Lydia Brennan-Doran

My favourite thing about studying at Edge Hill has been the visits and trips abroad. They were so amazing and always enriched the module that each trip correlated with perfectly.

The lecturers that I had were such experts in their field, not just researchers, but they had practical and lived experiences in roles within their respective sectors. My politics lecturer got to know all of us and our interests really well and this was reflected in what was taught.

Politics is a fast-paced environment our lectures and seminars were tailored to what was going on in contemporary politics, I would say that this certainly helped prepare me for my career.

The most memorable moment of my degree would have to be a trip in my third year to visit the Scottish Parliament. We stayed over in the centre of Edinburgh, we got free time with course mates to explore the city and then we got to watch First Ministers’ questions in the chamber. It was amazing!

In my final year we did a ‘working in politics’ module which encouraged me to reach out to local MPs about casework vacancies in their offices. Shortly after, I got my first graduate job as a fulltime caseworker for the former MP for West Lancashire.

I have always had a very keen interest in politics, having been a member of a political party and campaign volunteer since I was old enough to do so. I was under the impression that jobs in politics were out of reach for me and that I would be levelled against Oxbridge graduates, however, I have proved to myself and employers that I have just as much to offer.

My lecturers were so inspiring and allowed us to gain practical skills and confidence which was the final push that gave me the self-assurance to pursue my current career.

My job is a varied role, and no day is exactly the same. Generally, Monday-Friday I am in the constituency office where I assist with writing newspaper columns, I manage diary arrangements and communications with the media. I also manage the website and everyday there is something new to go on there. I take phone calls from constituents and help with casework. Every Friday I get to spend the day with Cat (the MP), staffing her for constituency visits, surgeries, meetings, and events.

My short-term plan is focusing on the next general election and helping to make sure that my boss is re-elected.

If you are interested in studying at Edge Hill, then absolutely do it! It was the best decision I ever made. The course I did beat any expectation that I had and the University is such a supportive and safe environment, I would recommend it anyone.