Lottie Coley

Why did you decide to study your BA and MA with us?

After completing my BA at Teesside, I found that my thirst for knowledge and exploration of culture through literature was insatiable; there was still so much to learn. I knew I would be remaining in the extremely capable hands of lecturers who encouraged and inspired each of us to develop our research skills and areas of special interest, enabling us to become specialists among peers in our chosen fields. I had also fallen in love with the Teesside campus and could see it growing into a cultural hub; I had no reason to look elsewhere.

Any highlights from your MA course?

The course allows you the space and opportunity to push yourself out of your comfort zone and the lecturers really strive to support you in fully reaching your potential. It’s genuinely incredible to look back on such a short journey and see just how far you can travel.

There was one concept of literary theory - The Singularity of Literature - which had me utterly baffled when we first reviewed it. We were then given the option of several concepts into which to research; I opted for the one that I initially couldn’t get my head around. It was the best decision – I researched, I applied, and I analysed, until finally I managed to crack it and understood it enough to then develop a lecture of my own. I was pretty proud of that one.

What do you think of campus?

The upgrade of facilities has been tremendous. The library is well stocked and a great place to study, with quieter areas when needed.

Tell us about being a course rep

In the final two years of my degree I acted as a mediator, attending meetings and reporting back on any issues and concerns. Having course reps is a fantastic way of ensuring the course is structured and tailored in the best possible way. The approachable manner in which lecturers and staff contend with concerns throughout the course is incredible, and I've seen first-hand how much is given to improving the standards on a daily, monthly and bi-annual basis.

What skills have you gained at Teesside?

Confidence, a thirst for more knowledge, the excitement of contributing new ideas and arguments, and the skills to put all of that down in writing and to make a difference. I've also improved my poetry writing.

What are you doing now?

After landing a dream job and several subsequent promotions since completing my MA, I’m now the Safeguarding Manager at Durham University’s International Study Centre, supporting international students as they embark on their own academic journey. Cultural understanding and communication are 90% of my job role and the skills that I’ve been able to transfer from my MA have undoubtedly contributed to my continued success and any future career opportunities.

Ambitions for the future?

I’ve found a career in which I can continue to learn every single day; it is rewarding and challenging, and there’s never a dull day. I’m surrounded by students with a passion for academia and dreams of changing the world – it’s inspiring every day. I’ve been lucky enough to find a job that allows me to grow and challenge myself, with people that encourage me and provide opportunities to excel and succeed. My MA gave me everything I needed to find, and land, my dream job. I’m excited to see where else it takes me!