International Relations, Durham University

University: Durham University

Program: International Relations

Year of Study: Year 2

Institution: Program:

1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5

Campus Facilities: Academic Environment:

1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5

Social Life: Career Planning Opportunities:

1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5

Overall Experience:

1 2 3 4 5

Contrast Between Workload hours in University vs High School:

I did less work in university than in high school

Same number of hours

1-3 more hours of work in university

4-6 more hours of work in university

7-9 more hours of work in university

10+ more hours of work in university

What made you choose your institution over others?

The academic reputation of the university.

What did you wish you knew before choosing your specific program?

The city of Durham has a village feel.

What was your best experience at university?

The hockey socials and matches are good fun. They offer opportunities for socialising with other groups across different years. Also, unlike the reputation of some sports societies, all the nights out are a good laugh.

What was your worst university experience?

The food. As most colleges are catered, there is little option but to eat the same food over and over again. I don’t think I will ever feel the same way about potatoes.

What is the hardest part about your program and what were the steps that you took to overcome any difficulties?

The hardest part is learning university-level exam technique. We write very few essays, with feedback and guidance being sporadic and inconsistent.

What was your favourite module/course and why?

Intro to IR as it dealt with key themes and theories within the discipline instead of niche areas. This allowed me greater freedom to choose what I read up on.

What tips and advice would you give to first year students?

Be social within the college since there are few opportunities to make friends from different colleges in first year.