I decided that completing a masters degree would both equip me with new skills and give me the space I needed to find that alternative career path

Why did you choose to study the MSc International Social Change and Policy at The University of Sheffield?
Having chosen to change career paths, I decided that completing a Masters degree would both equip me with new skills and give me the space I needed to find that alternative path. The MSc in International Social Change and Policy appealed to me for numerous reasons. First, I wanted to figure out how to affect social change, to be a positive actor in the world. That the course had an international focus was even better. Team this with the possibility of doing a dissertation with a paid internship, then there really was no other course out there for me.
Which modules did you enjoy the most, and why?
The core module, International Social Change and Problems, has been interesting, particularly the way that we've been able to study such a variety of subjects. That we've been lucky enough to have had seminars delivered by other specialists in the department has also enriched my experience of the course. I've also enjoyed studying a module outside of the department - Theorising the City in the Global South. I love that there was the flexibility to do this and how welcome I felt in the class, despite coming from a different department.
Did you find it easy to settle into student life in Sheffield? Which parts of student life in Sheffield did you enjoy the most?
I already lived in Sheffield, so already felt very comfortable in that sense. I've enjoyed meeting new people, especially those from different international backgrounds, and getting involved in the additional talks and events open to us as students. What has been harder, however, is structuring my time. There's so much freedom and such a lot to do. You really need to stay on top of things!
Where do you see yourself in the future?
I'm not sure yet. Ideally, I would work in some kind of policy role or within a think tank. I want to work to make positive change in society, whether this be through campaigning, policy, or some grass roots organisation, I'm not yet sure.

International postgraduate taught scholarships
We offer a generous package of financial support for international postgraduate taught students, including scholarships worth £10,000 towards the original tuition fee.
Applications are open for existing offer holders for a postgraduate taught programme starting in September 2025.