Jessica Parlour is a class of 2022 graduate of School of Humanities and Social Sciences. Here, she looks back on her time studying at Leeds Beckett. 

Course: BA (Hons) Criminology with Psychology

Why did you choose to study Criminology with Psychology at Leeds Beckett?

I’m from Leeds and I wanted to stay here. Also, criminology and psychology has always been something I’ve enjoyed, I’ve always watched a lot of crime dramas! It’s not quite like that in real life but it massively interests me, so I thought go for it, why not?

What was your favourite part of the course?

Probably meeting people in groups. With Covid, we didn’t get to do much of that so when we did, it was really nice to actually meet people and talk about what we were doing on the course and things like that.

Were there any challenges you faced whilst at university?

I had worked for six years, so coming back to studying after all that time was really difficult for me. But I feel like you have to do it.

What’s next for you now?

I’ve just got a job with the Civil Service and I’ll be starting that in a couple of months. I’ll be working within the Asylum and Protection team within the Home Office.

How did studying at Leeds Beckett help you get your new job? 

It made me think about how theory underpins a lot of real-life processes.  Prior to coming to university, I wasn’t aware of any theory, so it was a huge part of my learning. It definitely gave me confidence and I’ve now got my dream job!

What advice would you give to someone considering studying Criminology with Psychology?

If you’re not sure, just go for it! At the end of the day, it flies by. When I started, I was thinking ‘Oh, it’s such a long three years’, but it goes so fast and I’ve learnt a lot. I think I’ve changed for the better, so yeah it’s been great.