Stephanie Bennett

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

As soon as I walked into the Brotherton on an open day I knew I had to study at Leeds. Leeds is a high tier university and has a brilliant history department. 

Are you studying a joint honours course? If so, please tell us why you decided to study two subjects and how you think they complement each other.

I study English and history, and they intertwine so integrally with each other that it often doesn’t feel like I’m studying two separate degrees. I’d be bereft without one of them, so I decided to take both.

What is it that makes you passionate about History?

History is genuinely one of my favourite things in life. History is open to possibilities and continuously fascinates and amazes me. 

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

I’ve done classics, English and history Discovery Modules because I wanted to broaden my knowledge and experience.

What would you say about the library and study facilities at the University?

The Brotherton Library is one of my favourite places.

Why did you decide to apply for the role of History Student Times editor and what are your goals for the year?

I decided that I wanted to have a bigger impact on the university and wanted to have a more integral connection with the history department as a whole. I wrote for History Student Times last year and really enjoyed it  and decided I wanted more responsibility in that role.

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

I am currently an Arts editor for the Gryphon, News Editor for the Tab Leeds and a volunteer for the West Yorkshire Archive Service. Being involved develops a lot of skills and instils a confidence I never realised I had.

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

There are many events you can attend and there’s always someone you can get support from.

What do you plan to do once 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’m currently unsure, I may attempt to pursue journalism but I might also do a PhD and teach about Richard III and the Wars of the Roses. 

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

It’s stressful and demands a lot of time if you want to make your degree worthwhile – but it’s also one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.