Emma

"After spending years volunteering with young people from all backgrounds and five years working in an international development charity on youth programmes, I decided to take the plunge and do a Masters while gaining a recognised qualification in youth work. The MA in Applied Anthropology, Community and Youth Work is one of a kind. It balances academic study alongside three vocational placements which give the opportunity to experience a unique blend of theory and real practice.

Studying this course at Goldsmiths has equipped me to work with all young people, challenge my practice and challenge social inequality. I’ve also met really inspiring speakers and professionals along the way - this programme includes bringing in speakers from across the sector to hear the latest in practice and be at the forefront of community and youth work. Being able to engage in debates and critical discussions with like-minded course students was a great experience as everyone was able to bring their expertise to each lecture. The lectures were inspiring, collaborative and challenging, constantly finding ways to push boundaries, challenge discourses and ultimately develop youth and community work practice.

I’m now working for two youth centres in London. At one I'm working with homeless young people and the other with young people at risk of gang involvement. Each day is different - I can be supporting a young woman into refuge accommodation or young refugees new to London to emergency shelter or helping young people at risk of violence cope with conflict or support them into employment. I love the diversity - no two days are the same!

Goldsmiths is a great university to be a student; there is a diverse range of people from all backgrounds and lots happening on campus all the time. The course has a great reputation and I can honestly say that it definitely meets it!"