Laura Towers

Laura Towers
Laura Towers
Laura Towers
MA Sociology
2014
"I have really enjoyed the variety on offer within the department and the opportunity to study areas of Sociology that I had never before come across. Overall though, I think the best experience has been completing my dissertation."
Laura Towers
Laura Towers

What has been the best or most useful thing about the course you studied in the Department of Sociological Studies?

I have really enjoyed the variety on offer within the department and the opportunity to study areas of Sociology that I had never before come across. Overall though, I think the best experience has been completing my dissertation. As a dual honours student at undergraduate I didn’t write one so it’s been fantastic to really focus on an area that I’m particularly interested in and complete my own research project under the guidance of a leading researcher in the field.

Why did you decide to study at the University of Sheffield?

I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Sheffield and absolutely loved it. The city is a great place to live and the students’ union is fantastic. As for the University, I had such a positive experience first time round that when I decided to return to education for my postgraduate study I never considered anywhere else other than Sheffield.

What is your fondest memory from your time in Sheffield?

It’s not one specific memory but all of the memories I have made over the year. I’ve met a range of amazing new friends from all over the world who I intend to keep in touch with when the course is finished.

What do you plan to do following graduation? Where do you see yourself in the future?

I completed this masters so that I could change direction in my teaching career and that’s exactly what I’ve been able to do. I have successfully made the transition from primary to secondary education and secured a job teaching social sciences full time at a school in Rotherham. The aim is to hopefully become Head of Department or Faculty one day.

Laura Towers
Lucy Jessop

What piece of advice would you offer new students to the Department of Sociological Studies at Sheffield?

Be open minded when choosing your modules. I began this course with my own particular areas of interest and assumed I knew what my dissertation would be about. Whilst I’ve developed my knowledge in these areas, I’ve also found new aspects of Sociology that I’m interested in and ended up doing my dissertation on something completely different than I thought. I’m glad I chose modules that were entirely new to me because it’s broadened my understanding and appreciation for the discipline.

Four students laughing while sat at a bench, outside the Students' Union

International Merit Scholarships

We offer a generous package of financial support for international students including 75 undergraduate scholarships worth £10,000 towards the annual tuition fee and 125 postgraduate taught scholarships worth £5,000 towards the tuition fee. Applications are now open for existing offer holders.