Hi, I’m Eleanor and I study BA History/Economics at the University of York. After I received my offer to study my chosen subjects, I must say that I was filled with some unease. The uncertainty of how my days would look and how my subjects would blend was a daunting thought. This may be a familiar feeling to you, so please know that this is an experience felt by many. What I aim to do in this blog is to offer you some insight – into life at York, my studies so far, and how choosing this joint-honours combination was the best choice I made.
Why History and Economics?
When applying for university initially, one of the hardest things for me was picking between my favourite subjects. I couldn’t come to a decision because I loved both History and Economics for distinct reasons. History requires us to think critically about topics and changes, whereas economics helps to understand theory and data in real time. After everything, I realised that studying these subjects together was more than just being unable to choose one, but it was learning to see both subjects as one. After attending Offer holder days at York and being met with such enthusiasm from both departments, I realised this was the place that would bring my dream study to life.
How my studies blended into one:
Here at York, the first optional module I chose was Foundations of Economic History. It was the perfect combination of past events and changes but through an economic lens, something I had never encountered before. At the same time, I was studying Societies and Economies in World History, and Principles of Economics. This meant I was studying real life case studies of economic change, whilst learning the reasoning behind it across two separate modules. It gave a really rounded feel to my first studies of both subjects and reflected how these subjects complimented each other in practice. The lecturers are really good at introducing new concepts through their concise presentations. Seminars have also encouraged me to be more open to alternative perspectives and discussing ideas to strengthen them. Both of which have been invaluable to my studies.
Support and Academic Feedback
One of my biggest concerns during my first semester at university was maintaining good grades. With a whole new structure to assessments and departmental differences between how both subjects were examined, this was tough to adjust to.
Fortunately, my modules’ structuring accounted for this change. I had formative assessments built into essay-based modules to develop my skills and receive direct feedback from lecturers/seminar leaders, without contributing to my overall grade. Not to mention, there are always people who you can reach out to with any questions about the course.
Balancing studies and socialising at York
At York, I soon realised that socialising is at the heart of the University experience as much as learning. There is a vibrant array of societies and social spaces across campus, and something for everyone – whether it be subject related or sport related. I personally found great comfort in the University’s Christian Union who ran freshers-themed events in the first week. This strengthened my faith and opened me up to like-minded people. York also has a variety of on-campus cafes, bars, and seating areas to relax and unwind with friends, away from studies.
Tips for future students
My biggest piece of advice for future students is to get involved. This involvement doesn’t limit itself to your chosen study, it extends to societies and college events. For example, most societies have socials every Wednesday with different themes and activities, and seasonal formal events. You have the opportunity to try something you have never done, with no expectation of commitment, so why not! Sometimes the memories and friends made along the way are all that matter.
Final comments
York’s support and opportunities have made it easy to navigate stressful situations of all kinds. Don’t get me wrong, my degree so far has been thrilling, but it comes with challenges. It’s tackling these challenges and setbacks that allows for personal and academic growth. I hope this has shed light on the realities of joint-honours degrees, and just what kind of life awaits you at University. As I think back to when I was full of doubt about my choices, now I can safely say making this choice has led me on the most rewarding journey. A journey in York that awaits you too.
Read more student stories about studying History and Economics at York.
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