Matthew Rees secured an internship at Dundee United

Matthew is a third-year MA Philosophy and Politics student at the University of Dundee.  The MA encourages students to make connections between different subjects, particularly within the Humanities and Social Sciences.

Matthew joined the University through clearing to study MA Philosophy and Psychology. However, Matthew found he was passionate about politics and, thanks to the flexibility of the MA, changed his degree early on to focus on his strengths and interests.

Humanities students have the opportunity to apply for an internship in their second year to gain valuable practical experience. Matthew decided to apply for an internship, and when asked about the application process, he said, ‘I particularly liked the application it gave me to the real world. To apply, I had to write a CV and cover letter. This really helped me to prepare for the future, whether that’s postgraduate study or employment.’

Matthew, who has a keen interest in sports coaching and football, secured an internship with Dundee United, a football club in Dundee. Speaking specifically about his internship responsibilities and what he learned, Matthew said, ‘I worked with the academy teams and helped to plan their sessions. It gave me an operational view of the business, helping me understand processes like the recruitment of players.

‘I had to produce a report following my internship which included different skills I learned and what I put into practice. This allowed me to reflect on the skills I had developed.’ 

‘The main thing I gained from my internship was insight. It’s very easy to see things from an outside perspective or from my own view, but I then found myself asking why things are organised in a certain way and are the processes efficient. The experience gave me a much better understanding of how businesses are run.’

When asked about his course and other practical elements, Matthew said, ‘One of the highlights so far has been getting involved in the Politics Society. Against strong competition, I was voted to be the new Politics Society Vice-President.

‘I suggested that we invite political figures to participate in Q&A sessions. I have conducted interviews and have really enjoyed the journalism side. 

‘My tip to get people talking is to ask the question and simply let them talk. When they’ve finished responding, I remember key pieces of information and will expand on them to prolong the conversation.’

Another highlight of Matthew’s course has been the transferable skills he has developed, which are valuable for various careers. Matthew explained, ‘My public speaking skills have grown so much that I can now stand in front of a lecture theatre and share my experience. The course has helped me understand what I’m good at and use it to my advantage. Speaking comes quite naturally to me, and I’ve been able to help others.’

Using his public speaking skills, Matthew shared his Dundee United internship experience at the University of Dundee's Humanities Expo in January 2025. The Expo brings together Humanities students from across the University for engaging career and employability events, conversations, and insights. 

Speaking about this experience, Matthew said, ‘It was a much bigger audience than I have spoken in front of before. I was asked questions which led the conversation. I knew what I was talking about, so I was confidently able to keep talking. This opportunity really helped boost my confidence with public speaking.’ 

When asked what advice he would give to prospective Humanities students, Matthew said, ‘Get involved and find out what interests you. Go to freshers, find out about societies and get involved in class discussions. It’s important to be a part of the community and get to know the people in your class, as it can help you develop in unexpected ways.’

The University of Dundee offers undergraduate Humanities courses in English, History, and Philosophy. With a Master of Arts undergraduate degree, one of these subjects can be combined with a variety of other subjects such as Psychology, Politics, or even a language.