Olivia
A self-confessed bookworm, Olivia can be found exploring the shelves of the many bookshops in Edinburgh.
What attracted you to the University of Edinburgh and this programme, in particular?
The varied range of modules that were on offer was what mainly attracted me to the taught masters course and the opportunity to be taught by leading historians. In my studies I have been able to explore many different areas of history, from gender and crime in Britain to the Civil Rights movement in the United States. The opportunity to join research groups, such as the gender and sexuality research group, was a big draw and attending the guest lectures has allowed me to engage with topics beyond my classes!
What do you wish you'd worried about less about coming to university?
I wish I’d worried less about settling in to Edinburgh, as I didn’t know anyone and wasn’t familiar with the city before moving here. But Edinburgh is such an amazing place to live and there is always something going on to get involved with!
What one thing would you recommend new students at the University of Edinburgh do?
The welcome week at university was really useful in trying new societies and going on tours of the city to find your way around, so I would recommend going to as many of the varied activities on offer!
Any student wisdom you'd like to pass on?
Everyone starting Edinburgh will be looking to make new friends so start conversations and put yourself out there by making the most of all the amazing societies we have at Edinburgh!
What aspects of student life do you enjoy the most and why?
I love meeting so many new people and having the independence to try new experiences – whether that is exploring new topics or trying new hobbies.
What do you most like about studying here?
The atmosphere at Edinburgh is really welcoming and the seminars are a great place to develop your ideas with other people.
What do you find most challenging and most rewarding about your programme?
I enjoy the flexibility and freedom of the masters course, as you can pursue your own interests in your essays. This may seem daunting at first as you are more independent than at undergraduate level, however it is so rewarding to develop your own knowledge and passion for your subject.
What's a 'must do' at the University of Edinburgh?
Explore the beautiful campus and visit the Talbot Rice art gallery by the law school, then go to the Library bar in the student’s union!
What is your favourite course so far and why?
I loved the course on Gender and Crime, as we got to examine moral panics and changing representations of crime and ‘deviancy’ across a wide chronology up to the present day.
Where is your favourite place to study?
The history building is a great spot to study amongst interesting artefacts and George Square gardens is beautiful on warmer days!
What are your tips for student life in Edinburgh?
Make the most of living in such a beautiful city by exploring as much as you can and keep an eye out for free events!
How is your programme equipping you for your future career?
There are often events through the Masters’ Careers programme where you can get tips on things like writing your CV and the career’s service is really helpful.
What advice would you give to anyone thinking of studying at the University of Edinburgh?
Take a look at the virtual tours of the campus if you can’t visit in person and chat to current students on UniBuddy through the website.