Lydia studied English Literature at the University of Hull (2017-20), followed by a Masters (also at Hull) in Creative Writing and English Literature (2020-1).
Why did you choose to study English at university?
I chose to study English as I wanted to go to university pursuing something I really enjoyed and had an interest in, rather than with a specific job in mind. I nearly picked Philosophy and History, but I also felt English Literature would open up the most variety in terms of careers following university.
What did you do after university?
After university I joined Emerald Publishing’s Books team, working in Editorial as a Content Development Editor. I manage a vendor team of editors based in Chennai, overseeing 140 books a year from submission to publication, and working with authors/ editors and internal teams to make sure the process is smooth and every stage is on time.
What skills did studying English develop (both academically but also in terms of life more generally)?
Academic writing skills, public speaking, research, organisation.
Did studying English prepare you for your career?
As part of both my degrees my writing skills were honed and improved. This academic/ professional style is useful in my job, especially when proofing or making editorial decisions.
I also worked as a Faculty Rep for Open Days and acted as Editor-in-Chief of the university journal which helped give me a small insight into managing a publication involving a number of contributors. The Faculty Rep role gave me experience working in a university environment, representing the university in a professional way that I carried into interviews and my job.
Is there anything else that you’d like to tell us about studying English?
Just that I absolutely loved both my degrees! They really did help me to transition into adulthood/ working.
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