Oliver Coops

What did you enjoy most about your degree programme?

I enjoyed the breadth of module choices on offer, which ranged from exploring the historical development of the sciences to the study of organised crime in the United States. Unlike history courses at other universities, the programme at Exeter gave students a lot of choice and flexibility when it came to completing assignments. Furthermore, the fact that we could choose a dissertation topic on our own accord was very enjoyable and beneficial, as we could truly explore our own historical interests.

Some of the students we are profiling have been awarded a departmental prize or award in recognition of their exceptional achievements. If this applies to you, please can you tell us about this and what it means to you?

I received the Penryn History Dissertation Prize, which was awarded to the most innovative and academically rigorous dissertation. Receiving this meant a lot to me, as I put in months of efforts with regards to research and writing, so winning the prize made me truly realise all the hard work was worth it.

Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?

FXU Football Team, Debating Union.

What was the highlight of your time at Exeter?

Aside from studying my passion, history, in an excellent environment with stellar teaching and unique topics of study, the highlight of my time at Exeter was playing for the University football team. 

What will you miss the most about University?

I will certainly miss playing football every week in the wet and windy Cornish weather. Additionally, I will miss the weekly seminars which always taught me new things and opened my eyes up to new perspectives on matters.

What advice would you give to current and future students? (If you are an international student what would you like to tell future students from back home who might be thinking about applying to study in Exeter?)

 My one piece of advice to current and future students would be to get as fully involved as possible in University life, including societies, sports teams and on your course itself.

What are your plans now that you have graduated?

I will be pursuing a Master’s degree at UCL, studying American History and Politics.