I chose to study MA History at Manchester because it was the perfect opportunity to take my passion for history to the next level and an essential step in my goal of becoming an academic. I decided to continue at the University of Manchester because of the incredible experience I had whilst studying BA History here. The vast range of modules offered allowed me to explore diverse areas of history, with the breadth of expertise in the department allowing me the freedom to pursue my interests in both coursework and my thesis.

After my undergraduate studies, I knew I wanted to delve deeper into historical research and explore more specialized topics in greater depth, particularly themes of race, humanitarianism, and conflict. The program not only helped me to hone my skills but gave me the confidence to take on more ambitious, independent work. Manchester’s vibrant academic community, access to world-class resources, and expert guidance from leading historians provided an intellectually stimulating environment where I could refine my critical thinking, research methodologies, and academic writing—crucial skills for my ongoing PhD studies. Studying MA History at Manchester was not just a step forward but a transformative journey, preparing me to contribute meaningfully to academic debates.

The friendliness and approachability of the lecturers, who created an encouraging and open environment where I felt comfortable seeking advice, discussing ideas, and engaging in debates, played a key role in my decision to stay at Manchester. The sense of community fostered by both academics and students made the University of Manchester the perfect place to continue my studies and I am proud to now be pursuing my PhD here, continuing my academic journey in an institution that has consistently nurtured my growth as a historian.

The highlight of my MA History course has been conducting independent and original research for my dissertation, which explored the impact of human rights abuses during the Vietnam War on Romanian-US bilateral relations. This project allowed me to delve into a relatively underexplored area of the Vietnam War, examining how Romania navigated its complex position during the Cold War. Through my research and analysis of rarely used primary sources, including Romanian state media and records from Radio Free Europe, I was able to provide a unique case study that illuminated how the Vietnam War influenced Romania’s political and economic interests in relation to the United States.

This experience not only strengthened my commitment to research but reinforced the importance of postgraduate students to providing new insights and perspectives to historical research. The encouragement and guidance I received from both my supervisor and fellow students allowed me to pursue my research with confidence and creativity, reminding me of the collaborative spirit that defines the academic community at the University of Manchester.

The best thing about living and studying in Manchester is the city’s vibrant and diverse atmosphere. The presence of students from all over the world at the University has allowed me to connect with people from various cultures and backgrounds, enriching my personal life in ways I hadn’t anticipated. Making friends from across the globe has not only broadened my understanding of different cultures but also created lasting connections that I truly value. This multicultural environment has enhanced my perspective on life and provided a sense of community that I cherish, making my experience here both fulfilling and unforgettable.

Throughout my course, I have engaged in various extracurricular activities both within and outside the University, which have been essential in shaping not only my personal development but also my research focus. Through the University’s connections with educational organizations such as BHZ Connection, I have had the opportunity to teach English to children in Brazil, which was an incredibly rewarding experience. I’ve also taught English to Ukrainian children in Manchester, allowing me to connect with diverse communities and share language skills in meaningful ways. Additionally, I have taken on roles such as student representative while pursuing my MA.

My passion for social justice and human rights, fostered through volunteering, was formative in my module choices during my MA. My volunteering experiences have provided me with valuable insights and a deeper understanding of the issues that matter to me, allowing me to bring a more informed and compassionate perspective to my research.

These extracurricular activities have enriched my time outside of seminars, providing me with invaluable experiences, friendships, and have contributed significantly to my personal development. They have added depth and enjoyment to my University experience, making my time at the University of Manchester even more fulfilling.

I have just started my PhD at the University of Manchester this year, focusing on the Japanese American Redress movement. My time here during my BA and MA was instrumental in shaping my decision to pursue a PhD, with the support I received from my lecturers instilling within me the confidence to pursue an academic career. My MA played a formative role in shaping my PhD topic with courses such as Race, Migration, Humanitarianism and War, Culture, and Conflict, led by my current PhD supervisors, equipping me with the analytical tools and critical frameworks necessary to develop this project.

The skills I developed throughout my studies and extracurricular activities, such as teaching and taking on student representative roles, have also enhanced my ability to engage with diverse perspectives and communicate effectively. These experiences have not only enriched my academic journey but have also positioned me well for future opportunities both in and outside of academia.

Written by Sophie Stanford PHD Student, MA History 2024

Related