Meet alumna Jess, History and Politics BA

We caught up with Jess, who graduated in 2022 with a History and Politics BA. Like many of us, she didn't have a career path set in stone at the start of her degree. Instead, she chose subjects she loved and had an open mind when trying the different placement opportunities we offer here at Nottingham.

Studying two subjects taught her how to look at issues from different angles. This, combined with a love of politics and varied work experience, has led her to a role at AllChild where she now works as a public affairs officer – which sounds like the perfect role for her!

Why did you choose to study a joint honours degree?

“I loved studying history and politics at A level and wanted to continue both at university. What I really liked about Nottingham was the range of topics covered in both these subject areas.

Exploring a topic through two lenses developed my analytical and evaluative judgement. It was something I took with me throughout my degree, prompting me to always consider an event or topic from different angles.”

We hear you volunteered in a school, what was that like?

“I took part in the 'History in Schools' project during my first year. This gave me the opportunity to go into a primary school to teach a class all about the Stone Ages. It was an insightful and enjoyable opportunity. 

A small group of us would take it in turns to plan the lesson content, design specific resources and then deliver lessons in the classroom. Over the term we built relationships with the pupils and were able to see them grow in confidence, as well as gaining first-hand teaching experience.” 

Tell us about your placement at The Rights Lab

“The placement module was one of my favourite parts of the course and something I would definitely recommend if you get the opportunity! 

I was a junior research assistant in modern anti-slavery support at The Rights Lab. I spent my time: looking at the impact of immigration status upon the national referral mechanism, constructing freedom of information requests to gain further data, and formulating a literature review for future published articles. 

Being able to apply my skills and knowledge from my time at university to help with real-life data work felt very impactful and I was able to explore what working in research was like.” 

How did your degree help you identify a career path?

“My degree allowed me to explore different career options, such as research and teaching. I was able to build specific skills in those areas, as well as broader soft skills that I have been able to apply in other career fields. 

Throughout my time at university, I was able to develop what I really cared about and by trying out different opportunities, I knew I wanted to work in the charity and non-profit sector or education so that I could help people. 

My degree showed me what impact I could have in these fields and the job I work in now combines my love of politics with my desire to help others.”