Beyond the Books

BEYOND THE BOOKS DISCOVER THE POSSIBILITIES OF ENGLISH 2

Introduction

EDITORS’ NOTE Dear reader, You are thinking seriously about studying English at university – congratulations!

Now you need to make sure this decision is the right one and choose which university to attend. We want to make this easier for you.

This is not another piece of corporate marketing material; this is real life student experience. We are three current students at different stages of university life who have compiled this brochure together to provide exclusive insights into what it is like to be an undergraduate at the University of Southampton. This brochure is the first of its kind, and collaborating on it has given us the chance to look back on our degrees and to share what we wish we’d known before starting.

We have written this booklet in order to provide future students – like you – with an idea of what studying, living, and belonging to Southampton University is really like. The following pages describe our genuine experiences during our time here as English students.

Open Days and talks with student ambassadors can be difficult to absorb and recall after a long day; therefore, we hope you take our brochure home as a way of reminding yourself what your future at the University of Southampton could be like.

Happy reading!

From the editors, Enzo (Year Two English), Rachel (Year Three English), and Sofia (BA English 2019 and current MA student)

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Academic Life

ACADEMIC LIFE As English students at Southampton, we have had the chance to discover texts from the distant past up to modern works and have learned how literature connects with fields such as politics, history, film and science.

The interdisciplinary nature of an English degree opens so many doors for the future, providing a variety of transferable skills in researching, writing and conceptual thinking.

We’ve enjoyed studying English because we have been able to make our degree programme as unique as we are. The huge range of module choices means we have been able to build our degrees to suit our individual interests and career choices. There are even options to include creative writing modules for scriptwriting, novels and poetry.

To match the array of module options, we have been assessed in different modes, too: not all assignments are long essays! Many lecturers choose alternative methods for assessment.

So far, we have encountered group presentations, creative pieces such as blogs, takeaway exams and shorter critical commentaries.

From this, we have been able to obtain additional skills to take into our careers, which is really useful.

Your degree doesn’t have to be 100 percent English Literature focused if you want to explore other subjects as well. You have the freedom to study a joint-honours degree which divides your study between English and another subject, such as Philosophy, History or Film. Alternatively, you can take a minor in a different subject, often

a language. Finally, each semester you have the opportunity to take an elective module in a range of subjects as diverse as Anthropology or Arabic if you wish to try something completely new!

Tips from the Editors Make the most of your first-year modules! While working as a Student Ambassador and answering questions at Open Days, I’ve noticed that at times A-Level students are worried about specific modules. For example, some might say that they don’t like poetry while others are nervous about reading Anglo-Saxon texts. What’s important to keep in mind is that University study is not the same as A-Level, and topics that were not your favourite can grow on you as you go into greater depth and your tastes evolve. Use this year to explore and take risks – expanding your knowledge in fields you’ve not studied before can never do any harm!

In my first year, I was convinced that the more modern a text was, the more fun it would be to study. However, having studied medieval writings in the second semester of my first year, I’m now considering writing my dissertation on a fourteenth-century text.

Another common question at Open Days is about how students get assessed. Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to this. For example, when making the transition

from A-level to university I realised that I really enjoyed the freedom which coursework gives you to do your own research, whereas at school I had essentially only done exams. In my most recent assessment for a module covering the depiction of bodies from 1500-1800, we had access to a big database of relatively unknown documents. The appeal of this is that if you take the time to explore then there is a chance that you are writing about something which has not been discussed before and that you are perhaps doing original research. I really like this idea, but for people who would rather be assessed in other ways there are plenty of opportunities available.

For instance, throughout my time at Southampton I’ve been assessed through blogs, short stories, critical commentaries, scripts, presentations and exams. The modes of assessment vary from module to module, but I think the important thing is that the variety continually challenges me rather than letting me drop into a rut of churning out essays. The information about how you will be assessed for each course is published before you pick optional modules, so it gives you some control over how you will be examined in your second and third years.

- Enzo

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Academic Life

TESTIMONIALS Despite it sometimes being tough to navigate two different subjects, I like the fact that I can meet people from both degree courses; that if I ever feel tired with one subject I can focus on the other; and also that I can use the things I’ve learned in one to assist me with the other – the two aspects of my degree crossover much more than I thought they would. It also means whilst I get to study three full years of English, I also get the benefits of doing a year abroad.”

I have very much enjoyed the diversity of study here at the University. Southampton is fantastic at catering for all literary interests, whether that be Beowulf in Old English, Dickens’s nineteenth-century London, or even Margaret Atwood’s modern dystopian fiction.”

Megan Price English and French

Coming to Southampton Uni has really taken my appreciation for creative writing to new levels.

The creative writing modules on my course are incredibly free and engaging, with a lot of great support from the staff running them, and extra-curricular activities like the Open Mic Night make me really feel like I have the opportunities to explore a burgeoning passion of mine in a friendly and welcoming place.”

My favourite module was Women, Writing and Modernity (Year Two) as it has given me access to female writers that often get left off of the male-heavy literature canons.

It also redefines your belief of what feminism is and was, and how equality is compromised for some groups.”

