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James

"The transferable skills from my History degree have been immeasurable... I'd almost argue that this degree has better prepared me for a career in law than a law degree could!"

Main details

Department History
Programme BA (Hons) History & History of Ideas

"More than anything else, History at Goldsmiths teaches you to think differently and independently. When I started at Goldsmiths I wouldn't have dreamed of being a barrister - but it is thanks to this academic ethos that I was able to come to that decision. I've been taught how to learn for myself - my own research, my own opinions - and this has given me huge self-confidence in my own abilities.

The transferable skills from my History degree have been immeasurable: how to structure a coherent argument - both in writing and in public speaking. How to consume huge amounts of information and glean the bits important to your research area. How to intellectually handle a broad spectrum of theories and ideologies. I'd almost argue that this degree has better prepared me for a career in law than a law degree could!

My ambition is to be a barrister mainly in criminal, immigration and employment law. I also aspire to be the best at it, and the most socially progressive - I certainly don't plan on being a judge and earning millions!

My advice to current history students thinking about their future would be to keep your options as broad as you can. You learn so many skills from a History degree, and it is such an achievement to graduate, that you shouldn't understate yourself - to employers and to yourself.

My time being involved in the Goldsmiths Students' Union was simply life-changing. If you're not involved in some way with the Union then you're not getting the full experience at university. During my time at the Union, I learnt public speaking, went on prison visits, visited Palestine, attended meetings with the local MP, debated and negotiated with university management, and learnt how to box! There is so much opportunity there - frankly I wouldn't be where I am without the union so I owe them big time."

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