"My lecturers' passion really ignited my own passion for sociology and social research, so it felt an obvious decision to continue my studies here."

Why did you originally choose to study at The University of Sheffield?

I chose to study at Sheffield because of its reputation as an excellent University, not only nationally but internationally too. I also knew that the University had a great research background and I had dreamt of completing a PhD for a long time. The Department of Sociological Studies is considered as one of the top ten in the Russell Group in terms of research output; there are always lots of exciting research projects taking place in the University. So, this was something that really excited me and something that I wanted to be a part of in the years to come. My decision to study at Sheffield was also made based on my first trip to the University for an Open Day. I loved how open the University space was, its closeness to parks and shops, as well as the feel of the city. 

Tell us a little about your higher education journey at Sheffield...

I graduated with a BA honours degree in Sociology in 2016. That same year, I was awarded an Economic and Social Research Council 1+3 scholarship to complete an MA in Social Research and PhD at the University. I completed my Masters in the Sheffield Methods Institute (SMI), and I was one of their first graduates. I really enjoyed the Masters degree as it gave me an opportunity to develop my research skills, figure out what I wanted to study in my PhD and develop other really important professional skills. I am currently in the very final stages of my PhD and I will hopefully submit my thesis in the not so distant future! 

At the end of each programme of study, what made you decide to move to the next level, and at Sheffield?

Doing an Undergraduate degree at the University of Sheffield really equipped me with the skills to be able to conduct research and complete a PhD. Moreover, I always felt so inspired by the seminar leaders and lecturers in the Department. Their passion really ignited my own passion for sociology and social research, so it felt an obvious decision to continue my studies here. I have always felt very supported by the academics and staff I’ve met in the Department, and they have been encouraging throughout my studies. That is one of the best things about the Department of Sociological Studies – everyone makes you feel welcome! Moreover, the Department is a place with so many exciting research projects, diverse research themes and interesting events, which are open to students and staff. Beyond the Department, I love Sheffield as a city. A lot of people say that once you go to Sheffield, you never leave! There is definitely truth to this. Sheffield is such a homely place, there is so much to do and see, I just haven’t wanted to leave! 

Tell us a little about your current PhD research and why you chose this area of research...

My PhD research adopts an ethnographic approach to explore how hospice workers manage their emotions at work. I carried out observations and interviews over a six month period to explore how the hospice staff developed relationships with patients and the types of day-to-day interactions they had with people reaching the end of life. This research was actually inspired by a module I took in the second year of my undergraduate degree, which was taught by one of my supervisors, Dr Matthias Benzer. I became really interested in how people react to and engage with suffering, which was one of the topics he covered in the module. Matthias’ manner of teaching, and his own passion for the subject, really inspired me to go on to research this area. 

Doing a PhD in the Department, you receive so much support, invaluable practical guidance and academic freedom. My PhD research is quite sensitive and it has been challenging at times, but I have felt so supported in doing the research by my supervisors, other academics and staff in the Department. I feel able to share my research experiences and talk with academics as well as other PhD students, which has really helped over the last three years. 

What do you think about Sheffield as a city? What is your favourite thing to do here?

I love how Sheffield has the perfect mix of vibrant city life and big, open spaces of green countryside. Although it’s quite a big city, the people are so friendly, and the city feels homely. I love to go for walks in the Peak District or in the woods near where I live at the weekends. Wherever you are in Sheffield you are never too far from a nice place to go for a walk. When the pandemic is over, I can’t wait to go back to one of Sheffield’s amazing independent restaurants – Ecclesall Road has some great options! I think Sheffield has something for everyone. 

What are your plans for the future, following the completion of your PhD?

I want to stay in academia and I’m applying for post-doctorate fellowships at the moment, to hopefully carry on with the research I’ve conducted during my PhD. Ultimately, I hope to become a professor one day, as I have been inspired by so many of the wonderful academics in the Department. My future is uncertain, but I know that my degrees have equipped me with a range of skills. 

What advice would you offer to new students?

Definitely pick the modules that most interest you, and that you know you will enjoy. I think if you enjoy something and you feel passionate about it, then you are more likely to do well. 

I would also say that you should never feel frightened about asking a question of any of your seminar leaders or any of the lecturers and departmental staff. Everyone is so supportive and helpful within the Department – they are here to support you! The Department gives you a sense of academic and intellectual freedom, but the staff are also there when and if you need them, so do make sure to reach out if you need to. 

Lastly, throw yourself into things. I probably didn’t do that enough during my undergraduate degree, but there are so many fun events, societies and clubs to join – you only do this once, so enjoy it and make sure to get what you want from the University experience.