"Keep your options open in the first year, but have an eye on a specific area that you want to study and read into that."
Michael O'Connell
Age: 20
Course: Theology (third year)
“Initially, it was the campus and halls that attracted me to the University. I also liked the fact that the course was specifically Christian theology based, although the option is there to pursue world religion and biblical studies. There was a good philosophy option, too.
We’ve looked at theories of religious experience and attempts to explain it, and sceptical views of it. I particularly enjoyed a module called Christian Thought in the Modern World because the lectures were really interesting to listen to – the lecturer took a particular stance on things, rather than just relaying the debate.
The staff here are great and there are opportunities to get to know them out of class. There are only 30 to 40 students a year, which means that the lectures and seminars are small enough that you can engage with what’s being said.
There are lots of opportunities to get involved in clubs and societies on campus. I joined the indie music society, High Society, which is a good opportunity to meet people who are interested in the same kind of things, and the Gaelic Football Team. We travel around the country playing matches and it’s really good fun.
After I graduate, I’m going to stay in Nottingham and do a masters degree in philosophical theology, then either another year in study or a PGCE, and eventually become a teacher. One of the things you take away from this course is confidence, as a result of participating in seminars and lectures. Even if you’re not sure what to say at first, you’ll become more confident in talking about what you’re reading and studying. It also helps you develop your writing style.”