Politics and International Relations BA(Hons): What our students say
Student profiles
Don't just take our word for it – here's what some of our current and recent students say about what it's like to study at Kingston.
Name: Ben Walsh
Age: 22
Course: Politics BA(Hons)
Level: Completed 3rd year
Route to University: A-levels
Accommodation: Lives with parents
Ben has completed his final year and is deciding whether to look for a full-time job or do teacher training.
"At college I did A-levels in Politics, English Literature and Geography. I had very little idea of what I wanted to do as a career so I picked these subjects with no research into what they involved. As a result I struggled and didn't enjoy my studies, eventually finishing with two Cs and an E. I remember thinking that I would never be able to cope with a university degree and so deferred my entry to Kingston.
"The University was very supportive and respected this decision. Luckily a year working as a sales assistant in a sport shop was enough to convince me that I wanted to further my education.
"I decided to stop worrying about what career I wanted and just choose a course based on what I enjoy. Politics was an obvious choice for me. I was interested in studying its different aspects – for example, looking at ideologies such as socialism, investigating what the EU is and understanding US foreign policy.
"So I started University with a new enthusiasm and really enjoyed the course. The tutors were excellent. None of the lectures were over an hour long, which is a good thing in terms of concentration. Debating in seminars was very entertaining. But you do also need to be prepared for lots of reading and writing long essays.
"My three years at University were totally different from my time at school and college. I have thrived on the independence and freedom and could not have enjoyed my time more. Having only ever achieved one A previously, my 24 modules at University have all been As and Bs.
"I have now completed the course and surprise, surprise, still do not have any idea of what career I want. I think I would like to be involved in politics eventually, but until then I may become a citizenship teacher. What I have learned is that doing something you enjoy and are interested in will stand you in good stead. The more you put into your time here the more you will get out of it."
