Department of Politics, International Relations and Philosophy activity hub

No need to rush off and buy a textbook just yet! There'll be plenty of reading once the term gets underway, leaving you little time to indulge in your personal favourites. So, this is the perfect opportunity to dive into topics you're really passionate about.

Don't worry if your passion leads you towards fiction, graphic novels or other creative works. Absolutely go for it! Reading great stuff, no matter the genre, is what matters most. This is especially true if you're a bit nervous about the essay writing that lies ahead. You see, the real key to good writing isn't just about mastering grammar rules – it's about soaking up as much good writing as you can, and getting a feel for what works. So find something you absolutely love and dive in. 

On the note of essays, if you're looking to sharpen your academic writing skills, our very own Dr. Ursula Hackett has curated a fabulous resource called "How to Write Brilliant Essays". You'll find it chock-full of useful tips, engaging YouTube videos, and exciting exercises designed to keep your writing skills at the top level required for academic success. Take a look at http://www.brilliant-essays.com/ when you get a chance. 

There's a huge universe of podcasts out there waiting for you to explore.

Here are a few we like:

• Past Present Future: hosted by David Runciman, is an intellectually stimulating podcast that masterfully explores the history of ideas across diverse realms like politics, philosophy, and technology. Each week, Runciman engages in fascinating conversations with a range of experts, shedding light on the origins of these influential ideas and their contemporary relevance. The London Review of Books partnership enhances the podcast’s depth and credibility.
  • The Rest is Politics: Two men who’ve been at the heart of the political world - former Downing Street Director of Communications and Strategy Alastair Campbell and cabinet minister Rory Stewart - join forces from across the political divide. The Rest Is Politics lifts the lid on the secrets of Westminster, offering an insider’s view on politics at home and abroad, while bringing back the lost art of disagreeing agreeably.
  • These Times: Tom McTague and Cambridge professor Helen Thompson team up to investigate the history of today’s politics — and what it means for our future. Each week they will explore the great forces, ideas and events that led us to where we are, whether in Britain, the United States, Europe or beyond.
  • Empire: William Dalrymple and Anita Anand explore the stories, personalities and events of empire over the course of history. The first series looks at the British in India, covering the East India Company, the Raj, Gandhi, Independence and Partition. The second series focusses on the rise and fall of the Ottoman Empire.
  • 1619: a podcast from the New York Times on race and slavery. Great if you want more historical background.
  • Reasons to be Cheerful: Ed Miliband MP and comedian Geoff Lloyd pick an issue every week and ask on an expert for ideas about how to improve things. Policy-focused, good for those into UK politics in particular, and for those looking for concrete ideas to make the world a better place.
  • The History of Philosophy without any gaps: at 352 episodes and counting, the podcast to go to if you are interested in learning more about particular historical political thinkers.
  • The Talking Migration podcast: serious academics and policy people dealing with complicated issues around migration and asylum.

You're stepping into an exciting era! Once upon a time, we'd have advised students to delve into newspapers. But today, there's a whole new world of critical and thought-provoking content waiting for you in the blogosphere, especially when it comes to contemporary politics. So, why not give it a whirl? Exploring and engaging with these fantastic blogs can be a real game-changer.

Here are a few:

- Justice Everywhere: http://justice-everywhere.org
- What to do about now: https://www.whattodoaboutnow.com
- The Disorder Of Things | For the Relentless Criticism of All Existing Conditions Since 2010 (this is international relations done with a critical hammer)
- Engenderings | Critical engagements with culture and society
- Project Vox – Project Vox amplifies the voices of early modern women philosophers.
- NOTCHES – (re)marks on the history of sexuality

• How to rethink your idea of success in the new year. By Dr John Sellars. Read the article.

If you're planning to study our BA Philosophy (with Integrated Foundation Year) you can find more information on our Integrated Foundation Year applicant hub.

Feel free to ask questions, you can also ask one of our current students.

Twitter: @rhulpirp 

For any other information on life as a student and getting prepared for university, see our general applicant hub.