Hollie Dales chose to study a Master's in Security as she wanted to build on her undergraduate degree in Criminology and explore the global security challenges facing the world. Having completed her first degree with BCU, she was keen to stay on in the familiar supportive environment. Here, Hollie reflects on her experience of the course and how it has supported her development and career prospects.
Why did you choose this course at BCU?
When I decided to pursue my Master’s in security studies, BCU was the natural choice for me. Having completed my undergraduate degree in criminology at BCU, I was already very familiar with the supportive environment the faculty offered, and continuing my academic journey here was an easy decision. The course itself stood out from those offered by other institutions, tackling issues deeply relevant to our modern, interconnected world through content which was uniquely tailored to the current security landscape. The encouragement to build a community championed by BCU allowed me to build many great professional relationships, and I was keen to expand this network with my next degree.
What stands out from your experience of the course?
The most memorable moments from the course were the frequent opportunities to interact with guest speakers from a variety of disciplines within the field. These experts not only shared valuable insights but also encouraged us to participate in simulations of real-world scenarios they have faced in their careers. These exercises gave us a rare chance to practice navigating the challenges we may encounter in our professional lives.
On a more personal level, I am extremely proud of several achievements during the course, making my time even more memorable. I managed to earn the highest grade in four of my modules and received offers to publish two of those assessments. I am most proud of my dissertation grade, which took a year’s worth of effort and dedication, and I am genuinely thrilled with the result.
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What skills have you learnt to help shape your career?
The course helped me to develop several key skills which will be invaluable to my progression in my career. The ability to be resilient was especially important, as the course often required perseverance through challenging topics and adaptability to align your interests within the remit of the course. The skill of critical thinking was developed constantly throughout the course, allowing us to become adept in conducting thorough research through the exploration of diverse perspectives. Additionally, I gained advanced knowledge of how relationships between countries affect regional and international stability – crucial insights for understanding today’s security challenges.
How has the course helped prepare you for employment?
Beyond academic knowledge, the course equipped me with the professional skills to thrive in what can be an incredibly intense work environment. Networking opportunities were in abundance, which will undoubtedly prove beneficial as I move forward in my career.
What support and resources did you receive during your studies?
The support I received from my lecturers was exceptional. They went above and beyond to ensure I not only understood the course material but also to support my personal and academic journey. Their guidance was always sincere, and they approached pastoral matters with the same care and attention as academic queries. Such an investment in my success made a huge difference, and I’m incredibly grateful for all they did.
Would you recommend the course?
Absolutely. Security is a field of increasing importance, with its relevance growing every day as global challenges evolve. The course content in thorough and engaging, and the lecturers are nothing short of fantastic, with a wealth of knowledge and personal experience they are glad to share. For anyone looking to make a difference in Security Studies, BCU provides the perfect foundation.