Being able to debate and discuss ideas has helped deepen my understanding of subjects.

In first year I loved researching and writing the Paths module essay, as I did mine on a topic I'd never learned about before.

Rebekah Gregg

BA History

Why did you choose to study at Sheffield?

I chose to study at Sheffield as I loved the history course here, especially how the modules are frequently updated and there is such a variety of interesting modules. Also, I just loved the city, it's such a friendly city and there is so much to do both at university and outside of the university.

Has your experience so far been what you expected?

My experience of my course has been what I expected. The tutors are friendly and helpful, especially with essay guidance. In second year I loved having more freedom in the options I chose, and this helped me in choosing my third year special subjects. It has been what I expected in terms of life in Sheffield, you meet so many people and can make friends for life.

What do you particularly enjoy about your degree programme?

The amount of current research from the tutors, and how we have so much choice in modules. This means I can study topics I've never heard of, or am already passionate about. I've loved having seminars (in person), being able to debate and discuss ideas has helped deepen my understanding of subjects. In third year I have loved being able to specialise and research a topic more deeply. Because I did such a variety of time periods in first and second year it equipped me to know what period and topics of history most interested me for specialising in third year. 

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

I am a third year student, in first semester I did a thematic option of the Comparative History of revolutions, which I have enjoyed looking at a broad historic theme and this is a very different way of historical analysis. My special subject is Resistance and Liberation in South Africa, and I will base my dissertation on this, and then I am also doing the core module of Making History Public. My favourite module so far is my special subject. We have 4 hours of seminars a week, this allows us to deeply understand the module, and debates and also get to know one another in the seminar. 

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

Extra-Curricular activities have helped me build a community of friends, making Sheffield feel even more like a home. It is also a good opportunity to find things you might enjoy outside of your comfort zone, for instance last year I started boxing, which even though I am not good at (yet), is really fun and not something I would have otherwise tried. 

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

I love the city, that there is so much to do and so much variety. The city is incredibly friendly, there are so many good coffee shops, or places for a night out, most of which feel relatively safe (or safer than elsewhere). Sheffield has so many lovely parks and outdoor places, as well as being next to the Peaks.

Would you recommend studying at Sheffield to a friend?

100%- Sheffield University is such a great environment to learn and grow in, as well as the opportunity to meet so many people and build a great community of friends. As a city it feels safe and welcoming.