Celebrating the HLC Graduations

Posted on: 25 August 2023 in 2023 posts

On the 21st of July our HLC graduates, dressed in their finest threads, donned caps, gowns and hoods to celebrate the conclusion of their degrees.

A unity of five such accomplished departments, comprising hundreds of multi-faceted and equally brilliant students, in Liverpool’s beautiful Philharmonic Hall. Friends and family, faculty and students, all travelling to be together on this most special of days.

Celebrations in the marquee were underway with drinks and canapes in the sunshine, graduates flooding every corner of Abercomby Square gardens to celebrate together to the tune of a beautiful jazz band. Marking the occasion with photos in front of the classic Georgian buildings and big ‘UOL2023’ lights, it was a beautiful day to celebrate their hard work.

Thesis of the year was awarded to Maria Spies, who travelled all the way from Australia to accept her award entitled ‘Managing Partnerships for Online Learning: An Institutional Work Perspective’. It was presented by Dr Anthony Edwards, Director of Centre for Higher Education Studies.

Rosie O’Grady, who studied a combined-honours of History and Irish Studies, spoke to some members of the Marketing team about her experience at the University of Liverpool and how she felt winning the George Huxley and Irish Studies prizes, presented by Professor Frank Shovlin of the Irish Studies department. Here’s what she had to say:

A) how do you feel winning the two prizes?

I am delighted to have won the George Huxley Prize and the Irish Studies Award. I have put a lot of time and work into my studies over the past couple of years and I feel honoured to have the department recognise and celebrate such achievements. 

B) What did you like about being part of the Irish Studies department?

I really like how diverse all the modules are; there are so many areas of history, politics, literature and culture available to explore and study. Learning Irish was something I never thought I would be afforded the opportunity to do and am determined to continue my educational journey in this area. 

Everyone in the department really invests in their students and create an environment for you to do well. All the lecturers are really approachable and are always willing to help you out. 

C) What are your hopes for the future?

My hopes and goal for the future is to work in the public Sector. Through the Irish Studies department I have applied for various internships within the Civil Service and at the British and Irish Embassies. 

D) Tell us some of your favourite things about Liverpool and what drew you to the university?

Liverpool is a vibrant and dynamic city, full of life and vitality! When I first visited Liverpool for the open day I instantly connected with the place and knew this is where I wanted to study. There are quite a few universities around the city so it is really student friendly and has a lively atmosphere along with its rich history and cultural heritage. 

To anyone thinking of applying I would definitely say visit the University and your prospective department. You will find everyone extremely helpful and friendly and willing to answer any questions you may have.

E) What would you tell someone just starting at the University of Liverpool?

The advice my brother gave me when starting University is if there is somewhere you need to be then be there. Whether this is attending a seminar, lecture or any other commitment, it is really important to show up in order to build up rapport with your fellow students and lecturers. Being reliable and committed are good qualities to have and the rest will follow.

Although it is bittersweet to bid farewell to our graduates, we know they will continue on and accomplish wonderful things in their careers. They are part of our institution, and will move through their lives making the University of Liverpool proud as accomplished alumni of the School of Histories, Languages and Cultures.