Amy Gill BA History, Third Year

I wanted to study at Southampton because it is a Russell Group University, has a diverse history department and I loved the friendliness and community.

What made you choose to come to study at Southampton?

I wanted to study at Southampton because it is a Russell Group University, has a diverse history department and most importantly has a great atmosphere. I loved the friendliness and community that came across on Avenue Campus.

What have been your Southampton highlights so far?

I really enjoyed the second year Group Project. I was able to research a unknown piece of history, the Serbian Refugee Movement to Southampton, and explain my findings in a number of ways. It was interesting to consider how to explain information to both an academic audience and a secondary school classroom.

What extra curricular opportunities have you been involved with? In what ways are they helping your personal development?

There is an active and vibrant History Society here at Southampton. I’ve found it a great way to meet like-minded historians and it has provided me with such a range of opportunities. From playing Netball in a four team club, taking on charity quizzes, the infamous Orange Army Pub Crawl, going on an amazing trip to Barcelona and now being the Vice President of the society. There is such a diverse range of people, with over 400 members, so it a great way to meet everyone.

What are you enjoying most about your course?

I have enjoyed the flexibility that the course has provided me. My historical interests have completely changed since arriving at Southampton and that is because I have been able to explore a range of interests. In my first and second year I studied varying topics including: Medieval Britain, Napoleon, Henry VIII, The Troubles in Northern Ireland and McCarthyism. This ability to diversify has allowed me to discover my specific interest in Refugees.

What networking, employment and work experience opportunities have you undertaken and how have they enhanced your undergraduate experience?

Southampton is not only interested in your academic progress, but supports you in exploring career options. The compulsory Humanities Employability Module meant that I started to consider my career options early and equipped me with the time and resources to expand my CV. I have made use of the networking opportunities available at the Career Fairs and specific company events, such as the Civil Service Alumni Panel. In recognising the skills I needed for my career ambition I seized opportunities such as becoming a committee member for a society, a student ambassador and peer mentor, which have not only enhanced my CV but have made my University experience something truly unforgettable.

Do you have any idea of what you would like to do in the future? Have the opportunities you have taken up while at the University helped you have a clearer idea of what you might like to do?

The Humanities Employability Module made me aware of the Graduate opportunities available to students for an elite university like Southampton. The opportunities I have taken part in while at university have made me realise that I like to be involved in a team environment and active in making change for the public. I am therefore looking at career paths that include Marketing and Business Management.