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

One thing I love about Sheffield is the cosy, homely feel that it has to it. It is big enough to have anything that you will ever need, and there is so much to do that it is impossible to get bored, but at the same time it is not at all overwhelming. Sheffield is the perfect balance between city life and country life, and the friendliness of the locals coupled with the optimism of the many students gives the city an unmatchable vibe.

Would you recommend studying at Sheffield to a friend?

Yes!