Selina Stroud

What attracted you to studying at Kent?

I came to Kent for an open day and immediately felt welcome. The campus felt extremely inviting and it’s easy to find your way around. I knew Kent placed well in the league tables for Sociology, so I was keen to see the department and the modules available and was not disappointed! For me, the academic side was the most important, but I was thrilled to discover the wide range of societies and activities available and I am much more involved in these than I expected to be.

How did you feel when you first arrived?

I was excited and apprehensive in equal measure, but the whole process was straightforward. My accommodation was really nicely presented, clean and had lots of storage.

How is your course going?

It’s been going really well this year and has been engaging throughout. I have been able to take optional modules in the areas that interest me – there was a varied and lengthy list of optional modules, so I knew it would be easy to find something I loved.

Which modules have you enjoyed most, and why?

For me, the most enjoyable module has been the Sociology of Everyday Life. It’s given me a really interesting perspective on a wide range of topics that sociology covers, with what we study being applied to everyday situations. I also really enjoyed the introductory module on criminology, which is why I’ve focused my selection of optional modules on criminology for the coming year.

How would you describe your lecturers?

My lecturers are all extremely passionate about their subject areas, which in turn inspires my interest. There is a lot of support available, such as seminars to help reinforce what the lecturer has taught, in an environment more suited to questions and discussion.

And what about your fellow students?

There’s a lot of diversity at Kent, and I find this benefits my seminar experience as it means there are many different viewpoints within debates. Everyone is here to learn and is enthusiastic about the subject area, so the environment is friendly.

What are the facilities like on campus?

There are a huge amount of facilities, such as the library, the sports centre and the cinema. There are lots of cafés to socialise or work in, and many study areas for individual or group activities. There are also a few bars, and the campus nightclub, which means you never have to go far for a night out!

Do you belong to any clubs or societies?

I’m a member of the Trampolining Society and absolutely love it. It has introduced me to a wide range of people from different year groups who aren’t on my course or living in my accommodation, which has been fun! I have been nominated for President next year and can’t wait to get further involved!

What kind of career do you hope to follow when you leave?

Initially, I hope to take a Master’s in one aspect of sociology. I hope this will allow me to develop my knowledge and undertake research that I can build on in my future career. I’m also interested in studying and working abroad and am fortunate to study at a university with many international connections, which can make this possible.

Any advice to somebody thinking of coming to Kent?

Kent is an ideal place to come to if you love social science and enjoy living and working in a relaxed environment. Although it is important to work hard, it is just as important to have fun, and this balance is easy to find here!