Social Anthropology
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Adela Brianso
MA Social Anthropology and Politics
I find my degree really rewarding because both subjects overlap and complement each other well.
This year I’m taking courses in:
- Social Anthropology 1A and 1B
- Fundamentals of Social Anthropology
- Introduction to Politics & International Relations
- Democracy in Comparative Perspective
- Psychology
I enjoy reading ethnographies and exploring human social and cultural behaviour in Social Anthropology. I’m also really interested in current issues and international affairs so, for me, Social Anthropology and Politics is a great combination.
Usually you can study a combination of subjects in your first two years before specialising in your final years.
Social Anthropology 1A is an amazing course. Personally, l had no background in the subject so it was completely new for me. From personhood to gender, every lecture topic was mind blowing. It was like going into a story telling session rather than an ordinary lecture!
I even nominated one of my Social Anthropology lecturers for a EUSA Teaching Award. Not only is he passionate about what he teaches but he also genuinely cares about his students.
Don’t be afraid of reaching out for help if you need it. Lecturers will encourage you to take advantage of their office hours and are happy to get engaged students coming to them with questions. Everyone is genuinely there to help!
- Living in Edinburgh
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Edinburgh is the perfect size for me - not too small but small enough to recognise faces in the street.
There are a lot of international people, which brings a dynamic vibe to the city. The arts play a crucial role in Edinburgh and there’s such a huge cultural agenda that it’s difficult to miss out: festivals, opera, theatre, concerts, céilidhs...
You can go shopping around Princes Street or go for gorgeous walks in the countryside, only half an hour from the city. You can see the sea from most high buildings and the weather really isn’t that bad!
My halls are a 35 minute walk from George Square. It's a very nice house hosting 60 students.
There are four kitchens and a common room where we usually hang out. I have a wonderful American roommate and it has been a great way to get to know people outside of my course.
It can be challenging to settle in at first but there are loads of ways to get to know people really well and you’ll end up seeing the same faces everywhere!