Alishia Markwell English

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Sofia Wellbeloved English

Calum Holgate English

Opportunities

OPPORTUNITIES Now, we also want to show you the range of opportunities open to students beyond the core curriculum.

Let’s begin with ours—this brochure is the result of a paid internship with the English Department where we have worked with staff and designers to really demonstrate what you can achieve alongside your studies. Many internships are available, such as reaching out to secondary schools to encourage and help students to study English Literature at university.

Other projects that we have been involved in include: becoming an Ambassador for English at University Open Days and manning telephones on results day. Alternatively, you could become a University Arts Ambassador promoting arts and culture in Southampton or find industry work experience through the Univeristy of Southampton Internship Scheme.

Something we also think is useful to know, is that all students have the chance to study abroad as part of their course, regardless of whether you study a language or not. Many of our friends have studied abroad in fabulous places, such as Germany, Singapore, France and Hong Kong!

Enzo during study abroad in Italy

Tips from the Editors Additional career-related support is offered by the Careers and Employability Service, who are always on-hand to assist with any issues or queries you may have. I was stuck in a rut and felt I had no real direction, so I made an appointment with one of the team. We discussed job possibilities attuned to my skillset and experience and had a one-toone CV writing workshop to help me really get myself in order in a single meeting. It gave me the confidence to consider different careers that I didn’t know existed, let alone apply for!

Also, I was lucky enough to obtain a job with the University in my first year, in the Student Fundraising Telephone Campaigns. Not only was I able to financially support myself, I also made some great friends whilst obtaining new skills that look great on my CV.

- Rachel 5

Opportunities

Enzo (top)

TESTIMONIALS Studying English and Spanish at Southampton has truly given me the best of both worlds. Due to a wide range of cultural modules alongside the language module, I have actually been able to understand certain aspects of Hispanic society and culture just as deeply as I have for English. Not to mention, my two subjects serve each other well enough that I can transfer my knowledge of literary analysis, for example, into Spanish-speaking discourses and vice-versa with my knowledge of Spanish film and Latin American politics.�

Elizabeth Sorrel English and Spanish

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Clubs and Societies

CLUBS AND SOCIETIES We cannot stress enough how one of the best things about university is that it gives you a chance to pursue your passions beyond the academic setting.

The University of Southampton is home to hundreds of different clubs and societies. Some of these, such as the English or the Creative Writing Society, interact in obvious and useful ways with your English degree, while others offer an escape from day-today academic work. These clubs are supported by SUSU, the Southampton Student’s Union who maintain the gyms, sports halls and sports pitches which are available to societies.

They also provide facilities for Surge Radio (the University’s resident radio station), SUSU TV and both of the University’s homegrown publications, The Edge and Wessex Scene. We highly recommend getting involved in these societies if you are interested in journalism or writing carreers, as they will help you find your voice!

Tips from the Editors I would definitely recommend the English Society as a club to join in first year. It not only hosts a number of fabulous events throughout each academic year, but also provides a useful base for meeting fellow literature enthusiasts from other

modules or disciplines. The Humanities Christmas Ball has always been a seasonal highlight for me, likewise the student-staff quiz and the annual Summer Boat Party, a classy celebration to close the semester in style.

- Sofia I encourage everyone to attempt something completely new to them!

Each academic year I challenged myself to join a different sporting society to try out new things and meet as many people as possible. In first year, I joined the Rowing Club, second year I was in Mixed Lacrosse and in my final year I was boxing at SUABC (Southampton University Amateur Boxing Club).

Being in a society or sport team, you see many students wearing their team kit, it really makes you feel like an integral part of the University and these momentos are also nice souvenirs to bring home with you. I enjoyed my societies all so much and I learned more about myself and my interests. Also, this really helped me keep my mental and physical wellbeing in check whilst balancing university commitments.

Rachel (left) and Enzo (right) I really recommend getting involved in the social side of whatever groups you join. Some of the funniest nights I’ve had have been with MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) society socials but I didn’t really discover this till my second semester of first year - before then I’d mostly just spent time with my flat and course mates. If I were to do it again, I’d definitely get involved straight away, it’s just nice to have more people to bump into and say hello around campus.

- Enzo

- Rachel 7

Clubs and Societies

TESTIMONIALS I feel that people often have preconceived ideas of what an English student is like, so when I tell people I am a member of the boxing society it really surprises them. Yes, I do love coffee and I do read a lot of books. However, the possibilities outside the classroom allow me to celebrate my individuality and debunk the stereotypes attached to English!�

Rachel Boyer English

Becoming Live Editor for The Edge magazine has allowed me to gain valuable experiences, within and beyond my writing. Alongside interviewing some of my favourite artists and reviewing popular gigs, my experience as an editor has widened my understanding of genre and form, and in turn has enabled me to become much more attentive towards details in my own work for my degree. Both my editorial experience and my degree work collaboratively to empower my writing and ultimate confidence to pursue journalism in the future.�

Rachel rock climbing 8

Georgie Holmes English

City Life

CITY LIFE

Southampton itself has lots to offer us students in our free time. What we love about the city is the mix of independent cafes and well-known restaurants, its richness in historical landmarks and museums and, of course, the shopping and entertainment facilities at West Quay. With Southampton Solent University in town, there is a strong student community here.

