Sam Dedman BA History, 3rd year

I knew as soon as I arrived on Highfield during one of the Open Days that this was the place that I wanted to study. The fact that the History Department was so diverse also helped a great deal – especially since I didn’t know at the time what period of History I wanted to specialise in!

What made you choose to come to study at Southampton?

It sounds really cheesy, but a large part of it was the feel of the place. All of the staff and students were incredibly open and friendly, and I knew as soon as I arrived on Highfield during one of the Open Days that this was the place that I wanted to study. The fact that the History Department was so diverse also helped a great deal – especially since I didn’t know at the time what period of History I wanted to specialise in!

What have been your Southampton highlights so far?

Getting involved with the Students’ Union and all of the work that it does definitely stands out – when I joined the University I never imagined that I would be representing thousands of Humanities students or hosting my own weekly radio show, but here I am! I’ve made many friends, and it really has opened my eyes to fields and long-term options which I would never have considered otherwise.

The other massive highlight for me is getting engaged to my wonderful fiancé in October 2016. We both study at Southampton (Physics for her, History for me – what a combination) – just goes to show that you never know what might happen while at University!

What opportunities have you had to improve your personal development?

The biggest opportunity which I have been part of sort of overlaps with both my degree and extra-curricular stuff. I currently fill the post of Humanities Faculty Officer, working within the Union to represent the views of all Humanities students alongside a fantastic team of Academic Reps. I’ve learnt so much from this role, ranging from how to run an election campaign to how to chair a meeting. I work alongside senior University and Union figures to improve the experience of all students within the Faculty, and while it is hard work it can equally be incredibly rewarding.

Student radio is also worth a mention at this point – I’ve been a member of Surge Radio since year one, not only as an on-air DJ but also on their Marketing and Design Teams. I never considered Marketing as a field that I wanted to explore in the long-term, but Surge has made that happen. Radio work has improved my confidence and public speaking ability no end, and I’d really recommend it to any students looking to try something new and exciting.

How has the research culture at the University informed your teaching?

As a History student research is the lifeblood of what we do, and the Department do a really good job of making sure their students are comfortable conducting it. Not only have I had the chance to complete a Group Project which was based entirely on research, but I’ve also had formal introductions to resources such as the archives available in the Hartley Library. These have not only helped my academic study, but also make me a more efficient and effective researcher generally.

What are you enjoying most about your course?

Right now it would have to be the freedom to pursue and follow topics which I have a real interest in. As someone interested in Imperial History I’ve been able to narrow down my study to something which really plays to my interests – namely the East India Company and its ability to transfer both goods and ideas around the world. There is something immensely rewarding when you’re able to invest yourself so deeply in a topic and confidently argue it – be it in a seminar or in an assignment.

Have you had the opportunity to study modules outside of your core subject area?

The opportunity is certainly present, it is just a case of how far you take it. I’ve remained within History but diversified within it – in my first year I took modules in everything from the Battle of Agincourt (15th century) to McCarthyism (20th century). Equally I have friends who have taken advantage of things like Joint Honours degrees or the Major/Minor scheme, both of which allow them a large amount of flexibility in the work that they do. It really is up to you – don’t be afraid to try something new!

What networking, employment and work experience opportunities have you been involved with?

Employer involvement has actually been fairly consistent over the three years that I have been at Southampton, with regular careers fairs and guest lectures being organised. I’ve had conversations with companies ranging from Deloitte to GAME UK, and all through initiatives organised by the University. It has certainly opened my eyes to the options and possibilities available.

I’m actually in the process for applying for an Easter Internship with a local company right now – the Careers Service at the University do a fantastic job organising and promoting opportunities for students in a variety of companies and organisations. Needless to say, my fingers are firmly crossed!

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

Definitely something either in Marketing or Higher Education. They are both sectors which I have been really fortunate to experience and work within while I have been at Southampton, and they represent fields which I’m not only interested in but am also passionate about.