Throughout my childhood, the dining table was always a place where interesting discussions emerged. During which both my brother and I were welcomed to take part of. It could offer an intense feminist debate with my Mom and her friends. Or an intriguing discussion about immigration’s effects on a state’s welfare system. I believe this was where my interest for social policy first began to grow. This ultimately shaped my decision when considering what degree I should study.
So how is it going?
I am now half way through my second term at Essex and I am still quite pleased with my degree module choice for this year. A year back, I took the opportunity to study a month long course in philosophy. It was unfortunately not as expected. So, when I was encouraged to add political philosophy to my course here at Essex, I was not easily convinced at first. But I gave in and this subject has surprisingly become one of my most beloved modules. It is fascinating how more than two thousands years old theories can still be relevant to this day. It makes you question things you were certain of and consider other things you previously dismissed. Many interesting arguments have sprung out of discussions among students of different nationalities and this class has become the highlight of my week!
I enjoy the mix of modules and I am happy that when I was thinking about what degree to study I chose a joint degree. A joint degree has enabled me to take part of different ways to approach political science. I have learned how to approach foreign policy through different theories and learnt so much about the British political system. Both its historical background and why the sovereignty is resided in the Crown. The programme in itself requires a whole lot of reading and essay writing, meaning coursework, which takes some time to master. However, with available guidance from teachers and lecturers, you improve every time.
Last term, three of my essay deadlines collided in the very last week before the holiday break. This became quite a challenge when the routine of planning was not yet there. In the Government department, the first year students exams are scheduled in the end of the academic year. They will include, more or less, everything covered in those specific modules. This year I am lucky to only have two different exams, in two different modules which will give me a nice introduction to the British exam periods.
What degree? – things to consider!
I would say that my chosen degree reflects my personal interests pretty well. I am lucky to have found a programme which (so far) has met my academic expectations splendidly. However, there are many aspects to be taken into account when considering what degree to pursue. Many students make their decision based on what future prospects their degree will provide them. I have taken a conscious decision of embarking in a highly attractive field with few jobs available. Which I know will require me to fight hard for future career opportunities. However, I cannot imagine any other degree that would be able to offer me the same intriguing content. I would argue that the most fundamental condition to excel in your future job is to do something you truly enjoy!
Another thing to keep in mind when considering what degree to study is that it is usually pretty simple to change course if the chosen one does not seem to fit you. I changed my chosen degree from a BSc to Ba in the beginning of this term. I did this because I realised that I preferred to pursue a different kind of degree. With less modules with scientific methods and more modules discussing interesting topics. Other friends have even changed departments, and even university.
So nothing is impossible. Although, it is a good idea to talk things over with a university advisor or course tutor before making your choice or a change, in order to find out what fits both your personal interests and eligibility. Thanks to my advisor at Uni Direct, I was able to apply to an English university in the very last minute through clearing and was lucky to find a course I truly enjoy!
Feel free to contact me for more info about my story or share your own enthusiasm. Other questions or your own tips for a Fresher like me in the comments below
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