Outside the main city and closer to the University campuses are other more low-key pubs and clubs, such as the infamous Clowns Wine Bar & Jesters Nightclub, Sobar and the Hobbit Pub – visited by Gandalf actor, Sir Ian McKellen himself!

Public transport is so convenient here, especially as every student is given a free bus pass for first year. There are many buses which have all the important University sites and student accommodation halls en route, so you are never too far away from where you want to be. Alternatively, get a bike— Southampton is very cycle-friendly with cycle paths running right to the front of Avenue Campus, which can help save money and time.

Tips from the Editors When I have had friends from home visit me at university, I have been able to show off Southampton by

Top 10

friendliest city in the UK

(The 50 Friendliest Cities In The UK, Big 7 Travel, 2019)

taking them to Showcase Cinema de Lux and enjoying dinner at an independent family-run Italian restaurant called La Tavernetta.

When we didn’t want to spend too much money, we went to The Plant Pot, a Vegan Cafe on Campus. There really is something for everyone!

- Rachel A hidden gem which might not always be apparent to new students is Stags Karaoke— just how popular this night was really got me surprised as a fresher. By eight o’clock most Thursdays the queue stretches out of Stags (SUSU’s oncampus pub) and around the corner.

So there is always a big, cheerful crowd if you’re brave enough to get on stage for karaoke, which I highly recommend.

- Enzo

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Resources

RESOURCES When reflecting on our experiences at the University of Southampton, we all agreed on the value of unique resources offered to English students here.

One of these is Chawton House, a public library and landmark containing a vast array of rare literature and antique first editions of books from many of the greatest writers of all time, particularly female authors such as Jane Austen, Mary Wollstonecraft and Anna Lætitia Barbauld. Not only is this invaluable site made available to students who wish to access these beautiful books, but the area is also home to the Jane Austen museum—a house once lived in by Austen herself.

Another crucial asset we have been given throughout our studies is the Royal Literary Fund Fellows, who essentially are there to assist students with their academic writing skills and tidying up of grammar where necessary. They are really friendly and approachable and, more importantly, can help boost a 2:1 essay to a First with improved structuring and writing style. All you have to do is make an appointment during their office hours to get one-to-one feedback on your work and this service is free of charge.

Whether or not you study Film modules, for some downtime with friends or to catch up on the latest movies visit Union Films, 10

Southampton’s student-run cinema.

The venue offers arthouse and classic titles to the most recent blockbusters at a fraction of the price of main cinemas.

Particularly for English students, we have found the University’s relationship to the local, independent bookshop October Books an absolute lifesaver!

If you haven’t been able to find some books from the reading list, all texts from the degree programme are stocked there. During the first few weeks of every semester, they hold a book fair at Avenue Campus. October Books is located in Portswood, a short walk away. They sell many more works beyond assigned reading and have a community space where events like art exhibitions and talks with authors are regularly hosted.

Tips from the Editors Some modules offer a trip to Chawton House as part of the course; however, you are able to visit the site yourself without a member of staff. Gather your friends for a day out and study together over a cream tea and a coffee!

- Rachel

Jane Austen’s writing desk

Online Learning

ONLINE LEARNING The COVID-19 Lockdown came into place right in the middle of the process of creating this brochure. Southampton, like every university in the country, had to make adjustments with all students having to spend their third term learning online.

We thought it would be useful to tell you a little about how lockdown and the shift to online learning has affected us. Writing this, we have no idea how long this sort of distance learning will go on, but we can say from our own experience that, if it becomes a feature of university life for some people, then Southampton is putting measures in place to make it as effective as possible.

We have all been attending lectures, taking part in seminars and meeting with our supervisors virtually. One of the many advantages of an English degree is that a great body of the work of studying literature can be done at home with a laptop and a bookshelf, unlike other fields of study which rely on laboratories or expensive equipment.

also did a great job of making sure that we could stay in touch with clubs and societies during the lockdown.

Keeping in touch with friends like this has been brilliant for keeping spirits up.

More broadly, throughout the ups and downs of the last year what we’ve read during our degree has granted

While we all look forward to getting back to the city of Southampton and student life, we are fortunate in that during the lockdown we’ve been able to keep on learning and our degrees haven’t been put on hold.

The University as a whole put on a week of sessions after the 2020 Easter break dedicated to making sure that every student had access to the internet and finding solutions for students under lockdown in different time zones. SUSU

Rachel’s home working set-up

us a useful sense of perspective and a tendency to think globally. Malorie Blackman perhaps put it best when she said that ‘reading is an exercise in empathy’, and it is this empathy which is in such demand when dealing with a pandemic where an individual’s choices can have such important and wide-ranging outcomes.

Find out more: www.southampton.ac.uk / english University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton, SO17 1BJ +44 (0)23 8059 5000 +44 (0)23 8059 3131