I love the Loughborough community.
There are regular pop-ups, fairs and market stalls to browse – and the sports events are huge. Even if you’re not into sports, the atmosphere is so much fun to be a part of.
The University is big, but the community is close and really friendly. Because the town is on the small side, you’re always bound to run into someone you know when you’re out and about.
I chose my course because of the wide range of modules on offer – giving me the chance to explore subjects I had never studied before. You can really tailor your studies to match your interests.
I enjoyed learning about global politics in the Asia-Pacific region as it was something I had never previously had the opportunity to study.
I also took a module called Small Wars, exploring conflicts throughout the twentieth century, which shed light on parts of global history that I had never considered.
I loved and repeatedly gravitated towards the selection of political philosophy modules the Department offers. The topics are current – spanning discussions about the environment and feminism – and the debates can get really exciting.
For my dissertation, I wanted to write something around race relations. It’s an issue that feels personal to me and my degree really enabled me to explore things I feel strongly about.
I considered the moral complexities and ethical issues surrounding dating preferences based on race. I explored the wider political concepts and structures that frame the issue while taking a philosophical approach.
I’d studied the topic in a philosophy module in my second year and wrote an essay about it at the time. After that piece of work, I felt like I had a lot more to say on the issue and decided to explore it further as my dissertation – I absolutely loved writing it.
The staff here are amazing and so helpful. The transition from college or sixth form can be difficult, but staff are there to help – especially your personal tutors. The lecturers have so much knowledge to give, but equally they want to learn from students – treating seminars as mutual learning opportunities.
The University facilities speak for themselves. The library is a great study space, but there are so many other amazing study spaces on campus. The IRPH department is actually where I wrote most of my dissertation and the office staff are lovely.
The Careers Network was great – giving helpful advice about my CV, the application process and internship opportunities.
Looking forward, I plan on pursuing a career in human rights with a charity or NGO. My degree has given a great fundamental understanding of some of the important human rights issues in the world right now.
If I could give any advice to someone thinking of studying here, it would be – don’t be afraid to speak up. Ask questions and give your opinions – have conversations about things you don't understand. You’re not supposed to know everything! That’s why you’re here.
Be inquisitive, talk, learn and never feel silly about speaking up.