Thomas Packer-Stucki

 

Watch a short video about why Thomas chose to study the MRes in Linguistics (1+3 years PhD)

What advice would you give to new students thinking about studying with us?

If you are thinking about joining us in SLLF, that’s really exciting! Have you had a look at the different courses on offer here at QMUL - it is important to find one that matches your interests and expectations. Talking to tutors or past students can be a really helpful way of understanding what to expect. You should also think about QMUL in a wider sense, and whether this University in terms of its campus, accommodation and student services is what you are looking for. QMUL offers a great blend of campus and city life, so it usually works well for a lot of people! 

Why did you choose to study at QMUL?

I chose to study at QMUL because of the incredible sociolinguistics department at the University. Studying here would allow me to learn from the best researchers in the field and meet lots of like-minded students. QMUL as a University also has a really attractive ethos around diversity and inclusion. Although I am further along on my academic journey, I am a working-class student whose parents did not go into higher education. It’s nice to know that QM is aware of the challenges people like me face and works hard to support them in coming to university (if that’s what’s right for them!) 

I was attracted to the 1+3 sociolinguistics programme at QMUL as the first year would provide me with some excellent theoretical grounding in some areas of linguistics which were not taught as my previous institution. Queen Mary is also a research-intensive university, so it seemed like an excellent place to hone my research skills and methods! 

What do you enjoy the most about your programme?

The thing I enjoy most about my course is the opportunity for interaction and discussion with all of the researchers/lecturers in the department. We have an entire module where and different member of staff comes and speaks to us about their research each week, and it is an excellent way to broaden your academic knowledge and make connections with excellent people. 

How do you think studying your degree is helping you to reach your future career goals?

I am hoping to become a researcher/lecturer myself, so the research skills and fine linguistic training I am currently receiving are standing me in good stead for the future. 

How do you like to spend your time away from your studies?

Away from my studies, I like to spend time visiting friends (I love travelling and my close friends from where I grew up have ended up scattered all over Europe!) and also presenting radio, at an amateur/community level that is! 

What you would like to do after you finish your studies?

Become a lecturer and researcher in sociolinguistics 

Do you have any advice for students moving to/ studying in London?

London is amazing, and not as crazy expensive as you might think! Sure, going out and paying rent will cost you a little more, but it’s worth looking at the cost of public transport and of trains home/to the rest of the country. Transport here is often amazingly cheap and helps make up for the extra money you might need to spend elsewhere. Also, you will always find something to do, or people who you get along with in London. It’s not just a place for extroverted people, it’s so wonderfully big and diverse that everybody can find their niche.