End Of The Road Rest In Peace We May Remember You But Not Forgotten

My name is Wyan and this is what I’ve learned while working in the school of English and drama:

  • Attaching binders into books and putting books together 
  • Using computers to change and design layouts and update MS Excel spreadsheets 
  • Blogging & posting on social media via Later using hashtags to maximise engagement 
  • Creating news digest posts in WordPress CMS  
  • Website Management
  • Adding, updating, and editing content in TerminalFour CMS  
  • Informing social strategy through advanced knowledge of platforms.  
  • Identifying issues through diagnostics and troubleshooting 
  • Using screen Management CMS Xibo   

Graduate Clera Rodrigues on Joining Queen Mary via Clearing, Becoming a Journalist and Getting a First Class Degree

We caught up with recent 2022 BA English and Drama graduate Clera to talk about her experience of studying at Queen Mary…

Tell us about your time at QMUL. What have been your highlights?

I’ve had a great time at Queen Mary. My biggest highlight was hosting a stall at the two Welcome Fairs on behalf of Diaspora Speaks magazine and getting to meet hundreds of people!

Tell us about your journey to Queen Mary coming via clearing?

I initially auditioned for Musical Theatre courses at “drama schools” during my gap year following my A Levels, but then had a change of heart and decided I wanted a more academic, general collegiate experience. I discovered the English and Drama course around the June ’19 Open Day, which I attended. I was intrigued by what I learnt and fell in love with the campus, clubs, and the buzzing energy. I contacted Shane Boyle (the academic hosting the Drama info session), made my case in a lengthy email, and was put in touch with relevant staff to begin an application through clearing. I received my acceptance decision reached in early July. And the rest is history.

How has your course at Queen Mary helped you to progress into the world outside? What’s next?

My course allowed me to hone my research and writing skills alongside developing numerous others such as teamwork, presentation, performance, and creativity. These skills are highly transferable and in demand. Up next for me is a Master of Journalism at the University of Southern California in June ’23!

Aside from course content what have been your favourite elements of the experience of studying here as a whole?

Student media outlets were certainly my favourite part of the experience. I loved writing, editing, and just being able to be published online and in print, alongside socialising with other like-minded students.

Tell us about your life outside Queen Mary including any projects, ambitions or jobs you’ve had.

Honestly, QMUL has so many opportunities that almost all my non-academic activities were QMUL-related. Beyond Queen Mary, I learnt French as a second language, undertook a pressed flower project in my art journal, and travelled for 2 months in summer 2021. I am currently building my personal brand as a professional journalist.

What could be improved to enhance future students’ experience at Queen Mary?

All classes, including lectures, must be held in-person on campus, utilising the numerous lecture halls and seminar rooms for QMUL to return to the standard student experience first of all. To enhance the standard experience, I would have loved the opportunity to travel abroad as I could not on my own.

Student of the month: Maria Messias Mendes – BA English with Creative Writing

I’m a storyteller and my time is dedicated to do justice to the stories I tell.

Tell us about your time at QMUL. What have been your highlights?

My time at QM has been truly special. I‘ve had the chance to learn so much about literature but also the craft of writing.

How has your course at Queen Mary helped you to progress into the world outside? What’s next?

My course has given me the tools to pursue my passions and develop further even after I have left university.

Aside from course content what have been your favourite elements of the experience of studying here as a whole?

I have found theatre to be really complimenting to my studies and many of my fondest memories of the last few years have been in rehearsal rooms.

Tell us about your life outside Queen Mary including any projects, ambitions or jobs you’ve had.

I love painting, dancing and singing so I try to find time to do that.

What could be improved to enhance future students’ experience at Queen Mary?

I think being open to change is key for a more positive future. This does not mean just adapting but critically thinking about what change is positive and useful and which one might be damaging.

Find out more about our BA English with Creative Writing

Student of the month: Eve Bolton – BA English

A scouser in London, with impeccable music taste and fashion sense.

Tell us about your time at QMUL. What have been your highlights?

Presenting and creating social media content for QM’s radio station, Quest. Making lots of lovely friends.

How has your course at Queen Mary helped you to progress into the world outside? What’s next?

I hope to have a career in broadcast journalism, particularly radio.

