Annie Snee

Why USW was my top choice for History

History has always been my passion. From a very young age, I knew it was something I wanted to dedicate my life to. I've always been curious about how people lived before us - how their choices shaped our world today and our world in the future. Studying History has given me a really strong sense of connection to the culture and community of Wales. 

I chose to study at USW after coming to an Open Day here. From the moment I walked in, everyone was so friendly, wanting to help us in any way, and they were eager to answer questions. The lecturers were welcoming, inviting, and knew exactly how to captivate our attention with their stories. They told us that classes were in small groups, so I'd be able to get to know everyone on a personal level and it wouldn't be as overwhelming as a big lecture hall. 

My favourite part of the course so far has been meeting new people with the same interests as me and we're all so like-minded. It's so amazing that we've been able to talk about history and be passionate with each other. It's really inspiring and it motivates me to do my work when I know other people are as enthusiastic as I am.

Work experience and industry connections 

In industry, I've had the opportunity of taking part in projects that involved interviewing nuclear test veterans, which helped me connect history to real human experience and understand how personal stories shape our understanding of the past. And after visiting a museum in my first year, the archivist there invited me back to work in the archive, to teach me and train me. I also volunteer in Castell Coch. 

The networking opportunities on this course have provided me links across the UK. I’ve had a professional networking opportunity from guest lectures. I attended talks from professional historians and researchers, and they've provided amazing networking opportunities and insights into different areas of history. I've already begun developing vital skills that I'll need for public speaking, negotiations and creating exhibitions. And the lecturers and career advisors are there to help me to continue developing my industry skills, now and after I graduate.  

I'm very proud of my current project. I'm curating an exhibition in Castell Coch about the Belle Époque, which is a period of history that we learned about in our first year. So I'm using my knowledge from first year and transferring it over into my second year and I'm really excited to produce my research. 

Studying in Cardiff, there's always an exciting and lively vibe here. Cardiff has so much history from the Castle to the Bay, so it feels like you're surrounded by the past while you study it. Being here makes what I'm learning feel more real and connected to everyday life, and there are also many great museums and archives here.  

I also have a part-time job in retail. It’s been tough at times, but it gives you that extra experience. Getting yourself out there and earning money on the side is a good bonus. 

After graduating, I'm hoping to be an exhibition manager in a museum in Berlin. I have a strong passion for German history. I’ve visited Berlin a few times and its history is so rich. 

Advice for future History students 

My advice to anyone considering studying history is to read widely. Develop your reading skills now, so it'll be easier when term starts. Also don't worry if you don't know everything, because nobody does. You will get there eventually. And get a feel for the subject, visit museums, read articles - know what you're getting yourself into.  

Everyone feels nervous, it's their first time too. Don't be afraid to go up to people and speak to them because they're probably as afraid as you are.  

And show your enthusiasm because lecturers love knowing other people are as passionate as they are about their subject!