Welcome to our new Music Library intern, Theo Letts!
How did you first hear about the internship?
I first heard about this opportunity through one of the weekly department bulletins. As soon as I read about it, I knew I wanted to apply. I'm really interested in the management side of music and this internship was a chance to get hands-on experience in this area!
How did you feel when you heard that you were successful in being awarded the internship?
When I heard about getting the internship I think I was actually in the peak district so it was a lovely day all around. I'd just had a lovely day walking through the stunning views and then hearing the positive news about the internship really topped off my day!
What made you choose to study at Sheffield?
Sheffield originally was just a 5th option to fill up my UCAS application. I hadn't really thought about it until my parents suggested we go on an open day just to double check whether or not I'd actually want to study at Sheffield if I got an offer. Once I stepped foot on campus I knew it was the university I wanted to go to. Compared to the other campuses I'd seen, it just felt like it had the right vibe for a university - friendly, social, and enough space. The open day and the department talks really were the persuaders for me. Now I'm in my 3rd year and I know that I made the right choice.
How did you research the University to find out about studying in Sheffield?
For my course - Music and Philosophy - there are limited options for universities. Once I'd seen that Sheffield offered the course, I started investigating the university website to see exactly what went on at Sheffield. From there I looked at both the department and SU websites to see how I could get involved in orchestras and other music ensembles.
What was your initial impression of Sheffield and the University when you first arrived?
As I said previously, visiting the university was a clincher in deciding to study at Sheffield. The whole campus had such a good feel to it and was bustling with activity on the open day I went to. That atmosphere hasn't changed since being here. Everywhere on campus is bustling with students going to and from lectures, the ic, or john's van, and it's such a positive vibe to have on the campus. Having a dad who grew up in Sheffield, I'd been to the city before but coming back as a prospective student it was even better than I'd remembered. There is so much happening across the city from concerts to sports to shops but the city never seems overwhelming whatsoever. Sheffield is such a good place to be a student, not only because it's so affordable but because it has such a great community.
What are the highlights of your experience in Sheffield so far?
My time in Sheffield has been a varied one - what with the various lockdowns meaning a lack of a real second year. Even with this, I've managed to make some great memories here. From being on society committees to playing a concerto with an orchestra in Firth Hall, the opportunities I've had in Sheffield have been totally unrivalled by anything I could have imagined. My favourite highlight has to be organising the UniBrass 2022 contest hosted in Sheffield where 21 university brass bands from across the UK came together in February to celebrate the return to banding after a long 18 months. The contest was a great success and has played a part in my degree by being my Special Project.
What would you say to a student considering studying at The University of Sheffield?
Simply put - do it, you won't regret it. Studying at Sheffield has been one of, if not the best experience of my life. There is so much to do no matter what your interests are and all the students and lecturers are so lovely - something that is a rarity at other universities. If you're even considering Sheffield, come and have a look around. Meet the people, see the campus - you'll fall in love.