Joanne Karbritz

Why did you choose the University of Westminster?

I have lived in London my entire life, and I have a deep passion for the history, people, and culture that make it the greatest capital city in the world. In deciding on which university to apply to, the University of Westminster was at the top, particularly as I would be able to continue to indulge my love of history and art through the many world-leading museums and art galleries that London has, together with cultural and historic places of interest such as Buckingham Palace, St. Pauls Cathedral, The City of London, Westminster Abbey, and many, many more.

How has your experience been studying in London?

London is the beating heart of England, and with the many museums, galleries, and learning facilities, such as the British Library, within a short walking distance of the University of Westminster, studying has been a pleasure and an enjoyable experience. Moreover, the need to relax and have a break is equally important in a study/work/life balance, and London amply provides for all your entertainment needs, whether it is the world-class theatres, incredible clubs, bars, and restaurants, or just relaxing in one of the numerous parks that provide tranquillity and peace in a hectic schedule. Additionally, depending on your course, most museums have their own learning facilities and archives, which provide a wonderful addition to the available learning resources. For example, the British Library, the Imperial War Museum, and of course, for History enthusiasts, the National Archives at Kew.

What have you particularly enjoyed about your course?

The History BA course has been interesting, fascinating, stimulating, and a wonderful learning experience. I have a deep love of modern history from the nineteenth century onwards, and this degree has opened my eyes to and enabled me to understand so much more about world and British history. This has included social, cultural and political history, encapsulating a broad understanding of the foundations of modern history and the world we live in today. Many new aspects of history are explored, particularly those related to London itself, which is a delight for both long-time residents and new visitors. I have had the amazing opportunity to learn and gain a deeper understanding of how and why certain events occurred and their impact on the world we now live in and the broader population. I have also been able to dive more deeply into the areas that I have a deep passion for, such as nineteenth and twentieth-century politics, the First and Second World Wars, and the Cold War. There are also topics covering social and cultural history, such as the Swinging Sixties and the Titanic Disaster.

How have you found academic support as part of your studies?

The academic support has been first-rate and, together with incredibly gifted and knowledgeable lecturers, the learning experience is far less stressful than you might think. It is important to work hard and follow the course guidelines, but the lecturers and additional academic support are always available. This includes pastoral care from your personal tutor as well as advice and help from the academic tutor. Library staff, both in-person and online, are available for extra assistance with essay writing, creating effective learning tools, and understanding the help that is available, covering all aspects of the course and university experience. It is vital to reach out if there are any problems or worries surrounding both the course and your university experience, and all the tutors are open, accessible, friendly, and more than willing to help, guide, and assist.

Are there any stand-out facilities associated with your course?

History is as much about learning from a book or lecture slide as it is from actually experiencing and connecting with people, places, and cultures. Within this course, there is the opportunity to visit museums, archives, and places of interest in London, enabling you to create a physical and emotional connection to the past. There are also guest lecturers who are specialists in a particular era of history, providing in-depth analysis. Additionally, there is also the possibility of work placements and internships that are designed to enhance both your learning experience and workplace skills for future career development.

Tell us about your experience of using the University Careers and Employability Service

Yes, I have used the University Careers and Employability Service. Their Westminster Award offers levels of achievement that add real value to your CV, helping you develop new skills and strengthen existing ones to support long-term employability and career progression. There are also opportunities for work placements and internships in the UK and internationally.

Tell us about any activities that you have undertaken outside of your course

I have completed two work placements with both the RAF Museum and the Migration Museum, which have been fascinating, interesting, and amazing experiences. These placements provided me with the opportunity to meet new people and form a network of contacts. I have also explored interests outside of my comfort zone, which led to me winning an art competition as part of global Earth Day. Myself and the other winners from the University of Westminster had our artwork put on public display, which was an exciting and gratifying experience.

What would your advice be to someone considering studying at Westminster?

It is important to not just enjoy the course but also to consider the University building, where it is situated, and the facilities that are available. The course I chose was exactly the field of study I was interested in, and I also loved the location, the campus' incredible architecture, and its facilities.

What's the best aspect of being a University of Westminster student?

The best aspect of being a student at the University of Westminster is definitely the people. This includes your fellow students, the lecturers, and all the support staff. They are approachable, friendly, and helpful, and they only wish to make your university experience as rewarding and pleasant as possible. Every type of assistance, guidance and help is available, whether emotionally, physically, or academically; you just need to reach out and ask.

What was the most surprising or unexpected aspect of your Westminster experience?

I was used to a formal, strict, and disciplined academic experience at school. University is an exciting, stimulating, and rewarding place to be. It is important to find the right balance between study and an active social life, and the University of Westminster provides for both areas. The lecturers are knowledgeable and passionate about their subjects, and this is conveyed in both the lectures, seminars and the guidance they are always willing to give.

Your Thoughts

I was incredibly apprehensive about life at university, both academically and socially. I was worried that it would be difficult to fit in, make new friends, and cope academically. However, the University of Westminster provides help and support in all these areas. Make use of the clubs, societies, and campus facilities; these will provide comfort, support, and friends. All students' needs are catered for on all levels, whether that is financially, educationally, emotionally, or physically.