Aside from course content what have been your favourite elements of the experience of studying here as a whole?

My friends.

Tell us about your life outside Queen Mary including any projects, ambitions or jobs you’ve had.

I work in the Wetherspoons on Mile End Road and I have an internship with the BBC.

What could be improved to enhance future students’ experience at Queen Mary?

Improved information on what we should be reading over the summer for the next semester.

Find out more about our BA English

Student of the month: Demi Whitnell – BA English

Always got her head in a book, a pen in her hand and her eye behind a camera.

Tell us about your time at QMUL. What have been your highlights?

My hightlights of QMUL has certainly been running CUB magazine on campus as editor-in-chief. I have learnt so many amazing skills through my position as well as having so many amazing opportunities, meeting the brilliant writers behind CUB and the students I would have have come across in my own degree. I found a little family in CUB and it will be so upsetting yo say goodbye in May.

How has your course at Queen Mary helped you to progress into the world outside? What’s next?

My course reinforced my love of writing, I was not an avid poet until second year and now I am published on Amazon as well as online publications. I also found my love of article writing through CUB which led me to my two summer internships with the Daily Telegraph Newspaper. My course showed me how diverse literature can be and I know how silly that sounds but A-levels and GCSE only gives you a small scope of literature and after university I know I will continue to explore the different pathways within literature and continue my studies.

Aside from course content what have been your favourite elements of the experience of studying here as a whole?

I cannot give CUB anymore of a shout out but without joining it in my second year as a writer, I would not be this confident or have this many amazing friends around me. I also would not have run for VP Welfare in the 2020 elections or be able to be this confident at public speaking, it gave me skills I could never have learnt without it. I also discovered how diverse peoples values and viewed can be, I met people from so many amazing backgrounds and faiths that it opened my eyes to new experiences and beliefs of my own!

Tell us about your life outside Queen Mary including any projects, ambitions or jobs you’ve had.

I’ve had several part time jobs throughout university such as bar work or retail. Bar work gave me a boost of confidence which allowed me to stand up for myself in difficult situations and to respect myself ad a woman in a male oriented environment.

What could be improved to enhance future students’ experience at Queen Mary?

Bridging the gap between SU and the students, making a less corporate relationship and more student led.

To give more opportunities to students who (like myself) travel to campus daily meaning we miss out on nights out or parties etc.

Find out more about our BA English

Student of the month: Yue Wang – PhD in English

I am a PhD student and poet.

Tell us about your time at QMUL. What have been your highlights?

It’s fantastic! I love the people, the natural beauty and the adademic events in QMUL. I am so excited to learn from many excellent scholars, which makes me feel so good.

How has your course at Queen Mary helped you to progress into the world outside? What’s next?

I am so grateful to my supervisor Matthew Ingleby who invited me to study here and brought to meet many excellent scholars in 19th century studies seminar held by IES.

I am so lucky to listen to Mark Currie’s lectures in person, whose book I have read before in China. I am so grateful to Professor Scott McCracken and Professor Julia Boffey, whose classes inspire me a lot.

Thanks also to Howard and Hari in the research teamwho helped me a lot during my study. Because of the excellect scholars in English department, my mind was open and my academic net was enlarged. Hopefully I can contribute my academic studies in future and I am willing to be a good bridge between UK and China.

Aside from course content what have been your favourite elements of the experience of studying here as a whole?

I think the academic atmosphere attracts me deeply and the independent thinking spirit and the friendly classmates all make me feel so encouraging and enjoyable.

Tell us about your life outside Queen Mary including any projects, ambitions or jobs you’ve had.

Usually, I take part in some lectures held by Senate House or KCL. And also I join some poetry recital events or watch a drama performance or visit a cultural site. I hope I can travel all the literary sites related my study project in the next 6 months.

What could be improved to enhance future students’ experience at Queen Mary?

Hopefully, there will be more PhD communities, which can encourage exchange and build more social relationships.

Find out more about our English PhD

Student of the month: Abdur-Raheem Modan – BA English Literature and Linguistics (Hons)

I am an avid bibliophile and writer.

Tell us about your time at QMUL. What have been your highlights?

