PhD History student Georgie Fitzgibbon has been at the University since starting her Undergraduate degree in 2013. She tells us more about her experience as a researcher at the University of Birmingham.
Why did you choose to study a PhD in History?
“When I finished my BA in History and International Relations in 2013 I wanted to continue on at university. My History dissertation had sparked an interest in medieval studies, and during my MA I was lucky enough to secure PhD funding. This conferred wider opportunities, such as networking, presenting conference papers and teaching.”
Why did you choose to undertake research at the University of Birmingham?
“I came to the University of Birmingham for my MA in Medieval Studies in 2013, having been attracted by the course, which was impressively interdisciplinary. I very nearly chose Birmingham for my undergraduate degree, so was already familiar with the campus and department. My PhD application was shaped by discussions with my supervisors (one of whom supervised my MA dissertation); it was an easy decision to stay on.”
What are the best things about your course?
“Aside from learning so much more about my topic, one of the best things has to be the people I have met at the University and through the Midlands4Cities Doctoral Training Partnership. Attending postgraduate societies and departmental seminars, as well as making use of the fantastic workspace for CAL postgrads at Westmere House, allows you to build up great friendships. The opportunity to work with my supervisors has been an enjoyable experience; it’s an important relationship.”
What is life like as a researcher at the University of Birmingham?
“Busy – in a good way! In addition to the day-to-day research and writing there are training events (for example for using archives) and language classes (in my case Latin and French).
“I became involved with the EMREM (Early Medieval, Medieval, Renaissance, Reformation, Early Modern) Forum during my MA, and served on the committee throughout my PhD. EMREM runs workshops, roundtables and research presentation sessions, in addition to an annual Symposium.
“I also attended the CeSMA (Centre for the Study of the Middle Ages) research seminars. In my capacity as a PG representative, I attended CeSMA and Staff- Student Committee meetings, which is an excellent way to understand how decisions are made within the department.”
Outside of your research, what experience have you gained and how will it help you in the future?
“In addition to developing my research skills I gained a range of experiences during my PhD that have helped me gain my current job as an International Adviser at the British Academy.
“My varying teaching schedule improved my time-management skills, organising conferences involved team-work, delegation, budget-management, and social media skills. Presenting my own research at academic conferences, poster presentations, public engagement events improved my written and oral communication skills.”
Find out more studying for a PhD in History over on our course pages.