Scott Lewis

Please tell us a bit about yourself and your background.

I’m from a working class background and am the first person from my family to attend university. The University offered a scholarship for those from disadvantaged backgrounds to undertake postgraduate study. Without this funding it would not have been possible for me to undertake the MA; it was a real lifeline and I will be forever grateful. 

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

Linguistics is a fascinating subject, providing insight into the most fundamental of human behaviours: language. Language has helped to craft civilisation; it is our greatest tool and one which we really ought to try and understand. Linguistics provides such a means of understanding; it makes explicit the implicit patterns which govern our language.

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

I studied for my undergraduate degree here at Leeds and took a discovery module in Linguistics, so I had witnessed first-hand the world-class teaching, learning opportunities and facilities offered by the University. I also knew that its reputation, both nationally and internationally, meant that my MA would be recognised by employers and academic institutions alike.

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

To anyone thinking of applying to study Linguistics at Leeds, I would say one thing: do it! The teaching is excellent and the lecturers are knowledgeable, experienced and approachable, going out of their way to ensure that sessions are engaging, intellectually stimulating and well-paced. As a part-time student with work commitments, I couldn’t have had a better experience with my tutor and other academic staff, who were incredibly accommodating and made themselves available to talk, discuss ideas and offer advice at short notice.

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?

Now that I have finished the course, I will be undertaking a PhD at Queen Mary University of London, having achieved an editorial assistant studentship. Without the skills and knowledge gained throughout the course of my time at Leeds, I would not be in a position to undertake further study - the Linguistics department at Leeds have provided me with a love of Linguistics and a drive to achieve further academic success.