Meet Kylea
Museum Studies MA
About Kylea
Current role: Keeper of History, Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums
How would you describe your time at Newcastle University?
My time at Newcastle University was incredibly stimulating. I had done my undergraduate degree there and stayed to do the MA as I enjoyed it so much. The lecturers on the course were very approachable.
What skills and knowledge have you found useful in your career?
I went straight into working in the sector on completion of my MA. I could therefore put the skills and knowledge into use. I have remained in touch with some of the lecturers and worked on some joint projects with them over the course of my career. One of my former lecturers mentored me for a period.
How did your degree help you find work in the sector?
The thinking and reading that I had done about the history of museums, in particular around their purpose, was incredibly helpful in understanding the approach I wanted to take in my career. The ways that I learned to evaluate interpretation and consider how different voices were incorporated informed my curatorial practice.
The course structure was a great mix of practical and theoretical. The trips to various organisations were helpful and the placement led to my eventual employment.
What advice would you give to students starting the course now?
It is in many ways a challenging time in the sector given the funding cutbacks, so I would suggest being fully aware of the competitive nature of the sector and all that that can entail for your career.
It was a rewarding course and has led me to a career that I thoroughly enjoy. No two days are the same.
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