My first year has been very exciting and exhilarating. I’ve greatly enjoyed my course and learning material(s). I’ve also had a wonderful time exploring the myriad opportunities/events student life has to offer.

How has your course at Queen Mary helped you to progress into the world outside? What’s next?

I intend to continue my course to completion. It’s helped me to further explore areas that have long interested me as well as potential careers/roles.

Aside from course content what have been your favourite elements of the experience of studying here as a whole?

I have enjoyed many of the extracurricular activities and events.

Tell us about your life outside Queen Mary including any projects, ambitions or jobs you’ve had.

I am a writer and have self-published before. I continue to write, as well as working within my local community as a Young Advisor.

What could be improved to enhance future students’ experience at Queen Mary?

Perhaps more contact with tutors.

Find out more about BA English Literature and Linguistics

Student of the month: Kerry Hunt – BA Drama (Hons)

Always willing to participate

Tell us about your time at QMUL. What have been your highlights?

Study Abroad programme, QMTC, working for the SU and student ambassadoring

How has your course at Queen Mary helped you to progress into the world outside? What’s next?

Grown my confidence, met new people, taken part in programmes which I otherwise wouldn’t have

Aside from course content what have been your favourite elements of the experience of studying here as a whole? (societies/friends/community/values)

Meeting the most amazing international friendship group

Tell us about your life outside Queen Mary including any projects, ambitions or jobs you’ve had.

Producer at Stage 3 Theatre Company, working for the SU and a bar in Aldgate, currently looking for full-time employment

What could be improved to enhance future students’ experience at Queen Mary?

Livelihoods could have included some speakers who didn’t just tell us that we would be unemployed and working for free in the future!

Student of the month: Nicole Brownfield – BA (Hons) English (Alumna)

I am an ambitious, positive and proactive individual constantly on the move, seeking out my next challenge.

Tell us about your time at QMUL. What have been your highlights?

Becoming Editor in Chief of CUB Magazine, meeting new people that I would never have encountered had it not been for university and broadening my mind by studying modules that have changed my outlook on life completely such as all of the postcolonial based modules. Also completing my dissertation and seeing how my initial idea blossomed and having it published as an official document to be circulated in academic circles.

How has your course at Queen Mary helped you to progress into the world outside? What’s next?

It has given me a first class degree which will make me stand out to employers. I am actively looking to pursue a job in journalism or editorial industries.

Aside from course content what have been your favourite elements of the experience of studying here as a whole? (societies/friends/community/values)

The diverse and inclusive community at QM which welcomes everyone and also caters/puts on events for everyone. Also being affiliated with and working closely with QMSU as Editor in Chief of CUB.

Tell us about your life outside Queen Mary including any projects, ambitions or jobs you’ve had.

I had an internship writing for the UK branch of an American magazine called SOCIETY19 last summer writing mainly for the sex and relationships section. I have just started a two month placement as an Editorial Administrator for an educational company called SAM Labs. My goal is to find a permanent job doing the editorial work I love.

What could be improved to enhance future students’ experience at Queen Mary?

To really advertise the social side of the university and also the support side, especially for mental health.

Student of the month: Rebecca Barton – BA (Hons) Drama

Meet our Student of the Month! Rebecca tells us about her time at SED so far

Irish lady moves to London and now, does not sound so Irish anymore.

Tell us about your time at QMUL. What have been your highlights?

By far, my time at QM has been made incredible by the people. I know that I have met people here who will be my friends for the rest of my life. And that’s something you always hear will happen at university and hope it’s true! I’m very glad it became true for me. And it’s not just the people themselves, it’s the way they inspire me as well. The art that is being made here, particularly in the sense of theatre, is something I have never been exposed to before.

How has your course at Queen Mary helped you to progress into the world outside? What’s next?

My course has helped me in a lot of ways. Before coming here, I definitely saw myself as a strict theatre maker but I know now that’s not the case! Performance art is a whole new kind of theatre in itself that I have been exposed to through the Drama degree at Queen Mary and a kind of theatre that I find so compelling and thought provoking!

