Why did you choose to study at LSE?
I studied history as an undergraduate at LSE as well, and I decided to continue on here for the same reasons I chose to come to the university three years ago. Regardless of its fantastic reputation, LSE offered me an opportunity to meet people from all different backgrounds and cultures, from all over the world, which is something I had never experienced before university. At the same, I was certain that, along with many other students, I would conclude my studies (either undergraduate or graduate) with the satisfaction of knowing I had worked hard, with the support of both students and teachers alike, with something I could be immensely proud of at the end. In such a fantastic location, with something (social or academic) for everyone, LSE was a perfect choice for me.
What are the benefits of studying in London?
Being right in the middle of such a diverse and exciting city, studying in London both compliments and broadens our education and outlook on life. Even though I have lived just outside London all my life, I know I still have much to discover in the city. Personally, I have benefited from LSE close proximity to places to research, such as the British Library, the National Archives or various different libraries. I have also been able to find a great part-time job right next to LSE, which has helped pay for my studies and social life, while knowing my studies will not suffer for it. The hundreds of historic and cultural sights, excellent restaurants and good transport links (for short adventures abroad or nearer home) will satisfy any student who wants to study at LSE.
Why did you choose the MSc Empires, Colonialism and Globalisation?
The Empires, Colonialism and Globalisation course was something I had not seen offered anywhere else. I wanted to continue my studies in history after graduating, but I also wanted to avoid the general histories which a traditional MA in history seemed to suggest. This course at LSE, on the other hand, was a chance to study a specific type of history, but with the opportunity to incorporate many other areas of study (such as politics, philosophy and economics) which I had not really studied before in depth. These topics, especially colonialism and globalisation, mean so much to the modern world, but we hear these words used all the time, often incorrectly, but by studying them in depth, I hoped to be able to see the world in a new light.
What did you hope to gain from your degree?
I hoped to gain a better understanding of history, and improve my skills at arguing historical points. Of course, this had been the point of an undergraduate history degree, but I felt this degree would be an opportunity to discuss historical ideas with new people with different (and perhaps more mature) opinions on the matter. I feel more confident about understanding some concepts (especially regarding historical theories) that perhaps I was vague about as an undergraduate. I also feel more confident about taking a view on a matter and being able to argue for it knowing my argument can be supported. In this regard, the emphasis on discussion and debate, which has been quite key to this course, has been a great benefit, as well as enjoyable, for me.
How did you find the teaching, supervision and social life within the department?
The teaching and support from the department has been very good for this course. All of my teachers have been enthusiastic and engaging in class, as well as offered informative advice outside of teaching hours. As mentioned previously, the focus on discussion has been a good part of this year, and the role of the teachers has been exceptional for guiding us to fully understand and appreciate the topics we have covered. In addition, I have enjoyed the social life of being a graduate student. Events, such as quizzes and trips to the pub, have been great chances to escape the stresses of work (with people who understand my pain) as well as talk to like minded individuals. The stronger focus on department socialising is a great improvement from the undergraduate experience, and it has been a nice chance to socialise with other students in a more relaxed and intelligent fashion, rather more so than as an undergraduate.
What are you planning to do next?
I have been able to secure full time employment at my part-time job (I work at a genealogical firm), which is excellent as I get to stay in London and use my research skills which I have learnt as part of my years studying history. I hope in future to be able to look for employment elsewhere, in areas where research and the need for strong arguments is vital, such as in politics, business or journalism, which are all fields of interest for me. Furthermore, I feel doing a graduate degree leaves the door open for the potential to do further study sometime in the future by creating the motivation and good work-ethic needed.
What has been the most exciting or challenging part or your degree?
The degree has made me see things in a completely new light, which has both been exciting, but also quite challenging. It has been rewarding to look further into concepts which seem so simple at first, but actually are extremely complex and varied (such as the definitions of “empire” and “society”). It has been perhaps unnerving in a way to realise that so much in the world is not as simple as we all think it is, and I never thought I would start to notice how even everything things, such as clothing, language, beliefs and even interests, can be a reflection of a globalised past and present, with various unobvious meanings which reflect society. It has been challenging to try and see beyond the obvious interpretations of historical ideas and concepts, but it is exciting that I finally feel confident enough to approach them using new knowledge to try and interpret them for myself.