Academic freedom
I wanted a university which offered an equal joint-honours course in English and History, but I got so much more. There is a great amount of freedom in my course, with a wide range of modules to choose from.
I personalised my course to my own interests, making every day enjoyable. I’ve studied topics from Ancient Chinese History to Elizabethan Theatre and even modern children’s literature, all within one course!
First-class support
The lecturers are always very enthusiastic about what they are teaching and are extremely helpful. They are very approachable and down to earth. Their enthusiasm for the topics they teach always shines through and makes the subjects much more interesting to learn about.
The Hartley Library is a valuable resource too. Not only is their website easy to navigate, and they have such a vast selection of books available to check out, but it is also such a peaceful yet productive place to study, especially during exam season.
Expanding horizons
I’ve been fortunate to study for a year abroad at Charles University in Prague. It has been one of the highlights of my degree so far, not just in an academic sense, but also on a personal level. The learning experience was quite different to the UK.
There are more seminars and instead of assignments, there were more exams. There was a lot of opportunity to travel further too. I was fortunate to travel to Brno and Česky Krumlov but also Slovakia, Austria, and Poland.
Taking the train was very easy, it was amazing to have so much at my fingertips. A year abroad added so much to my degree that it's difficult to pick just one thing.
If I had to sum it all up, I would say it offered me some personal growth and the space to do that in a way that isn't available in a standard degree.
I have learnt so many new things and made lifelong memories and friendships while growing in confidence from the experience.
A community campus
The atmosphere on Avenue campus is great! I especially love all the non-academic support and events that make up the student community. I am part of the Gymnastics Society and the Ballroom and Latin Dance Society, and I have had some amazing experiences as part of these societies, including the opportunity to compete within both.
Southampton city
Southampton is a large city, but it still retains the illusion of being a cluster of small towns around a central hub. Because of this, it is easy to find something for everyone. The city centre is a bustling and vibrant place with lots of shops and restaurants, while Southampton Common is a much more tranquil place where you can connect to nature and take time out. There is also great public transport linking everything together, so no part of the city feels inaccessible.
Growing in confidence
I have grown in so many ways while at Southampton. I have gained much more independence and confidence in myself while living in the city, as well as having an increase in subject knowledge that I hope to transfer into my career later in life.
After graduation, I plan to stay in Southampton and complete a PGCE in Secondary English before becoming a qualified teacher. I know the experiences at the University of Southampton will give me a great foundation to make that a reality.
