I've met so many diverse and kind people via my work with the History Society

After one open day I was entirely sold, as the staff were incredibly kind and helpful, going out of their way to show me around and answer any questions. History students I spoke to were also very welcoming and stood out instantly from other open days I attended.

Samuel Jones

BA History

Why did you choose to study at Sheffield?

I'm from near Newcastle, and so Sheffield seemed an obvious choice to me, as it was the move to a new place with a very familiar feel that I felt most comfortable with. Like most northern cities, I was particularly impressed by the friendly people, and greenery all around. After one open day I was entirely sold, as the staff were incredibly kind and helpful, going out of their way to show me around the campus and answer any questions. History students I spoke to at the time were also very welcoming and stood out instantly from other open days I attended.

Has your experience so far been what you expected?

Despite going into first year during the pandemic, the university has exceeded my expectations. I was amazed by how well the university managed very difficult circumstances. Needless to say, my experience in in-person, and online lectures and seminars has been very fulfilling and enjoyable. Additionally, I was very excited to try an archaeology, and a music history module in my first year. In spite of the unfortunate circumstances, I managed to make loads of new friends, and to join a number of extra-curricular and social activities. The opportunities available to me this year has been staggering, and I've met a bunch more people already in my second year.

What do you particularly enjoy about your degree programme?

I love the variety and flexibility as a history student. In both my years here, many different departments have offered modules on topics I had not even considered - i.e. the history of minorities in music. Furthermore, the style of teaching varies massively between modules, and keeps the content engaging.

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

This semester I am studying Historians and History, Gender and the Georgians and the Easter Rising - Living, Fighting and Dying in 1916. My favourite is Gender and the Georgians, as our discussions of LGBT peoples of the past is particularly fascinating, as this is not a subject I had learned about before. Gender study had never really been involved in my study of history until now, and I really love it.

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

I am currently part of the History Society committee as a Charity Secretary. So far, the role has been very enjoyable and fulfilling. The committee are all very nice and welcoming, and the local charities we're helping out this year have a great set of volunteers and staff, making my role a lot easier! Already I've met so many diverse and kind people via my work with the History Society. I also play for the History Football team, which has also been a very sociable and fun experience.

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

Sheffield is a particularly sporty and green city. Wherever you live, a beautiful park is only a few minutes' walk away, and being able to go into and explore the Peak District so easily has been so enjoyable. I appreciate that I can cycle outside of the city easily, and that the facilities at Sport Sheffield are very good and affordable.

Would you recommend studying at Sheffield to a friend?

Definitely. I know that people from in and around Newcastle (like me) will greatly appreciate it as a friendly and lively place. For those from other areas, it will appeal as a very comfortable and welcoming place to live and study.