Tayler Groom Modern History & Politics
The opportunities I have taken up whilst at university have definitely helped me decide on what path to follow – had I not studied abroad, and made the most of societies such as AIESEC, I doubt I would have come to be so interested in development, and so well placed to pursue a career in this field.
What made you choose to come to study at Southampton?
I applied to Southampton based on the course structure and the module options, and also because I fell in love with Highfield campus when I came for an Open Day.
What have been your Southampton ‘highlights’ (best experiences) so far?
Definitely studying abroad. And working as a blogger both whilst in Japan and during my final year.
What opportunities have you taken up (within your degree programme and extra-curricular)? In what ways are they helping your personal development?
I have taken up a number of very different opportunities whilst at university, including studying abroad, working as a student ambassador and now as a blogger, participating in societies including AIESEC, and becoming travel editor for the Wessex Scene. I feel that all of the activities I have undertaken have significantly assisted in both my personal and professional development, enabling me to develop skills valued by employers, as well as confidence and independence.
What are you enjoying most about your course?
The interdisciplinary nature of the course during my final year, and the ability to focus on my area of interest through my dissertation.
Do you have the opportunity to study modules outside of your core subject area, and how do you think they are adding to your experience / will affect your future plans?
Although I did not have this opportunity during the first two years of my course, changes have now enabled me to take a Geography module during my final year. I was also able to take classes from a wide range of subjects during my study abroad year. I definitely think these have assisted in my decision to pursue an interdisciplinary subject at Masters level following my degree.
What networking, employment and work experience opportunities have you undertaken and how have they enhanced your undergraduate experience?
I like to think I’ve made the most of the University careers service, attending a variety of events including one-to-one CV sessions with individual companies, and attending careers fairs, where I was able to network with a number of different graduate employers.
In terms of work experience, I have worked both for the University, and on placements which I gained through university-based societies, particularly AIESEC. These have both made my time at university more fulfilling, and have helped boost my employability dramatically in terms of CV building.
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?
I would like to work in the field of international development, specifically in the area of food security and sustainable agriculture. The opportunities I have taken up whilst at university have definitely helped me decide on what path to follow – had I not studied abroad, and made the most of societies such as AIESEC, I doubt I would have come to be so interested in development, and so well placed to pursue a career in this field.
