Three things to look forward to studying Social and Political Sciences at York

Hi! I’m Teddy. I’m going into my third year of studying BA Social and Political Sciences (SPS) at the University of York. Here are three things to look forward to when coming to study at York!

1. The course itself

I know this one seems obvious, but when I first started studying SPS, I truly had no idea how unique and flexible the course was. You’ll be studying from three different disciplines (Politics, Sociology, and Social Policy). As you progress through your degree, you’ll have the opportunity to tailor your modules to best suit your passions.

As someone who is, at times, a little unmotivated (see: lazy), being able to read and write about subjects I actually care about has made me so much more willing to get up and do my degree. There is no better feeling than waking up for your 9am lecture and realising that you are genuinely excited to learn about whatever it is you’ve chosen to study this semester.

But don’t go planning your entire degree just yet! In my experience, there are study areas for every niche. Some for subjects I didn’t even know I was interested in until I saw the module description. My advice would be to keep an open mind and pursue what interests you. It’ll make your study so much more enjoyable.

2. The support available

As a neurodiverse student, I, like many others, wasn’t sure what to expect in terms of support available at university. You are expected to work much more independently at university than at school. I was worried that I’d struggle to get any work done.

But, in my experience, the University of York staff have been helpful and supportive. They offered study mentors and assistive technology to help ease the transition to university and made sure I could work to my full ability. At first, I found it scary to ask for the help I needed, but my lecturers were kind and encouraging of me. This really helped give me the confidence to apply for extra support.

If you are a neurodiverse student and you are offered the opportunity to attend Step Ahead, an introduction to the university for underrepresented students, I would highly recommend going. I know it can be nerve-wracking to meet so many new people at once, but I found it helped prepare me for freshers’ week. It also gave me time to make a few friends before I’d even arrived at university!

3. Clubs and societies

My biggest piece of advice to anyone about to start university is this. Do not wait to get involved with clubs and societies. I didn’t start exploring societies until my second year, and I really regret not doing it sooner.

In the last year, I have made so many amazing friends and tried so many new things that I’d never even considered before. I’ve gone from being shy and reluctant to even walk around campus to auditioning for every play going in Dramasoc (I’ve even managed to get the part once or twice!).

Much like the course itself, there are societies for almost every interest. Even if you’ve never met anyone before who likes the same things you do, I’ll bet there will still be a society for you. They can also be an amazing method of low-stakes experimenting with new things, especially at the start of the year.

I didn’t think my involvement in clubs and societies would have any impact on my life outside of the society. But so far, everything I have learned and experienced has helped improve my skills and learning in one way or another. Whether it’s improved my public speaking and problem solving skills, or just taught me the importance of dedication and (god forbid) punctuality, no experience is wasted. 

So, go to the freshers’ fair! Get all the freebies! Maybe even put your name down on a list or two; I promise you won’t regret it.