Emma Cooke

What attracted you to Kent and this programme in particular?

Kent is a very friendly place. The environment is very green and open. As soon as I stepped on campus, I just felt very comfortable here. I originally planned to study law, but ended up choosing the degree in Criminology and Sociology. Criminology is such an interesting and up-and-coming subject, which can be applied to a wide range of jobs, and the School is a very dynamic environment in which to study.

How did you enjoy your undergraduate degree course?

I loved it. The compulsory modules give you a mechanism to grasp the basics of the subject. They are always related to current topics and applicable matters within society, so you really gain a feel for the discipline. There is also a vast range of optional modules to choose from, covering everything, from terrorism to the social politics of food.

Did you find a particular area that interested you?

I really enjoyed exploring cultural criminology. The School specialises in this area and many of the leading academics are based here, which is obviously beneficial.

What about the lecturers?

They are so friendly and engaging, and their doors are always open. It’s not a typical student-teacher relationship – there is no division and you feel you are on a more equal footing, which has been nice.

What are the facilities like?

The campus is really a community within a community. Everything you could possibly need is on your doorstep, from food outlets and bars to academic and sports facilities – there’s even a nightclub. Canterbury city centre is not too far away either. All in all, it’s the perfect environment to live when moving away from home.

What led you to postgraduate study?

In my first and second years, I wasn’t sure of the direction I was heading. However, when I began working on my final-year dissertation, I found my niche. I just felt really comfortable here and wanted to continue my studies at Master’s level and beyond. The pool of people you study alongside at postgraduate level is a lot wider – there are ex-lawyers and ex-business people on my course and it makes for a more interesting dynamic. Obviously you step up a level academically, but I have loved it and now plan to stay on to pursue a PhD.

How have your undergraduate studies helped you?

They have definitely acted as the basis for the academic career path I’m currently following. The programme practically places you in the field, so you get to experience it first hand. I also got involved with lots of extra-curricular activities, such as involvement with the Social Studies Society and the student ambassador and peer mentoring schemes. These are important roles that I’ve conducted alongside my studies to develop my skills and the University has really encouraged and facilitated that.

What are your future plans?

At the moment, I would really like to pursue an academic career. However, that may change over the coming years, so I think I will just take my PhD as it comes.

Do you have happy memories of Kent?

My entire undergraduate degree is one big happy memory, but the highlight for me was definitely graduation and the special sense of achievement I felt on that day.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of coming to Kent?

Kent gives you the opportunity to have the best university experience, but it’s up to you to make the most of it. Get involved with activities and socials, and embrace the community that’s there. It’s the only way you can truly get involved and find your passion with the field.