James Murray

James Murray, from Essex, graduated with an MA in Transatlantic Studies and International Relations in 2009.

Why did you choose to study at Dundee?

Dundee was the only university in the UK to offer such a direct degree in Transatlantic politics - a favourite subject of mine at the time. Plus I fancied a spell in Scotland.

What was the best thing about your course and why?

It was utterly unique and modular so I could pick and choose for the first two years what I wanted to do.

What information do applicants need to know before starting this course?

Get used to the Scottish MA system. I first arrived thinking all I would be studying was Politics, but I ended up with a bit of History, Politics, Geography, English and Philosophy!

What was your best learning experience and why?

I'd never had much exposure to Scotland before University, so everyday was a learning experience - especially as I was the only person to come to Dundee from my part of the country on my course. The best thing about the course was that the reading material was really interesting, and to this day I've not found some better written textbooks for History.

Did you take part in any student exchanges/work placements?

I spend my 2nd year studying abroad at North Carolina State University (Go Wolfpack!) It really was an eye-opening experience and I got to travel after I had completed my studies there.

What was your experience of settling into life in Dundee when you first arrived?

Settling in takes time. But as with any new experience you have to grit your teeth and get on with it. Making friends helps and being open to new ideas and suggestions helps too. I recommend lots of questions and a bit of courage!

What are you doing now?

After my MA I went on to set up two businesses and take a second degree. Now I run the operations for a department in the University called the Enterprise Gym where we put on free events for students based around teaching business enterprise.