A day in the life of a postgraduate student

Liv Norris

English Literature MA

Hello! I’m Liv, and I’m studying a Master’s degree in English Literature here at the University of Huddersfield. I am loving every second of my course, from the variety of reading to the insightful discussions. Whether you’re currently studying and wondering whether the postgraduate route is appealing to you, or exploring your next options, this blog will outline my day as a postgraduate student and provide a glimpse into my experience so far.

6:30am - I’m a commuter, so I've become used to these early mornings. This is when I usually wake up if I have a 10am seminar or lecture. It is early; however, I know it prepares me for the world of work and early starts! I ensure I have breakfast before I leave, as it can really prepare you for the day. I like to have eggs, fruit, or cereal.

8:10am – I set off for the train station

8:30am – This is when my first train leaves towards Leeds city centre. It is usually bustling with people ready to start their day.

9:00am – My train to Huddersfield departs. I enjoy this train as it gives me time to do some extra reading or study my notes for an upcoming lecture or seminar.

9:30am – I arrive at university after walking from Huddersfield train station. Once I'm here, I like to get a hot drink from the various places across campus and meet my friend before the lesson begins.

10:00am – My lecture or seminar usually begins around this time if it is a morning session. My modules are all extremely interesting, so lectures and seminars are such a positive part of my day. My lectures typically last around an hour, with seminars being two hours long.

12:00pm – Once the seminar or lecture is over, and I usually go and get some lunch at the University café. This is a great time to unwind and socialise with friends. Additionally, it makes the most of the University’s relaxing areas. Occasionally, there will be stalls that represent a particular society, or a bake sale or sample sale with clothing. I would recommend everyone takes the time to visit these stalls within their day, I’ve found some great bits.

1:00pm- I will spend some time in the University Library and catch up on any reading I need to do. I love the Library, especially the quiet zones, they are perfect areas to study and read.

2:00pm- I begin to head home around 2pm. Before I do this, I love to browse the shops in the town centre. I really recommend ‘The Works’ for affordable books and stationery. I will sometimes stop at Costa Coffee and grab a hot drink to help with the cold weather - something all commuters can relate to!

2:45pm- I begin my commute home. I utilise this journey and do some more reading. I have done this since my undergraduate studies and have found it to help balance the workload.

3:45pm- I arrive home. I relax and take some time for myself; it is so important to involve self-care into your day and remember to have some time for things that you enjoy. I will sometimes go for a run, walk my dog, or see my friends when I get home from university. I believe this creates a perfect balance between university life and your personal life.

I hope this day in the life of a postgraduate student provides some insight into a route of study you may be considering or perhaps haven’t considered before. It is important to note, that my days can be shorter or longer than the day detailed in this blog, depending on what I have on. However, this is usually my daily routine.

Read about other Postgraduate students' experiences at the University of Huddersfield:

· Transitioning from undergraduate to postgraduate, what’s different?

· Great expectations: Moving universities and advancing studies

· From Vietnam to the UK: a journey of stepping out of my comfort zone

· What I’ll take away from my postgraduate experience