Aside from course content what have been your favourite elements of the experience of studying here as a whole? (societies/friends/community/values)

Definitely the Queen Mary Theatre Company. QMTC has been the highlight of my whole first year. I’ve been involved in it since the first festival in September and basically haven’t slowed down since then! The theatre being made in QMTC and the standard of student written work being produced there is just astounding. And the welcomeness and friendships I have made inside of QMTC are going to stick with me for life.

Tell us about your life outside Queen Mary including any projects, ambitions or jobs you’ve had.

Well, I’ve been involved in a bit of theatre outside QM. I performed in ACT 2, which is the new title for the London Student Drama Festival. That was incredible, because I got to do some great work with theatre people outside of QM. Expand my horizons, shall we say. I also worked with a fantastic company called SHITE Productions, which was making a play in a day. And I am working as FOH staff for Jeff Wayne’s The War of the Worlds The Immersive Theatre Experience, also getting to be a standby for some of the acting roles. That opportunity has been an incredible one for me. There are so many opportunities for experiences in theatre outside QM – you just have go look!

What could be improved to enhance future students’ experience at Queen Mary?

I think less of a segregation between arts and sciences.

Student of the month: Aishah Ahmed Nekiwala – BA (Hons) English

We caught up with Aishah to discuss her time at Queen Mary studying English. And here’s what she thought…

I will always stay strong even when I am on the verge of giving up. I live by what Shakespeare once said: ‘The worlds mine oyster, which I with sword will open.’.

Tell us about your time at QMUL. What have been your highlights?

QMUL has been one rollercoaster ride.. and I literally mean a ROLLERCOASTER but definitely with more ups than downs! Despite extenuating circumstances, there were so many systems in place at the university which were so supportive and helpful. The English course at QMUL is so versatile. Whenever people ask me what I study and I respond with ‘English’ they all think its books and poetry. But the course at QM has taught me much more than this. I have learnt about Renaissance Literature and therefore the history of Seventeenth and Eighteenth century, I have studied some of the major philosophers such as Plato, Aristotle and Marx and I have even been given the opportunity to write my own short story receiving feedback from a professional author. Thus, the course expands beyond the field of literature into many other disciplines within the humanities and even beyond. The highlights of my degree has definitely got to be the creative projects I have carried out.

From visiting the Globe Theatre in Year one where we were given a tour from some of the greatest actors to organising my own field trip in Year two across London and thereafter producing my own walking journal. I was also given the chance to visit the famous home of Samuel Coleridge where I learnt so much about the challenges professional writers have faced in the past and finally, I was given the opportunity to study entire modules on renowned individuals such as Virginia Woolf and Michel Foucault. I cannot forget to mention, one of the biggest highlights which was conducting and writing my own research project (dissertation) where we had the opportunity to write 10,000 words on something within the field of English which we felt passionate about. There are so many positive memories which I will take away from my time at QM each and every one which would not have been possible without the support of the amazing seminar leaders, lecturers and the staff in the School of English and Drama.

How has your course at Queen Mary helped you to progress into the world outside? What’s next?

Studying BA English at QM has enabled me to develop several skills such as communication skills from participating in discussions and working in group projects, understanding concepts and theories by studying modules such as Reading Theory and Interpretation, Architexts, Critical Aesthetics and Ancient Myth Modern Theory and independent working when writing assignments and producing my final research project. These skills I learnt I have been able to transfer to the outside world such as during my interview at Buckingham Palace and universities such as Kings College London both which I was successful at. I will now hopefully be studying for a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (English) at Kings College London in September 2019. Although, I will truly miss my time at QM I will definitely remain a part of its alumni.

Aside from course content what have been your favourite elements of the experience of studying here as a whole? (societies/friends/community/values)

One of the best things about QM was that students always had the opportunity to have their say and the university was so responsive to these suggestions.

Throughout the three years I have seen so many changes all because the university would always respond to the suggestions students would give. From having a library which extended its hours to 24/7 and offered laptop loans to students to the installation of equipment like microwaves across campus. The university was always willing to listen and implement student feedback actively. I also enjoyed the several organisations that the university opened its doors to throughout the years from having PWC in the Library Square to organisations such as Teach First, we were always given the opportunity to mix with leading employers and organisations.

