Meet our undergraduate students

Some of our graduates share their experiences of what it's like to study, live and work in Sheffield and what they've gone on to do since graduating.

Image of IR & Politics student crouched in front of the Northern Lights in Sweden

One of the best years of my life

Isaac Silver International Relations and Politics BA

Studying abroad is about new experiences and the unknown; it is supposed to induce a bit of vertigo. The best way down from that ledge, in my opinion, is to close your eyes and step off.

Politics student Joanna in front of the Headquarters of medical tech company B.Braun where she did her placement

Experiencing the entrepreneurial, innovative environment within a company where everyone had such a drive to solve complex problems was fantastic

Joanna Turnbull International Relations and Politics BA

Joanna's work placement at B. Braun allowed her to focus at the crossroads of technology, politics and corporations.

Photo of Politics student William posing above French city

Improving my language skills and career prospects in Paris

William Bruce International Relations and Politics with International Experience BA

The experience was absolutely incredible – it was academically enriching, culturally fascinating, and so much fun.

Politics student Caitlin riding a bike in Copenhagen

Destined to live in Copenhagen

Caitlin Knowles Politics and History BA

Studying abroad has changed my mindset on the future, it helped me realise that the world is too big to settle and has spurred me on to travel the world.

Image of Politics alumni and Sky News Journalist, Olive Enokido-Lineham, in a green suit sat by plants

How international relations led me to become a Sky News reporter

Olive Enokido-Lineham International Relations and Politics BA

"The course deepened my curiosity to learn more about current affairs and what’s going on in the world."

Sociological Studies Student Ambassador Robin Todd

I have learned that university is not about working 24/7. It’s about meeting new people, trying new things and developing as a person

Robin Todd Sociology BA

Robin felt nervous and reserved at the beginning of his university journey. Throughout his undergraduate studies however, Robin grew in confidence and went on to become a trusted Student Ambassador for the Department of Sociological Studies (now School of Sociological Studies, Politics and International Relations), who was passionate about ensuring that Open Day talks became as inclusive as possible for all prospective students who may be nervous about taking the next step to university life.

Politics graduate, Joe Twyman, pictured in front of a YouGov banner.

I knew Sheffield was where I wanted to go

Joe Twyman Politics BA, class of 1998

"Be prepared, be different and be resilient, but more importantly: do it all."

BA Sociology graduate Georgina Culliford

The hands-on research skills I gained meant I could step into my career as a social researcher with plenty of experience behind me already

Georgina Culliford Sociology BA

Georgina instantly felt at home in Sheffield when she visited for an open day. During her time at university, Georgina took up a variety of opportunities and gained valuable skills that have seen her launch a promising career in social research.

Alice Cipolat working from home

The standard of teaching and knowledge of the staff on the course attracted me to Sheffield, as well as the University and city itself

Alice Cipolat Digital Media and Society BA

Alice, now an events and communications co-ordinator, shared her experiences with us while she was a student. She reflected on how she was making the most of her time as a student, and her experience of her fantastic placement at the Walt Disney Company in London.

BA Sociology with Social Policy graduate Emily Lunn

The social policy element of the course was important to me because I wanted to learn about the application of sociological knowledge in practice

Emily Lunn Sociology with Social Policy BA

Emily came to the Department of Sociological Studies (now School of Sociological Studies, Politics and International Relations) as a mature student, after discovering a passion for sociology during her Access to Higher Education course. Now, Emily is using the skills and knowledge she gained throughout her degree as she embarks upon a PhD in York, funded by Yorkshire Cancer Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµ, where she will be carrying out qualitative research into the inequalities in breast screening uptake in the Yorkshire region. 

A smiling Sheffield student holding a sign that says "I'm here to help" at an undergraduate open day

Visit us

Discover what sets Sheffield apart at our undergraduate open days on Saturday 21 June and Saturday 5 July 2025.