I initially decided to study the course because it combined my interest in contemporary literature with current world issues, such as climate change and politics. I was also drawn to the literary festival management module as it was unique and developed new skills.
I utilised the support and advice of my lecturers throughout the course. There is constant guidance available, and it is clear how to access it, whether that’s through essay tutorials or emails.
I used the careers network and library support throughout the course. I was able to get my CV and cover letters checked, receiving useful advice and supportive feedback. The library is also great as a space to study, and it is easy to reach out to the staff to ask questions or gain access to new sources for further research.
I found the seminar skills particularly useful. The seminars groups were small, so the conversations were more personalised, encouraging more in-depth conversations with peers and lecturers. I found the literary festival useful in career development because a lot of the skills are applicable to the jobs I was applying to.
Outside of my course, my highlights have involved my volunteering work at the Students’ Union. I wrote a blog post for the disability support network in my second year of my undergraduate course and progressed from there, taking on various roles within the welfare and diversity section. These roles offered many opportunities, from organising and hosting an open mic poetry night to going skydiving. I continued this role into my master’s year, which allowed me to make new friends and continue utilising the support of the university and union to do what I enjoyed, including running events and creating social media content.
I was fortunate to be offered a job within the equity, diversity, and inclusion at Loughborough Students’ Union. I felt prepared to take on this role as I had experience within the welfare and diversity section, giving me knowledge of the Union as an establishment and experience of how to support student volunteers.
My advice would be to consider the number of opportunities offered by the course alongside studying at Loughborough. The course offers many opportunities, including the skills developed through your writing, becoming a course rep, or creating social media content for the department. Outside of the course, there is something for everyone at the Students’ Union so definitely make the most of it.