I still remember when Bill Gates was coming to Campus and the tickets sold out in less than 5 minutes. It was absolutely crazy and the environment at campus was bizarre! Last but not the least, another thing which is so great about QM is that the university is so diverse. I have made such amazing and sincere friends during my time at the university which I will definitely be keeping in touch with. The university also celebrated so many events and even raised money for so many charities and organisations. I have actively been part of the ISOC events which have welcomed so many scholars and held so many events that have given me a break during the assignment deadlines. At QM we commemorated the lives which were lost during the Christchurch Shootings and also raised money for Community Sport by running for fun. QMUL has always been so supportive and open to all faiths and communities.

Tell us about your life outside Queen Mary including any projects, ambitions or jobs you’ve had.

Outside of QM I have been busy trying to set up my own organisation to help those experiencing mental health issues. Again, QM has been helpful in that they have offered grants to help oversee students business proposals and help them set these up. During my spare time I have set up my own poetry collection whilst also setting aside some time to take part in charity projects and volunteering such as for my local community centre.

What could be improved to enhance future students’ experience at Queen Mary?

Wholeheartedly and honestly, I cannot think of any major improvements the university needs to make to enhance students experience. Perhaps more one to one support with personal advisors would be useful to see how students are getting along throughout the year and if further support is needed. Furthermore, one thing I would definitely like to see in the future is the university offering a greater range of postgraduate programmes so that students like myself can return to the university to complete their further studies!

Student of the month: Şenay Camgöz – MA Live Art

Şenay Camgöz (MA Live Art) tells us about her work and highlights at QMUL…

www.senaycamgoz.co.uk

I am an artist and filmmaker developing my creative practice.

Tell us about your time at QMUL. What have been your highlights?

The highlight was a screening of my short film, ‘Introducing HALA’ at the Victoria and Albert Museum’s Friday Late event in April 2019.

How has your course at Queen Mary helped you to progress into the world outside? What’s next?

I am half way through my MA in Live Art and have already had the chance to share my work with a wider public. The practical support I have received at Queen Mary University has helped me to promote my work on social media networks. Through QMUL I had the chance to screen my work at a major national museum which has given me the confidence to seek opportunities to share my work more widely.

Aside from course content what have been your favourite elements of the experience of studying here as a whole? (societies/friends/community/values)

Practical workshops have been very useful, in particular, the DIY Life Skills workshop on using Photoshop.

Tell us about your life outside Queen Mary including any projects, ambitions or jobs you’ve had.

The essay writing I have been doing as part of my MA has inspired me to write more and I am currently taking part in a collaborative writing project with other arts and humanities students.

What could be improved to enhance future students’ experience at Queen Mary?

More practical workshops on how to approach institutions with a view to sharing work and advice on writing applications for residencies.

Student of the month: Hannah Mohamed – BA (Hons) English

That person who wears obnoxiously bright coloured clothing in the winter time

Tell us about your time at QMUL. What have been your highlights?

The biggest highlight of my time at QMUL (so far) is between meeting two of my closest friends randomly in the library one day in first year and bonding over Disney music or the time after the Black Girl Book Club anthology launch where my friends and I stayed behind after everyone had left just belting Beyonce songs.

How has your course at Queen Mary helped you to progress into the world outside? What’s next?

One thing about my course which has helped me progress into the outside world is how proactive the staff are in helping you find experience and opportunities to take part in during our free time and breaks from uni.

Aside from course content what have been your favourite elements of the experience of studying here as a whole?

Easily friends.

Tell us about your life outside Queen Mary including any projects, ambitions or jobs you’ve had.

Outside Queen Mary, I am an archery instructor at children’s summer camps and spend a lot of time teaching myself how to code.

What could be improved to enhance future students’ experience at Queen Mary?

Solely course related but exploring literature through other media e.g. film, theatre, audio etc

Student of the month: Rai Kamana – BA (Hons) English with Creative Writing

BA English with Creative Writing student Rai Kamana describes herself as…

‘a ray of sunshine

Tell us about your time at QMUL. What have been your highlights?

There has been so many highlights since I joined QMUL. Its been engaging socially with meeting new people from different backgrounds to me – learning about all the array of cultures has really opened my mind up. Joining the Women’s Wellbeing society was fun. I met some lovely girls and we were able to openly have conversations about issues women deal with universally. I really enjoyed the calligraphy session held during World Mental Health week – I learnt something new and it was very therapeutic and much needed. Academically, I especially enjoyed writing my own poetry in my creative writing course.

