Susy Goldstone

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

For most of my time in high school, I actually wanted to study English Literature at university but I changed my mind when I started sixth form because I found that A-Level History was more interesting to me. I wanted somewhere that was still a campus university, but was within walking distance of both the city centre and the student area, and Leeds was one of the few universities I visited which fit these criteria.

What is it that makes you passionate about History?

I am passionate about History because I think it’s easier to understand the events of today when you look into the past. History does repeat itself, and studying history allows you to see how the factors that led to an event several hundred years ago can have some bearing on the modern day. 

Which History modules have you particularly enjoyed studying, and why?

I particularly enjoyed studying ‘The Tudors: Princes, Politics and Piety, 1485-1603’. The Tudors have fascinated me since I first learned about Henry VIII’s wives at the age of eight, and this module was one of the factors that drew me to Leeds when I was applying. It was great to be able to expand my existing knowledge and have it count towards my degree.

Which Discovery Modules have you studied, and how do you feel they have enhanced your time in Leeds? 

Another reason I chose the University of Leeds was because of the Discovery Modules available. I still wanted to be able to pursue Creative Writing modules, as this was partially why I had originally wanted to study English Literature, and the University enabled me to do this. I have studied two Creative Writing modules in the last two years – one of which was Writing Science-Fiction, Fantasy and Horror, and it was a writing exercise in this module that gave me an idea for a novel. I finished writing the first draft of this novel over the summer. I would never have come up with the idea if it wasn’t for that Discovery Module. 

What activities have you been involved in outside of your course and what have you got out of being involved? 

Joining societies is one of the best ways of making friends at university, so that’s exactly what I did in my first year! Plus, getting involved also looks great on your CV. I was on the committee for the Dancesport (Ballroom and Latin) Club in my second year, and am currently the Secretary for the Opera Society, so I have gained lots of experience that sets me apart from other candidates when applying for jobs. 

What would you say about Leeds as a city and how do you think it has helped you make the most of your time here?

Leeds is such a well-connected city, and it’s allowed me to do so much outside of my studies. It’s just over a two-hour train to London, which has been great for visiting family, and it’s also surrounded by the amazing Yorkshire countryside. This has helped me increase my independence, by taking day trips to places like York or Ilkley, as everything is so easy to get to and affordable.

Do you have any comments about the support you receive from the School of History?

The School of History have loads of measures in place to help you settle in and make the most of your course. All lecturers have a designated office hour each week that they set aside for students who need some guidance, or have questions about the module. First Years are also contacted by their personal tutor, who is there to support their students’ studies as well as anything else that the student might need to talk about. 

What would you say to anyone thinking of applying to your course?

I wouldn’t change a thing about my decision to study History at Leeds. I’ve made the most amazing friends here and had wonderful experiences both within my degree and within societies on campus.!