When working as a Student Ambassador, I always told visitors that the University’s close-knit community means that by the time you graduate you could well know somebody wherever you go on campus.
Loughborough truly has something for everyone. The idea that it’s purely about sport is nonsense. You can rub shoulders with elite athletes as well as people who’ve never played a sport competitively in their life.
I chose my course because its strong focus on cultural and international topics suggested a global and modern approach to history. Combining this with how warm and welcoming the University campus feels made my decision a no-brainer.
I feel I’ve really grown as a person, thanks to my time at the University. I loved living in hall. It was my first step into Loughborough life and so convenient for everything. I could walk everywhere I needed to go. Alongside my studies, I worked in the Students’ Union. It was an amazing experience. I met a lot of people and the flexible hours meant I could fit it around my academic, social and sporting commitments.
I fell in love with so many of the topics I studied. My course’s global span meant I could explore European, North and South American, African and Asian histories. The Department’s multidisciplinary approach also allowed me to develop other interests in international relations and politics.
My favourite module was “Special Relationship? Anglo-American Relations since 1900”, taught by the wonderful Dr Sam Edwards. We dissected the evolving intricacies of the Transatlantic relationship. As someone wanting to enter the world of politics, this really helped me understand how and why international relationships change.
Despite my interest in modern history, I chose to study Early Modern England for my dissertation. I examined the growth of popular xenophobia in the 17th century and how it manifested as discriminatory violence during the Great Fire of London in 1666. I wanted to explore a topic with parallels with current events, including the negative narratives around migration, to better understand the world we live in today.
The teaching I experienced was second to none. In all cases, I found my lecturers’ expertise and enthusiasm was matched by their kindness and support. You’ll discover that every lecturer teaches in a unique way. I certainly found myself choosing modules based on who taught them, inspired by their approach.
The lecture halls and seminar rooms are modern, and there are places to study across campus. I prefer to study alone without distractions and frequented Wavy Top’s quieter study spaces. If that’s not for you, the top floor of the Library is an open plan, sociable place to work. What’s more, it has a seemingly endless physical and digital catalogue, so you can always find what you need.
What I’ve learnt at Loughborough will certainly help me in my career. I’ve developed a strong skill set and can confidently express my knowledge and opinions in complex ways.
If you’re considering Loughborough, my only advice is YES!
It’s a great place to grow as a person. You’ll be given all the skills you need to manage your workload and still have a great social life. In your first year, you’ll probably learn as much about yourself and how to live as your chosen degree subject. The welcoming and friendly campus community is the perfect place to do this.
Before I became an undergraduate, I was embarrassed to admit I loved what I studied. I also struggled to meet new people. As a graduate, I’m proud of my passions, and am surrounded by people I love spending time with. I feel well prepared for any challenge life can throw at me.