At Reading, we help you stand out in an increasingly competitive job market with relevant experience, transferable skills and expert guidance. Meet some of our graduates to see where their degrees have taken them.
Chloe Wilson, BA History
"I am currently working as an Archive Assistant at The Salvation Army International Heritage Centre. This largely involves cataloguing accessions; conducting research and writing exhibition text for collections displays; answering public enquiries; carrying out elementary conservation checks and procedures; and managing social media channels.
The Discovering Archives and Collections module that I undertook in my third year acted as a catalyst for my career in the heritage sector, providing me with invaluable practical experience working in an archive.
My time at Reading taught me that education should not be a means to an end but a challenging and continuing experience. This approach has given me the confidence to actively pursue and say yes to different opportunities. In my current role this has led me to discover my passion for collections conservation and I look forward to beginning the next chapter of my education with an master's in Preventive Conservation.”
Owen Kilby, BA History and Politics
“I work as a Policy Advisor at the UK Home Office (part of the International Strategy, Engagement and Devolution Directorate). The majority of my modules were international and explored the implications of British colonial rule in South Asia, Southern Africa, and the Middle East. Many of these countries continue to require UK support and so I was naturally attracted to a role that focused on engaging with international partners to support foreign nationals.
By learning about foreign policy and diplomacy, I was interested to join a role that would enable me to contribute to the UK’s activity overseas.
The History course at Reading taught me the value of working with colleagues from different backgrounds to achieve a task as well as the significance of creating an equal and open environment. I also learnt how to summarise large amounts of information, as well as adjusting my writing depending on the audience. The opportunity to present to fellow students helped to build communication skills that I continue to develop today.”
Sean Atkinson, BA History and MA History
“The diverse range of topics available at Reading was incredibly appealing and stood out against the other universities that I was interested in. I enjoyed doing topics such as Rebel Girls and Battleaxes and Benchwarmers – Early Female MPs.
I now work as a secondary school history teacher. I would like to believe I deliver my lessons with enthusiasm for the subject I teach. This enthusiasm comes from the incredible four years spent with the Department of History at Reading. It has allowed me to adapt my current school curriculum to ensure it covers a diverse range of topics.”