Sociology of Culture, Media and the Arts

While taking part in the master Politics & Society at ESSB last year, I realised how much I enjoyed writing and thinking about and conducting research. One of my tutors advised me to look into the research master Sociology of Culture, Media and the Arts at ESHCC, which I immediately found interesting.  

The freedom to explore and expand your own fields of interest

Having finished the first block of the research master, I can conclude that I’ve made the right decision. As I had no background in media or arts studies, I was not sure whether the master would suit my interests perfectly. However, at the start of the programme, it became clear right away that the topics of media and arts are mostly used as a backdrop against which we are introduced to sociological theories and methodological approaches, which we then get to apply in assignments on topics of our own interest. In other words, we get the freedom to explore and expand our own fields of interest.

To me this is amazing, particularly because of the highly interactive setting of our classes, which stimulate discussion between students. Combined, we get such lively discussions where everyone has a different perspective as a result of their own interests. The different backgrounds of me and my peers are, in this sense, a real asset to the programme.  

Opportunity to develop in a rapid pace

I can only say that I have never had the opportunity to develop myself at such a rapid pace as I currently can. It is certainly highly challenging, but for those interested in conducting research in sociology or media and arts studies, this is the programme for you.

I am a graduate from University College Utrecht where I majored in urban sociology and anthropology. This is a challenging and interdisciplinary bachelor’s program with an international focus. For my Master’s, I was looking for something similar: a program which offers more than ‘just’ the courses. This is what I found in the Research Master ‘Sociology of Culture, Media and the Arts’. 

Knowledge, skills and experiences outside of class

Erasmus University Rotterdam is the ideal environment for me to continue my education. So far, the program has introduced me to many talented people, offered me a stimulating work environment, and has given me high-quality education. It is everything that I expected and more.

I have always tried to get the most out of my studies and this research master allows me to do this. There are many extra dimensions to the master, allowing students to further explore their interests. For example, the traineeship and exchange enable me to put my knowledge and skills into practice while also creating experiences outside of class.

Favourite course

One of my favorite courses so far, has been ‘Consumer Culture’. In class we both discuss established social theories as well as newer papers and relate them to current day events. Everything that is discussed in class, you start detecting in your own life. I can’t watch an advertisement or TV show anymore without having an existential crisis about society. In addition, the small-scale and interactive class format creates optimal opportunity for learning and allows you to really get to know your peers. They become not only your study buddies, but also your friends.

Talking about the pressure

The program can be a bit intense at times. I have doubted whether I am doing ‘enough’, as all students are extremely motivated, performing well in class while also participating in extra projects. However, talking about this pressure with the other students made me realize that everyone is experiencing these feelings. Having open and honest conversations and learning to not compare myself, has helped release some of this pressure.

Enthusiasm for research

Before I started this Master’s, doing a PhD or having a future career in research had never crossed my mind. However, the program has boosted my confidence and sparked my enthusiasm for research. Over the past few months, I have realized that a career in academia might not be as unlikely for me as I once thought.

In addition, I have always wanted to become a professor, spreading my knowledge and having discussions with students. I also highly value active engaged citizenship and would like to make a positive impact on society. However, there are so many options and I have honestly not given my future too much thought.

For now, I am focused on making the most out of my degree and enjoying every step of the way. This master is giving me the skills and confidence that I am sure I will be prepared for the future and the complexities of life.