Lucy

You can find the full course details here.

What did you study at school and college?

At GCSE I took the three sciences, Maths, English Literature, English Language, Music, Drama, History, French, Religious Education and a short course in Economics. At AS level I studied English, Music, Biology and Psychology and then dropped Biology for A2.

What has been your favourite part of the course so far?

My favourite part of the course has been the variety of topics I've been able to study! Doing a joint honours course has meant that I've had so much freedom in choosing what I would like to learn more about.

What are your career aspirations and how will your degree help you get there?

I am hoping to work with children, either as a social worker or as a teacher in a special needs school. Through my degree I have developed creativity, confidence and my communication skills. These skills have already been so helpful in terms of being able to relate to other people and to communicate calmly and effectively.

Why did you pick to study at the University of Leeds?

As soon as I arrived on campus for the open day, I knew I wanted to go to Leeds! I loved how friendly the atmosphere was and the joint honours course offered so much flexibility. I also loved how many opportunities there were to become involved with different societies.

How is studying at university different to school and college?

Studying at University is a lot more independent. You are much more in control to look further into where your interests lie. You also develop time management skills very quickly as your schedule is mostly your own. As an arts student, you have fewer contact hours than other subjects at university so you learn quickly how to plan your time but initially it was a challenge.

What do you do in your free time?

I have loved getting involved with the societies at Leeds! In my first year I was the manager of the 'Sinfonia' Orchestra and in my second year I was President of the Catholic Society. I have found that societies are such a great way to meet new people and to feel a part of the University community. Leeds is also a fantastic city to be a student in as it is filled with great music venues, bars and cinemas but is only a short distance from the countryside. It has been so much fun to explore these places with friends.

What advice would you give your 16 year old self?

I'd tell myself to not worry about too far into the future! I felt a lot of pressure to have my degree and job planned out but with each experience you have you'll learn so much. I'm really glad that I studied a subject I love at university, rather than one that I thought I should for a certain career, as I have changed my mind so much over the last three years.

What are your top tips when applying for University? Is there anything you did that boosted your application?

Make sure that you're applying for something that you really are interested in as that will show! I have always loved reading and was involved with lots of music groups during sixth form so in my application it was clear that I would be committed to the course I had chosen. I think that universities also like you to be well rounded so don't put too much pressure on yourself to focus solely on academia.