Alumni Testimonials

• Maisie Clark, BA Classical Studies, Bristol
• Sophie Johns, BA Classics, Bristol; MSt Greek and Latin, Oxford
• Ivana Kuric, BA Classical Studies, Bristol; MSt Greek and Latin, Oxford
• Evelyn Heis, BA English; MA Comparative Literatures & Cultures, Bristol
• AJ Birt, BA History; MA History, Bristol
• Jamie Jewkes, BA Philosophy & Theology; MA Philosophy, Bristol
• Eleanor Lynch, BA Religion and Theology, Bristol
• Alex Brown, BA History, Bristol
• Jasmine Sayany, Religion and Theology BA, Bristol
• Amy Burnett, MA in History, Bristol
• Joseph Maspo, MA in History, Bristol
• Sanjana Idnani, BA in English, Bristol

 

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Joseph Maspo, MA in History, Bristol

As an international student, I chose to pursue my MA in History at the University of Bristol to broaden my horizons and get an academic perspective I might not find elsewhere. I was initially drawn by their department strength in environmental history and the breadth of the modules available to me, and I was not disappointed! I also appreciated the attention and support of the lecturers. They cared about my success, provided detailed feedback, challenged me to think in new ways, and promoted uniquely thought-provoking discussions in class. The connections I made in my course- both within the department and within my cohort- have continued to benefit me years later. I’ve found that my degree is valued internationally as well. As a young professional, it wasn’t having a master’s degree, but rather having a master’s degree from Bristol that opened the first few doors for me back home in the United States. It has continued to make me stand out as a job candidate.

I currently work in higher education administration, and this course provided me with important tools that started me down my career path, such as critical thinking, empirical research, argumentative writing. I routinely draw on the engagement and presentation methods I learned in my public history courses, use a historical lens to critically assess and mediate longstanding disputes between stakeholders, and apply the research skills from my dissertation as I conduct benchmarks with other institutions and create program proposals. These skills not only helped me secure my current position, but also helped me attain consistent promotions within my department. My time in Bristol, in no small way, built the professional foundation I stand on today.

Pursuing my MA in History at Bristol was the most positively consequential decision of my life. It helped me grow as a person, exposed me to new points of view, and continues to open doors for me. I could not be more satisfied with my time there!