Andrea Gonzalez

Please tell us a bit about yourself and your background?

My name is Drea and I’m here finally working on my getting my masters. I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of California, Irvine in Film and Media Studies with a double minor in Criminology and History back in 2017. It took me a while to decide if I would continue my studies, and if I did, what I would focus my studies. Thankfully, I have a very supportive family that encouraged me throughout the process. 

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

Once I had decided on focusing on Museum Studies, I began looking both in the US and in Europe for good programmes that interested me. I decided on Leeds predominantly due to the placement module offered in the second semester. Leeds itself was attractive as well as I’ve never been in the more northern parts of the country.

What is it that makes you passionate about your area of study?

I think a big part of what allows us to evolve is learning from the past. It’s as much a social growth as it is industrial and political. To keep us accountable as people but also as a way to connect with the past, I think museums and heritage sites are vital to us. That being said, there is a propensity to create manufactured histories, and to unlearn these falsehoods museums must take the forefront in these topics and create a space to have such dialogue.

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

There are emails about activities all the time! The only drawback (due to studying during COVID-19) is that many of these activities are virtual and sometimes I feel burnt-out of being on the computer all day. It’s really good to see the AHC Wellbeing Project always providing opportunities to keep connected and have a space to talk with others.

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

Do your research! This School has a great staff that is willing to work with you through almost anything, and I say that with confidence throughout this pandemic. Each programme is different and everyone’s needs are different, but the quality of the education is great.