Lewis Hodges

Please tell us a bit about yourself and your background?

I play a lot of sport, predominantly football and athletics. I have a keen interest in history, politics and philosophy, which is largely why I chose to study PPE. 

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

This course at the University of Leeds appealed to me due to the synoptic appreciation it holds for the three course disciplines. Many PPE courses across the country study philosophy, politics and economics separately; there is rarely content that focuses upon merging their study. At Leeds there is a real focus both in terms of module choice and in teaching approach that ensures the three complementary disciplines are integrated appropriately. 

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

PPE is a course that provides students with the ability to look at the world through multiple different lenses that each complement one another. It encourages a holistic way of thinking that no other course can provide; in learning more about each of the separate disciplines, and how they interact with one another, it nurtures the capability to answer some of life’s toughest questions in a more complete manner. 

What aspects of the course did you enjoy the most?  

The first year PPE seminar, exclusive to PPE students, was my favourite part of the course. Not only is it a great opportunity to get to know your fellow students and the PPE programme director, but it also starts to draw together the three separate disciplines into a more synoptic approach. This is a facet of the= course that sets the tone for the rest of your undergraduate study and is a unique feature of PPE at Leeds; many other PPE programmes across the country opt to study the three disciplines separately. 

What has been the most surprising thing about coming to Leeds?

The most surprising thing about coming to Leeds was how great the campus facilities are. The libraries each offer a unique feel that can match a range of different working styles. The Edge caters for just about any sporting activity you could wish to pursue, and the campus architecture makes moving from lecture to lecture a pleasure rather than a task. 

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

One of the best features of the School of Philosophy, Religion and History of Science is how supportive all of the staff are. Whether it be queries about course content, extracurricular discussion or personal issues, every conversation is received positively and with the appropriate guidance. 

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

One of the best parts of the PPE course at Leeds is the tight-knit relationship that exists between PPE students. Unlike many other courses, PPE students spend a lot of time in seminars together exclusively, and as a result many close bonds are formed. Furthermore, there is a PPE Society that looks to bring together students from all years of study with a range of events. These include guest lectures, nights out and debating forums. It is a really special dynamic and it makes university life all the more enjoyable. 

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?

Following graduation, I opted to study MSc Management Consulting at the University of Leeds. Studying PPE has been incredibly beneficial to my postgraduate pursuits and the consulting work that I have done - the lateral thinking and holistic world view that it encourages has helped me to think of innovative solutions to issues that clients have expressed. Furthermore, the people-orientated setup of the course at Leeds has benefitted my ability to build open and trustful working relationships with new people at a quick pace. This is a priceless skill to have within the consulting industry as it facilitates a higher level of personnel cooperation, which in turn eases the process of identifying and dealing with client issues