Susie Longstaff - An Alumnus Looks Back...

Hi! I’m Susie. 

I was a foundation year student in the 2020-2021 academic year and went on to pursue a History degree. Throughout my studies, I learned to claim my space in the world and the value of my voice, nurtured by Newman’s supportive and encouraging community. 

Transitioning to a Master's degree in the History of Medicine at the University of Warwick has been both exciting and challenging. Moving to a larger university has been a completely different experience, but the strong foundation and confidence I gained during my undergraduate studies keep me going. I never imagined pursuing a Master's degree, just being a student was an incredible life achievement that once felt like a distant dream. I was the homeless girl with zero A-levels who, after finally getting into college, was kicked out, leaving my dreams of higher education shattered. But hope is a wonderful thing. I truly believe anyone can thrive at the right time, in the right place, and with the right people. 

The biggest adjustment has been the workload, with higher expectations and more independent study. My schedule now consists of two days on campus and three full study days. The reading lists are long, and the essays are even longer. This term alone, I have two 6,000-word essays and one 2,500-word essay due by April before moving on to my 20,000-word dissertation. It sounds overwhelming, but you learn to adapt to new expectations and become accustomed to writing more. 

This is your journey, make the most of it. And as an alumni, I want you to know: I believe in you! 

(Photograph of Susie taken by Jo Lewis for the 60th Anniversary of the University of Warwick - 'Our Humans of Warwick')