Perry Blankson

What made you want to apply to your course and to Leeds?

I originally completed my BA History course at Leeds, and after an incredible three years I knew I wanted to spend another year here. I chose the MA Modern History course as it offered a wide variety of courses, each of which appealed to my interest in twentieth century global history.

What aspects of the course do you enjoy the most?  

I particularly enjoyed my module on the South-African Anti-Apartheid struggle, which generated some engaging and thoughtful conversations in my seminar group. In general the collegiate aspect of a Masters course was a welcome change from my undergraduate.

Independent study has also been a part of both my Undergraduate and Masters courses and something I’ve come to enjoy, especially concerning the rigorous research required to complete a dissertation.

What would you say about the learning facilities in your School and at the University in general?

Unfortunately my use of the universities’ learning facilities has been limited over the course of pandemic, but the libraries (both digital and physical) are excellent, and there are some great study spaces on campus to suit whatever needs you have. Special mention goes to the Brotherton library, which has been a home-away-from-home during exam season.

What other activities are available for students to take part in outside of their studies (e.g. societies), and which ones have you tried out yourself?

While my contact with university societies has been also been restricted during the pandemic, there really is something for everyone at Leeds. This year I’ve been partially involved in writing for the Gryphon (the University of Leeds student newspaper) and have also given an interview with Leeds Student TV (LSTV), who both do some fantastic work and are student run.

How have you found the transition to online learning in more recent times? Has the School been supportive with this?

It has been a bit of a learning curve getting used to online learning, but after making the transition from an undergraduate course that was primarily independent study led, I acclimatised quite quickly. The School has been incredibly communicative during a period which has been incredibly turbulent for tutors and students alike, and my tutors have all been supportive, accessible through both email and over Microsoft Teams.

What do you plan to do now you’ve finished your course, and how do you think the skills and knowledge you’ve developed at Leeds will help with these plans?

I plan on potentially applying for a PhD in the next academic year, and I have no doubt that the academic and interpersonal skills that I’ve developed in four years at Leeds will be invaluable in helping me pursue this goal.