Case Study

All the way through school and college my focus was on acting and drama, and I was sure acting and script writing would be my career. However, after completing my college course in performing arts, I actually decided I’d like a change, and was inspired to study Sociology at university instead. I chose to study at the University of Sunderland for two reasons – it was close to home and friends who had studied there gave me great reviews.

After completing my undergraduate degree, I decided to come back after a year out and study for the MSc Inequality and Society degree. I received the Alumni Scholarship, which has given me a discount from my course fees. The lecturers teaching the course always have time for you and go above and beyond to help build your CV and get you extra experience. For example, the Programme Leader is extremely active outside of the classroom and tells us about extracurricular talks that are happening and internships we can apply for that can help us gain more skills. This is one of the best things about the course.

During my year out, between finishing my undergraduate degree and starting my master's, I didn’t have much luck with graduate jobs as I couldn’t find one that was right for me. Then, as soon as I started my MSc, I received a conditional offer to join the police through their graduate scheme. The knowledge I have gained through my studies has paid off and the assessors who interviewed me for the position said the course was a great choice for joining the police.

I would advise anyone thinking of going to university to consider all of the course options and think about what you would like to do after you graduate. You don’t necessarily need to have a clear goal in mind, but if you love something and enjoy learning about it, go for it! University is an amazing experience and it will open doors for you.

I have met so many amazing people and made some great friends. University can be challenging, but weirdly some of the best experiences I have had have been sitting with my friends with a deadline due, talking about the assignment and helping each other out. University is an experience you will not get anywhere else.”

Published 12 February 2020