The start of my day
It is safe to say that I am not a morning person, so my day usually doesn’t begin before 11am where my timetable allows. I cycle everywhere to save time travelling – I also live at the top of a hill so zooming down in the morning with the breeze on my face always helps to wake me up!
What are my teaching/contact hours like?
Social sciences and humanities subjects usually don’t have many contact hours. Currently, I have approximately 9-12 hours per week which consist mainly of lectures and seminars, with some workshops and the occasional computer practical thrown into the mix. I spend time in between contact hours studying in one of the many workspaces available, which helps me stay productive – my favourite spot is the Engineering lounge as it is near most of my lectures and is generally less busy than the main university library.
Lectures are great to learn the basics on a topic, for instance in Political Philosophy we learn the main theories surrounding an argument. I learn the details in seminars, workshops, and independent studying. The seminars, particularly in Philosophy and Politics modules, sometimes allow for quality academic discussions and debates which really help with essay writing. In computer practicals, I am learning to use Stata software for my Econometrics module – a nice addition to my CV!
The opportunities are endless!
There is no PPE department, so I am part of all three individual departments: SGIA (School of Government and International Affairs), Philosophy, and the Business School (which encompasses all of Economics). Being part of three departments results in triple the opportunities e.g. career/networking events, optional lectures, department socials, and more. There is a PPE society as well as individual Economics, Politics and International Relations, and Philosophy societies to get involved in.
Work hard, play hard…
There are so many things to get involved in outside of my degree. I am part of Grey College Boat Club, so spend time on the River Wear, usually trying not to capsize. I recently competed in Durham Small Boats Head – unfortunately not winning. I am also the club treasurer so spend time maintaining our financial accounts and budgeting.
There are so many other things I spend the day doing including going on runs, playing mixed lacrosse and working behind the Grey College bar, to name a few. With the right time management, I have easily been involved in lots of sports, societies, and committees.
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