Ellen Pearce BA Geography

2017 Graduate

Highlights of my time have included the second year field trip to Amsterdam where we were able to conduct our own research on topics of our choice. We also had the opportunity to experience the city and visit the Anne Frank Museum and cycle round the city. All paid for by the course!

Why did you choose to come and study at Southampton?

I actually didn’t make my A-Level grades so came to Southampton through clearing, which has worked out for the best! If I hadn’t come to Southampton, I would have definitely missed out. I’m glad I didn’t make my grades now or I wouldn’t be here!

What is it like studying here?

Studying at Southampton is a unique experience, the lecturers here have real life research experience, which for me is one of the most interesting parts of learning here. Hearing about research your lecturer has gone out into the world to conduct helps you put case studies in perspective. Living in halls in first year down in the city centre at Mayflower Halls enabled me to get a feel of the city of Southampton and enjoy the nightlife, whilst also spending day times on campus. Living in rented accommodation in Southampton also allowed me to experience other parts of the city more, such as Portswood and the common.

What have been your Southampton highlights?

Highlights of my time have included the second year field trip to Amsterdam where we were able to conduct our own research in groups on topics of our choice. This trip also gave us an opportunity to experience the city and see things like the Anne Frank Museum and cycle round the city. All paid for by the course!

How has your time at Southampton helped you to grow as a person?

I think living independently at University in Southampton has given me more life experience. It has also prepared me for further study, particularly through the research I have conducted as part of my course, equipping me for my masters course.

Did you have the opportunity to study modules outside of your core subject area?

I studies modules which were open to students from all programmes, including titles like ‘Understanding Modern China’, ‘The arab world, beyond the headlines’ and ‘global challenges’. These enabled you to work with students outside your course, and learn from lecturers with different skill sets.

What opportunities has studying at Southampton provided you with?

I completed an internship for the property company Grosvenor, whilst studying in the first term of third year, although this was challenging completing this in addition to my dissertation and other modules, it was highly rewarding. For this internship I conducted a research project for the company on sustainable travel habits in one of their new developments. I wouldn’t have been awarded the internship without the recommendation of my personal tutor, this internship will set me apart from other interviewees in future job applications.