Studying Transcultural and Traditional Music Studies
Alexandre Hurr
2023
Distance Learning
2023
Alexandre studies on the part-time masters course, pursuing his interest of traditional and world music. The distance learning option gives him the opportunity to study at a time that suits him, making the course accessible alongside his other commitments.
Why did you decide to study at Sheffield
There are very few courses in the country that offer specifically what I was looking for. It was also important for me to be able to carry on with my career while being able to study, the nature of this course allowed me to do exactly that. Additionally, Simon Keegan-phipps' work (course leader in my first year) was very inspirational to my undergraduate dissertation so to find out that he was a key member of staff I found very reassuring.
How did you find out about studying in Sheffield?
With the limited number of courses of this nature in the UK, it was not hard to find once I completed my undergraduate degree. I did a lot of research online by searching my specific interests, however, this one met my requirements so perfectly it was an easy choice.
What was your initial impression of Sheffield and the University when you first arrived?
As my course is online, my arrival was more of a series of emails. However, the members of staff made sure to reach out plenty of times ensuring I was ready and what to expect. They managed the advantages and disadvantages of an online course very well.
What does a typical day look like for you?
A typical day focusing on my masteres will involve a video call, this will either be as a cohort with a lecturer or between a few of us that has been set up independently as part of our study. I will also check Blackboard for resources that have been uploaded by the lecturer, there are regularly new videos, reading suggestions or prompts for our work. The rest of the day will then be reading and writing! Working away at the hand-ins, refining and researching the topic at hand.
What are the highlights of your experience in Sheffield so far?
I've been able to greatly advance the quality of my writing and develop a greater understanding of what it takes to master a topic, no matter how small and niche it may be. It's also enabled me to connect with others within the field despite it being an online course, I've met a lot of others that are active within the field and made important connections that I hope will serve me in the future.
What would you say to a student considering studying at The University of Sheffield?
The course was in fact almost exactly what was advertised and what I expected, therefore, ensure you fully research and understand what the course is offering. If, once you have done this, you are very motivated then you will not be dissapointed! Also, a decent level of computer and internet literacy will serve you greatly.