Philly Alway

Politics and Communication, Media and Culture, 2014

“It was important to me that I could tailor my degree to my interests, in order to get the most out of my time studying. The opportunity to study Politics combined with Communication, Media and Culture was not offered at many other universities”

Philly Alway had her interest in politics ignited during the 2010 general election. Then, after taking some time out after her A-levels, she decided she wanted to know more about how politics works, and how power and democracy interplay.

It was important to me that I could tailor my degree to my interests, in order to get the most out of my time studying. The opportunity to study Politics combined with Communication, Media and Culture was not offered at many other universities.

The exploration of your own interests is highly encouraged and supported. Within the confines of your chosen modules, there is always an opportunity to delve into the topic that fascinates you the most.

Life in Oxford is vibrant and diverse. There are plenty of interesting cultural events, and walking around this beautiful city, taking in the stunning architecture is quite honestly a privilege. After three years here I still look up at the buildings in awe. Oxford is also a very multicultural city, which gives me the opportunity to meet people from lots of different cultural backgrounds.

As one of the UK’s biggest hubs for NGOs, Oxford also offers lots of work experience opportunities, and being relatively close to London, it is easy to visit political landmarks, such as Westminster.

I am hoping to continue in academia and study a master’s degree in Political Communications. From my undergraduate degree I have acquired research skills, analytical skills, communication skills (both verbal and written) and organizational skills.

In my final year I have become very involved with Brookes Radio, Oxford Brookes’ student-run radio society. I produce a news show, which has made me aware of the news making process, a very important consideration in politics.