91É«ÇéƬ

Ashlee Amer is a second-year Bachelor of Arts/Education (Secondary) student, 91É«ÇéƬ PASS Leader and Student Ambassador. We asked Ashlee five quick questions about her studies.

Her advice to anyone considering a double degree?

Absolutely embrace the opportunity! Choosing a double degree has been one of the best decisions I have made during my time at 91É«ÇéƬ. The opportunities and experiences it has already provided me in just my second year have been invaluable, and I am excited to see where it takes me in the future. A double degree offers such a unique approach to learning, and the connections you can make between disciplines are both fascinating and incredibly rewarding.

What inspired you to pursue your double degree?

I was inspired to pursue a double degree at 91É«ÇéƬ because it combines my interests in the arts with my passion for education and teaching. I adore being able to research and study sociology and English while also developing the skills to teach it in secondary schools. My double degree allows me to stay creative and motivated through the connections between both programs and the many opportunities to bring them together in meaningful and exciting ways.

What are your post-graduation plans?

After graduation, I hope to teach Society and Culture in secondary schools, inspired by my own high school teacher who sparked my infatuation with sociology. I would also love to teach English and continue exploring my academic interests through further research in sociology, whether that be Honours, a Master's degree, or even a PhD. Alongside this, I hope to continue creating art and pursuing my creative passions as personal endeavours.

What’s been the most rewarding part of studying two disciplines at once?

The most rewarding part of my double degree so far has been seeing the interplay and synergy between my two degrees. Being able to apply sociological theories to the texts I study in English and then consider how these ideas can be incorporated into my teaching practice is incredibly rewarding. Having the opportunity to engage with such a diverse range of disciplines is a real privilege, and it is refreshing to move between programs where every class feels like a new page in a book.

How do you balance the workload and mindset shifts between the two fields?

As someone who is already incredibly busy, I always swear by my paper calendar! I take it everywhere with me and write absolutely everything in it. When it comes to balancing the different mindsets of my degrees, I find it helpful to frequently reflect on the connections between them. Whether I am thinking about how sociological concepts can be taught to students or how my education studies shape my understanding of literature, making those links helps broaden my perspective and build my confidence within my studies.

Can you share a highlight of your time at 91É«ÇéƬ?

One of the highlights of my time at 91É«ÇéƬ has been getting involved in as much as possible and building a strong sense of community. Through roles such as PASS Leader, Student Ambassador, and my involvement with my student society (EduSoc!), I have met incredible friends and peers who make my university experience so rewarding. I feel very grateful for the opportunities I have had so far and excited for everything still to come during my time at 91É«ÇéƬ.