How has your course at Queen Mary helped you to progress into the world outside? What’s next?

My creative writing course has been so helpful for me in terms of writing advice given by my seminar leader, such as how to pursue a career in this field and developing a writing portfolio. I feel with the numerous personal works we have handed in and the advice from my peers, I am ready to start publishing my work, whether that is a article for a platform like Buzzfeed or poetry for the QMUL newsletter.

Aside from course content what have been your favourite elements of the experience of studying here as a whole? (societies/friends/community/values)

Meeting so many unique, diverse individuals from all over the world. Making life-long memories with new friends in the heart of London. Meeting those certain people who I know I will be life-long friends with. The importance of friendship, respect and community engrained as the core values of QMUL is inspiring and encouraging for all students’ growth.

Tell us about your life outside Queen Mary including any projects, ambitions or jobs you’ve had.

My main ambition is to publish a poetry book in the near future. I have a lifestyle blog that encourages people to be mindful through holistic self-care advice. I want to continue developing my blog and share my personal work and thoughts of things I am a passionate advocate of and I feel the world needs to hear of like veganism and spirituality.

What could be improved to enhance future students’ experience at Queen Mary?

I believe eco-friendly initiatives such as growing more plants/trees around the campus will benefit the QMUL students as it cleans the air, lowers pollutant levels and provides a pleasant aesthetic. A student-led interactive QMUL garden growing organic fresh produce like herbs cultivates the health benefits of organic farming for QMUL students.

Student of the month: Louise Fligman – BA (Hons) English

This month we meet English student Louise Fligman. Here’s her story…

I’m a total bookworm who’s friendly, organised, and loves compelling TV shows

Tell us about your time at QMUL. What have been your highlights?

The variety of modules on offer on my course is fantastic. If Shakespeare is your passion, you can study it. If you love medieval texts (like I do), you can study them. Or, if you prefer more contemporary novels, you can study them. There is something at Queen Mary for everyone. I have loved being able to get involved in the student media outlets, CUB Magazine and The Print. Not only have these allowed me to develop transferable skills for my time after uni, but they have put me in touch with some wonderful people. There is such a friendly and communal feel amongst the team members of both publications, and I will really miss being a part of these teams. Another highlight at QM for me was the social badminton sessions I attended in my second and third years. They were brilliant because I was able to pursue a sport I loved, have some great matches, and meet some lovely people who I hope to stay in contact with beyond my time at QM.

How has your course at Queen Mary helped you to progress into the world outside? What’s next?

I have studied a variety of literature, which has broadened my reading tastes and that leaves the field very open in terms of publishing jobs that I can (and would like to) apply for. Some publishing jobs are for specific genres of novels, and I feel that I am in a good position to apply for them because of my course. My course has improved my confidence in suggesting ideas in seminars, which were “safe spaces” in which no idea or perspective was wrong, and no question was irrelevant or deemed stupid. In addition, my course has enhanced my public speaking skills as I had to articulate my thoughts in a clear manner, and some assignments were presentations or leading seminars.

Aside from course content what have been your favourite elements of the experience of studying here as a whole?

Getting involved with the student media outlets CUB Magazine and The Print have been thoroughly enjoyable. They were run by some fantastic editors who were very friendly, and were always open to suggestions and new ideas for articles. There was a lovely communal feel amongst the team members of these publications, and I really felt like I was part of a little family. The social sessions of badminton were such fun! I had some really competitive matches with some great people who I hope to stay in contact with beyond my time at QM.

Tell us about your life outside Queen Mary including any projects you work on, ambitions you have or jobs.

In the summer between my second and third years, I obtained a publishing internship, which has equipped me with invaluable experience with which to apply for publishing jobs. I was given good grounding in the end-to-end publishing process and some office admin experience, which is always useful to put on your CV.

What could be improved to enhance future students’ experience at Queen Mary?

Changing the timetable in such a way that would make 1 day per week available for people to pursue other interests, such as sports and society activities. Some of these events took place when students had classes, meaning they could not take part in a sports club or society activity.