Hannah Parker

Please tell us a bit about yourself, your background etc?

I’m from Colchester in Essex and took my A-Levels at my local 6th Form College, where I was first taught Sociology. Once completing my A-Levels I started studying at the University of Leeds and carried out a Placement Year in year 3, where I was a Marketing Assistant at a local Leeds company.

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

I wanted to do Sociology after gaining an interest in it at 6th Form College, I found it intriguing and loved all the different ways of thinking. I love that it opens your eyes to things around you in the society that you wouldn’t have noticed before. I picked Leeds to study in because I loved the city, it wasn’t too big and neither too small. I found the Sociology department friendly and helpful, which swayed me to pick Leeds. The university itself had a lot to offer, from lots of societies to nice halls of residences.

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

All the relevant topics, modules and readings are all doing something to help society. They are all trying to uncover social problems in society and it’s interesting to read and be a part of that.

What do you think of your course so far – what aspects of the course have you enjoyed the most or are looking forward to the most?

I’ve really enjoyed my course so far and the freedom you have to pick the modules you are most interested in. I’m particularly looking forward to starting my Dissertation research, where I’ll be interviewing girls on the effects of Instagram on them.

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

Overall they are generally good; the staff are always willing to help and have open door sessions every week so you can go and ask them about anything you’re unsure about. The reception is extremely helpful, especially when wishing to change modules or if you have any queries. The 24 hours computer cluster is also handy for when you have a deadline!

Tell us about your placement year:

I was Marketing Assistant at a local Leeds bed manufacturer, Harrison Spinks.

What does your placement entail?

The placement was extremely varied, with every day being different. Some days I would be doing their social media and the next day I would be at their farm taking pictures of lambs. They had a range of brands from baby mattresses to a wedding venue and so the content was very varied!

What were the highlights?

My highlights were going to the Yorkshire Business Masters Awards with the company (although we didn’t win), and my stay at their farm in luxury accommodation. I also loved making my own mattress!

How have you been able to apply this to your final year?

The writing skills I used throughout my placement year have proved very handy for my essay writing. It has helped me clear up my writing style. Time management and deadline control in my year studying have certainly helped me in my final year too. My placement also helped me grow my confidence enormously which I’ve found has helped push me through final year!  Lastly, it has given me so much to write on my CV, and I’ve been able to finish Uni knowing I’ve got a lot of experience behind me.

I’m so glad I did a placement and would definitely recommend taking a year out to work. Even if you end up deciding you don’t want to carry on with that career path after uni, the transferable skills and CV content you gain is invaluable.

What other activities are available for students to take part in outside of their studies, and which ones have you tried out yourself?

There are so many extra activities to suit anyone and everyone. I tried out tennis society, and having only played tennis a few times previously I was in the beginners group and so didn’t feel out of my comfort zone! The tennis playing was fun, but the socials were just as fun too, and it’s a great way to meet people.

What would you say about Leeds as a city?

Leeds has lots to offer in the way of shopping and nightlife and is within really easy reaching distance from the uni. Everyone is very friendly too!

What do you like to do outside of studying?

I like to socialise with my friends, explore Leeds and go shopping!

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

To have a look at the offered modules across the three years, and make sure there are modules you’d be interested in. There’s no point in picking Leeds if it doesn’t cover areas you’re interested in. I’d also say to ask lots of questions on open days and find out everything you could possibly want to know!

What do you plan to do once you’ve finished your course?

I plan on taking a year out and travelling and working in Australia, to have a bit of a break! Once I’m home after that I hope to find a career in Marketing.