Thomas Wilson graduated with a BA in Criminology and Sociology in June 2020. He’s currently studying a Master’s degree in Sociology at the University of Manchester
Can you tell us why you chose to study Criminology and Sociology for your BA degree?
The ideas, theories and practices of both these subjects do not merely live within textbooks but can be seen and experienced within everyday life. The fact that you can learn about Bourdieu in a lecture and within the same moment apply his understanding to grand issues such as power inequalities, (and simply explain why you may have eaten the breakfast you did), fuels an intense desire to expand your sociological imagination. Studying the joint honours course, was a decision based on the fact that I would be able to explore two very interesting and complementary subjects.
What attracted you to study Criminology and Sociology at Kent?
I visited an Open Day at Kent and whilst walking around the campus, there was an indescribable feeling that I experienced. The friendly faces that greeted me, the impressive lecture halls, and the open green spaces, all helped to affirm my decision that Kent was the place where I wanted to study.
Did your course live up to your expectations? What were the highlights of your programme?
Being the first of my family to attend university, I simply did not know what to expect. Any rough expectations I might have had were far surpassed. Studying a joint honours degree in Criminology and Sociology, I was able to build a repertoire of knowledge in each field which began to increasingly complement the other. This was useful but also satisfying as I began to appreciate the wider understandings and debates of certain theories.
What impressed you most about our academic staff?
The academic staff at Kent were very approachable. They would act to ensure the best interests of their students – for example, by making time for one-to-one conversations following lectures and seminars.
How did you change during your time at Kent, in terms of your knowledge, skills and characteristics?
The experience of university helps you grow and develop your understanding of the world indefinitely (both academically and socially). Kent offers a safe, engaging and fun environment to reach your best potential. Studying at Kent has undoubtably influenced my academic skills and also my personal skills. The motivating attitude of the staff helped inspire a real determination to succeed. This is something that I’m very much still benefiting from to this day.
Is there anything you learnt in particular during your studies that helps you now?
Now studying a Master’s in Sociology, I can affirm that the undergraduate course at Kent does an excellent job at inspiring and setting the foundations for future academics within the social sciences.
Could you describe a typical day as a Master’s student?
The current structure of my day is in fact very similar to the life I had as an undergraduate student. There is more onus to explore further readings and develop personal arguments within essays, but thanks to the skills I have acquired form my time at Kent, I am more than able to meet these demands.
How did Kent help you into your career?
As a student hoping to stay within academia, Kent has supplied me with all the key tools I may need in the future. The engaging ‘methods’ modules helped teach valuable skills needed for anyone wishing to conduct their own research in the future.
What are your future plans/aspirations? How do you see your career progressing?
I would very much like to continue to work within the university setting. Both conducting social research and lecturing appear highly attractive prospects.
What is your favourite memory of Kent?
A favourite ritual that I had whilst studying at Kent was to meet friends for a coffee in the library (or the fields if the weather permitted it) following a lecture. With Kent being a campus university, it’s really easy to become engrossed in the sociable nature of university life.
Favourite module?
My favourite module was ‘The Sociology of Work’ delivered by Tim Strangleman. I found this course highly interesting, especially tracing how work patterns and identities change over time due to social effects.
What advice would you give to somebody thinking of coming to Kent?
Kent as a city is very homely, I believe this is why I adjusted so well (having come from the small town of Wigan – some five hours away). If you want an inclusive experience whilst at university, with students and staff members, Kent is a fantastic place to study.
How would you describe your time at Kent in three words?
Far too short.
Study Criminology and Sociology at Kent: Why do people commit crime? What causes crime rates to rise or fall? How do societies work, develop and transform? Our joint honours programme Criminology and Sociology provides a comprehensive and academically rigorous approach to these pressing questions. Learn more about studying a BA Criminology and Sociology degree at Kent
Explore the full range of social sciences courses you can study at Kent