I have really enjoyed getting to grips with Gender History.

This year I am taking part in the Oral Histories project! I am excited to look at the Covid-19 Pandemic in a historical context.

Saffron Howdle

BA History and Politics

Why did you choose to study at Sheffield?

I was taken back by how relevant Sheffield's History program is! I was keen to work on topics in History that were more modern. When I was looking at other universities I felt that many of them were focusing too much on overworked topics in History.

Sheffield's programme, featuring Gender and Social History was ideal for the sort of research I would like to work on in the future!

Has your experience so far been what you expected?

I have loved my experiences in Sheffield. From the experiences I have had at the university itself to general life in Sheffield, it has been an experience where I have been supported but also grown as an individual, gaining the confidence I needed to excel in my studies. It has surpassed my expectations. 

What do you particularly enjoy about your degree?

I have really enjoyed getting to grips with Gender History, challenging aspects of History that had been considered a norm, when in reality need more complex and detailed research to be conducted.

I have consistently felt that I was at the forefront of studies in History. 

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

My favourite module this year has to be Capitalism and Identity in Nineteenth Century Britain. This module has gone into the different aspects of identities (such as: gender, race, sexuality, class), looking at how these were influenced within the Victorian period, making significant references to Empire, the growth of capitalism and industrialisation.

It has been fascinating to learn about this in more detail, looking specifically at the nuances of the topics and how they interlink with each other. It is also shocking to see how much still applies to society today! 

What do you enjoy about doing a dual degree?

I feel that by doing Politics alongside History, I have had the unique opportunity to learn about History but then see how these historical issues are still impacting and influences current day politics and international relations.

Having a historical understanding of the formations of significant political issues is central to understanding different ways we can over come them. 

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

I was President of Stitch Society, winning awards and organising events. This experience significantly developed my leadership skills as well as helping me integrate myself into university life.

This year I am taking part in the Oral Histories project! I am excited to look at the Covid-19 Pandemic in a historical context. 

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

It has been a fast paced, eye opening experience. I have learnt so much, and had fun while doing so! 

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

I've learnt team work, research, communication in a variety of formats and time management.

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

I feel the city is the right mix between living in a city without losing the comforts of rural life. There are so many green areas that you can take advantage of. But also, there are so many industrial areas that means you can also enjoy city life. 

Would you recommend studying at Sheffield to a friend?

Definitely!