Ruth Parker is an MA English Literature student, specialising in creative writing. Having previously studied a Humanities degree at undergraduate level, Ruth has returned to university 25 years later to gain new skills and increase her employability prospects, specifically with the hope of getting her work published. 

Course: MA English Literature

Why did you choose to study a Masters in English Literature?

I’ve been working as a freelance copywriter for the past 13 years, and I’ve also spent some time working as a college lecturer. Many employers ask for an MA level qualification - especially for roles teaching creative writing, so I knew having a Masters in English Literature would help me progress in my career. I’m also an avid reader, so studying the creative writing pathway felt like a natural choice. 

The publishing industry tends to ask for this level of qualification too so to remain competitive at this stage in life I needed to update my skills and qualifications.

Having been out of education for the past 25 years, what’s it been like returning to university? 

It's been surprisingly easy to get back into academic life. Having also worked as a college lecturer, it's nice to be on the other side of the desk for a change and I've found the process enjoyable. My classmates are great! Returning to study has been a positive and welcoming experience throughout.

What attracted you to study English Literature at Leeds Beckett University?

The opportunity to study with respected academics in a nearby city was my motivation for choosing Leeds Beckett.

What do you enjoy most about studying MA English Literature?

The satisfaction of producing fresh and thought-provoking work and conversations with insightful tutors. New ideas emerge all the time and inspiration has been gained through the course. It's good to be around others who share an interest in writing and to tackle new subject areas. 

My writing interests include metal music studies, and my MA thesis will focus on gender studies, looking at masculinity with reference to subculture and fantasy fiction. It's been good to connect with tutors at Leeds Beckett who specialise in these fields, as it’s a subject area I hope to continue to write about after the course - and hopefully to publish in this rather specialised field.

What value do you see in having a postgraduate degree?

Having a Masters degree immediately gives you access to a wider range of employment opportunities. The inspiration to write on a wider range of topics has also emerged from my studies and I will undoubtedly work at getting published after the course.

There is also value from a personal development perspective. Studying for a Masters is an enriching experience. To prove to yourself that you can do it is rewarding. I hope that it brings professional benefits too, including applying for higher salary employment. 

What do you hope to do after you complete your studies?

Teaching creative writing could be a side-line income in the future, but my intention is to get my words into print. I've discovered I have a lot to say!