School of Sociology and Social Policy

Jack Cunliffe

BA Sociology | 2008 - 2011

About me
I am from Devon, originally, quaint and bucolic but very quiet. I studied Business, Philosophy and Sociology at A-level, and quickly realised that for me Business lacked spirit, philosophy lacked pragmatism and sociology fit me like a glove!

Why I chose Sociology at Leeds
Sociology is a subject that changes your whole perspective on the world, events and processes that you would have taken for granted are given whole new meanings, and it really is an enlightening course as it opens your eyes to things you never would have noticed.

The city of Leeds needs no introduction as one of the most happening metropolis’ in the country. Famed for its incredible music scene, there really is something available every night and every day of the year that you wouldn’t want to miss, once you k now the city (it won’t take long, it really is quite compact in the centre) you will find many life enriching opportunities.

My passion for Sociology
Sociology is a course that gives you understanding of the world. It gives perspective but it is also in the front line of policy making, development and charitable work globally, there is no area of life that cannot be understood or analysed in a sociological context as in many ways it is the study of life, of social groups and of interactions on every level of existence.

My experience
As I now reach the time of graduation I wait in hope for my final grade. The teaching level at Leeds really is second to none, when I have had problems in the past there is always someone to help, all of the staff have open door times where you can pop in for a chat. By the final year I felt that I knew much of the staff as well as many students.

Sociology is a great course, it provides variable skills but unlike some subjects you will be excited about lectures as they can be truly interesting.

This course at this Uni has made me who I am today; it has broadened my horizons and challenged me consistently.  I will never look at the world in the same way again.

Student Support
When I experienced a few problems in my second year the finance support office were great and the staff within the department were very understanding and offered me good advice with regards to balancing my Uni work with my personal life.

Outside of study
There is a plethora of clubs and activities from sports to interest groups to some that are more fun than sense! There are loads of charities to get together with, win win as you get experience, meet like minded folk and help the world!

I am the vice president of the DJ society; I work on music promotions around Leeds and enjoy going to the allotment in Headingly and doing a bit of gardening. I also play 5 a side football twice a week in a local league, play music with friends and go out as much as the next student. Finding the balance is key when there is so much on offer!

City life
Leeds has everything, art galleries, clubs, pubs, big sport teams, restaurants. It is cheaper than down south but without sacrificing the levels of culture and entertainment. The shopping is amazing as well with a great RANGE of vintage shops and independent boutiques.

After graduation
Once I have graduated, I hope to do a Masters in International Development, either in Leeds or at SOAS. Hopefully I will then be qualified to work for an international development charity or organisation such as the world social organisation.

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