I’m Michael, a first-year French and Politics student and I am really excited to be joining the SPS blogging team. As my degree is a joint-degree, I split my time between the School of Literature, Languages and Cultures and the School of Social and Political Science. This helps keep me from being pidgeon-holed in any single part of the University, enabling me to get a little out of my comfort zone.
North Lanarkshire is where I hail from, about half way between Edinburgh and Glasgow (although a tad closer to Glasgow!). I wanted to move away (but not too far away) and to a bigger city (but not too big), so Edinburgh was pretty much perfect for me! Something I have really enjoyed is how diverse the campus is. Meeting people from all across the world never really gets old!
I am really enjoying my degree at Edinburgh, and I was pleasantly surprised by how complimentary my programmes are. For example, studying Fanon in his native French in Semester 1, to then studying him in Political Thinkers in English in Semester 2. And of course, where there is difference, there is also joy: who knew that international organisations were so interesting, or that there was so much to grammar?
Away from campus, I try to live out my values and my studies into real life. I volunteer a bit at local organisations focusing on sustainability, climate and nature because I think it’s too important to leave it up to others. I also work as a freelance consultant, working with third sector organisations to involve young people in decision-making, develop progressive grant-making and launch impactful campaigns for change. I also spend an enormous amount of time in cafés, particularly those with generous student discounts!
So, are you ready to learn about my SPS journey? Keep reading this blog as I chronicle my academic journey!
