Ellora Adams Jameel MA scholar
What would you recommend about studying for the MA in Islam in Contemporary Britain at Cardiff?
The Centre for the Study of Islam in Contemporary Britain is unique. It is inspiring to be in an environment that takes such a topical and sensitive subject seriously. Being a student here means you are at the forefront of a new field, where the situation is changing all the time and research is fresh and exciting. The public lecture series has been a real highlight of my learning experience too. We've had a range of talks from key scholars speaking on everything from human rights to comedy, as well as the first Muslim chaplain to the armed forces... and we're not yet half way through.
Being connected to both the Social Sciences and Religious Studies departments has provided a great breadth and depth of learning. I've also had the privilege to get to know a range of students, with different interests and from different backgrounds.
Not to mention, Cardiff is a great city! It's friendly, pretty, affordable and easy to get around but also a vibrant and cosmopolitan Capital.
What do you enjoy most about your course?
I am really enjoying the synthesis of different academic approaches. The course design brings together historical background with contemporary issues and means that you learn a lot of important context, as well as vital analytical skills. This is combined with a study of qualitative research which equips you with the tools to go out and conduct your own fieldwork. It's excellent preparation for continuing in academia as well as a wide variety of career paths. I am really looking forward to putting all that learning together in my dissertation and producing an original piece of research. Moreover, the course has helped me reflect on many of the community and development projects I've worked on in the past from a new angle. I really appreciate having my preconceptions challenged and feel lucky to be on such a well structured course, with supportive staff.
What is the best thing about your time as a student at Cardiff?
Aside from what goes on in the classroom, I think Cardiff is an ideal place to be a student. This city is a great place to test out all you learn, with lots of open minded and active people – there's plenty of opportunities to get involved with, and become a part of, different communities. Cardiff is an enriching and natural home for the Centre for the Study of Islam in Contemporary Britain.