BA (Hons) English Literature

Student profile

Tara Knower - BA (Hons) English Literature

I chose to study English Literature because I felt it would give me plenty of options for after education. I didn't have a clear idea of what career I would like so I felt studying English Literature would give me a broad range of transferable skills that employers would appreciate.

Portsmouth's English Department has great facilities and the staff are all actively involved in researching. It is also ranked 15th out of 94 institutions in the UK so I felt it was a great place to study. The town is vibrant and fun and I like the way students and the public intermingle as opposed to a campus university where you are more contained. I also love living near the seafront!

The support for students studying Literature at Portsmouth is great. In particular Purple Door offers great services from career advice, to interview help and finding placements. For my final year they helped me find a volunteering placement so I could gain experience for my CV.

Studying for an English Literature degree has definitely broadened my options for a career and also boosted my confidence. It has also made me realize how valuable good writing, researching and presentation skills are and I now feel confident I have a lot to offer potential employers.