Full Name: Cait Pilkington

Undergraduate Course: BA History and Politics

What type of postgraduate study did you do/are you doing? Master’s

What is the title of your postgraduate course:

MA Public Policy

Why did you decide to undertake postgraduate study:

I wanted to focus my interests in an area I was really interested in, which would hopefully help me get into work in the area in the future.

Why did you choose to do postgraduate study at Reading?

I love the University and it has provided me with countless opportunities throughout my undergraduate studies so I wanted to continue here. I was also awarded a partial scholarship.

What has been the best thing about doing postgraduate study?

Gaining more knowledge and experience in topic areas I am truly interested in.

What tips would you give to someone considering applying for postgraduate study?

 Have someone else read your application statement – it always helps. Also, look at the modules that will be on offer to you, and speak to the Programme Director about whether you would be able to take modules from a different school; they tend to be quite flexible with that, and it could mean you’re able to study something of interest to you that you may not otherwise be able to undertake.

How did your UROP experience influence your decision to go on to postgraduate study?

I realised I enjoyed independent research and I wanted to continue that.