Postgraduate Prospectus

www.essex.ac.uk | Research degrees
Francesco Perales, Seville,
Spain – MA Sociology and
Panel Data Analysis ’09,
PhD Applied Social and
Economic Research
Student
profile
After finishing my
undergraduate studies in
London, I wanted to specialise
in quantitative sociological
analysis. My tutors
recommended Essex, specifically
highlighting the graduate courses offered
by the Institute for Social and Economic
Research (ISER), which has a strong
reputation in this field.
After my MA, the choice to stay here
for my PhD was easy. The University’s
facilities, international reputation for
sociology, strong links with funding
bodies and the friendliness of staff
tipped the scales in favour of Essex.
As my degree progresses, I can
sense how my academic skills and
understanding of my field has developed,
which is very gratifying. I’ve found that
you can perceive a progressive transition
from the academic to the professional
sphere, and a growing thirst for
knowledge. From the first year onwards,
I have been provided with a first-class
office, supervision from world-leading
academics, access to a specialised
research library, and opportunities for
professional development.
I enjoy the balance between work and
social life at Essex. Our Colchester
Campus is located in a peaceful
environment which facilitates self-study
but the Students’ Union, with numerous
clubs and societies, ensures there is
always something different to do, from
cinema screenings and art exhibitions
to sports and parties.
The good thing about obtaining a
doctoral degree at Essex is that it helps
keep your career options open. It is an
excellent route to a job in the private
or public sector, within the UK and
oversees. I will graduate with many
warm memories, as it is here that
I met my wife and made many good
friends, have grown as a
person and developed my
professional skills to a level
I had not anticipated.
Postgraduate Prospectus 2012 | 23