Starting a postgraduate programme is a life-changing choice, both intellectually and personally. It provides a chance to pursue a career that resonates with your passions, to dive further into your intellectual interests, and to foster personal growth. This decision led me back to the University of Essex, where I graduated with my BSc in Management and Marketing. In this blog, I'll discuss my personal experience and why I opted to pursue postgraduate studies in an area that interests me, at the University of Essex, from the discovery of my genuine love during my undergraduate years to the supportive atmosphere and practical benefits afforded by the institution.

One of the key reasons for my choice to pursue postgraduate studies in Politics at the University of Essex stems from the revelation of my interest in politics during the final year of my undergraduate degree. This occurred when I had the option of selecting "American Political Institutions" as an optional module from the Department of Government while studying Management and Marketing. It was a transformative event that opened my eyes to the complexities and dynamics of the US political environment and fuelled my desire to study and find out more. My discovery through this optional module in my final year played a pivotal role in my decision to pursue postgraduate studies in Politics. It not only ignited my passion for the subject but also provided me with a solid foundation and a hunger for further exploration. By embarking on a postgraduate program in this field, I was excited to immerse myself in advanced research and contribute to the body of knowledge.

Pursuing postgraduate studies at the University of Essex allowed me to broaden my knowledge, sharpen my analytical abilities, and interact with specialists who shared my enthusiasm. I've also realised that it's perfectly ok and natural to change our minds and study something completely different.

Transitioning from my undergraduate degree in Management and Marketing to postgraduate studies in a field aligned with my passion was an opportunity for personal growth and reinvention. While my undergraduate studies provided me with valuable skills and knowledge in the business realm, I came to realise that my heart was pulling me in a different direction. I yearned for a change that would allow me to align my academic pursuits with my authentic self and explore a subject that resonated deeply with me. By stepping outside my comfort zone, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and personal development.

Through my postgraduate studies, I had the opportunity to delve deep into the intricacies of politics, engage with advanced concepts and theories, and participate in stimulating academic debates. This process of intellectual growth has not only expanded my knowledge but also sharpened my critical thinking skills, enhanced my research abilities, and fostered a greater capacity for analysis and synthesis. The transferable skills I’ve acquired through postgraduate studies, such as critical thinking, research methodology, and effective communication, will equip me with a broader toolkit that can be applied to a range of industries and positions. This versatility enhances my employability and opens up new career opportunities for me.

The University of Essex holds a special place in my heart, not only because it is where I completed my undergraduate studies but also because of the supportive and nurturing academic environment it offers . First and foremost, the friendships and connections I have made during my time as an undergraduate at the University of Essex are invaluable. Continuing my studies at the same university meant that I could maintain these relationships, allowing for a seamless transition into the postgraduate program. Additionally, studying at the University of Essex for my postgraduate program offers practical advantages, such as the alumni discount offered by the university, which makes pursuing further education more financially feasible.

My choice to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Essex was a significant turning point in both my intellectual and personal development. I embraced the change and went on a journey that resonated with my actual self by shifting to a career that coincides with my true love. The environment, academic brilliance, and practical advantages of the University of Essex made it the ideal place for my educational path. Friendships, alumni discounts, pandemic recovery, and familiarity with the surroundings all add to an empowering environment. I am convinced that with the University of Essex as my academic home, I will achieve personal growth, self-discovery, and a future determined by my genuine passions and objectives.

Find out more about studying postgraduate at University of Essex here.

Students graduating